Residents in Hay River, Northwest Territories, can now gather at the local library to watch live broadcasts of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. The Hay River Centennial Library began hosting live‑streamed Olympic viewing sessions on Feb. 4, 2026, giving people a place to cheer on Team Canada together.
The library is participating in the national CBC/Radio‑Canada public‑library partnership to screen Olympic coverage (including streams available on CBC Gem) during its regular open hours. The initiative provides high‑definition access to events for residents who may have limited home bandwidth or want a cost‑free, communal viewing space.
Curling fans can drop in for specific matches — for example, Canada’s mixed‑doubles opener against Czechia aired on Feb. 4, 2026 — and follow other events throughout the day. Italy (Central European Time) is eight hours ahead of Mountain Standard Time, so many evening medal events in Cortina/Milano take place around midday in Hay River, which suits lunchtime or afternoon gatherings.
Local organizers say the watch parties are a way to bring the town together after difficult years of extreme weather and evacuations — including a major flood in 2022 and wildfire evacuations and disruptions in 2023 and into 2025. The screenings offer a free, welcoming public space where neighbours can relax, meet and feel connected to the rest of the country during the winter season.
If you plan to attend, check the Hay River Centennial Library venue page for hours and event information.
