Registration is now underway for the 2026 Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games, which will see Norway House Cree Nation serve as the host for the first phase of the competition from July 8-12, 2026.
This event marks a significant return for the games, which are being held for the first time since 2011. The games, administered by the Manitoba Aboriginal Sports & Recreation Council, are expected to draw up to 3,000 youth athletes under the age of 17 from across the province. Following the events in Norway House, the second phase will take place in Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation from August 10-15, 2026.
The games were originally planned for 2025 but were postponed following a severe wildfire season in northern Manitoba. During that emergency, Norway House Cree Nation provided shelter for approximately 4,500 evacuees from neighbouring communities, far exceeding the 1,000 people originally anticipated. Under the leadership of Chief Larson Anderson, the community has now shifted its focus to hosting the upcoming athletic competition.
To accommodate youth athletes, organizers have introduced new age divisions for 14-and-under and 17-and-under participants. The schedule for the Norway House phase includes a wide range of sports such as badminton, volleyball, beach volleyball, 3×3 basketball, soccer, canoe, softball, and wrestling, as well as 10,000 metre foot races and traditional York Boat races.
As part of the preparations for the return of the games, communities have invested in new facilities. Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation, led by Chief E.J. Fontaine, has constructed a regulation-sized track as a permanent legacy asset for their community. More information on the event and registration details can be found at the official website for the 2026 Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games.
