Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo To Host 2028 Alberta Summer Games

(May 27 - Fort McMurray, Alberta) The 2028 Alberta Summer Games are officially heading to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo! Thousands of young athletes aged 11 to 16 from across the province will compete against as individuals and teams in Alberta's largest multi-sport event. The games were last hosted in Fort McMurray in 1985, but the region has hosted the Alberta Winter Games in 1992 and 2018. The games are expected to draw about 2,600 participants and coaches plus generate strong economic and tourism activity across the region.

The province of Alberta are providing a $1.15-million grant to the host society to support the planning and delivery of the 2028 Alberta Summer Games. This funding helps to cover key costs such as staffing, transportation, promotions and event delivery, ensuring athletes and visitors can experience top-tier games.

“The Alberta Games are an important competition, offering young athletes the chance to compete at a provincial level and reach their full potential. We’re looking forward to welcoming the visitors, energy and enthusiasm to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo in 2028.”

Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport

Baseball, rugby, swimming, mountain biking and beach volleyball will be among the headlining sports where athletes will qualify through zone competitions held across the province.

“This region has a long and successful history as major hosts, and we’re again pleased to welcome athletes, and everyone associated with the Alberta Summer Games, to our community in 2028. We thank Minister Boitchenko and the Ministry of Tourism and Sport for putting their trust in us, and to the 2028 Alberta Summer Games Bid Committee for its efforts in securing an event that will bring positive social and local economic impact to the region.”

Sandy Bowman, mayor, Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo

Ainsworth Wisdom is the bid chair and director of sponsorship and promotion locally. More announcements on venues and volunteers will be made closer to the games which will follow the 2026 edition of the Games set to run July 16th - 19th in Strathcona County.

“As bid chairperson, I have witnessed firsthand the unifying power of sport and its ability to bring communities together. Hosting the Alberta Summer Games will create a lasting legacy for Fort McMurray, inspiring athletes, youth and families for generations to come. We are proud, prepared and excited to welcome athletes and visitors from across Alberta to our vibrant and resilient community.”

Ainsworth Wisdom, bid chair and director of sponsorship and promotion, 2028 Alberta Summer Games Bid Committee