Turn on the TV and get ready to cheer. The 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games are almost here! 

The Games are held every four years. This year, they take place in northern Italy. The city of Milan and the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo will welcome athletes from around the world in February. It’s the third time Italy has hosted the Winter Games. 

Proud history

The first Winter Olympics were held in Chamonix, France in 1924. Sixteen countries and 304 athletes took part. Canada sent 12 athletes – a men’s hockey team and two skaters.