Get Ready for the 2026 Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games

Press Release

January 30, 2026

*The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is sharing this information on behalf of the Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games*

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba – After a 15‑year hiatus, the Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games are officially set to return in 2026, marking an exciting new chapter for Indigenous youth to connect through sport and culture.

Originally scheduled for summer 2025, the Games were postponed due to the widespread wildfires that impacted northern Manitoba.

During that time, the host Nations, Norway House Cree Nation and Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation, shifted focus to supporting evacuees throughout the summer months.

With recovery efforts now behind them, both Nations are once again preparing to welcome thousands of young athletes.

“Last summer, our priority was supporting families displaced by the wildfires, and our Nation came together in a time of great need,” stated Norway House Cree Nation Chief Larson Anderson. “Now, we look forward to shifting that same strength and unity toward welcoming young athletes from across Manitoba.”

“From lacrosse to volleyball, Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation has a proud and storied history in summer sports,” said Chief E.J. Fontaine of Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation. “I encourage Indigenous youth from across Manitoba to get involved in the 2026 Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games. This is a great opportunity to see more of your home province and to meet new friends. The people of Sagkeeng look forward to welcoming thousands of athletes and visitors to our beautiful territory this summer and witnessing them write the next chapter.”

First founded in 1999 in Opaskwayak Cree Nation, the Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games have grown into an important gathering that connects Indigenous youth from across the province. The last Games were held in 2011, but with the support of major partners, including the Province of Manitoba and Manitoba Hydro, this summer marks the Games long awaited return.

The multi‑sport event will feature a wide range of activities, including archery, 3×3 basketball, volleyball, canoeing, softball, track, soccer, athletics, ball hockey, and golf. Youth participants can register either as teams or as individuals.

The 2026 Games will take place in two host Nations:

• Norway House Cree Nation: July 8 to 12, 2026
• Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation: August 10 to 15, 2026

As many as 3000 athletes under the age of 17, along with coaches and managers, are expected to register for the games from across Manitoba.

“Sport and physical activity are foundational to improving health outcomes for First Nations citizens, particularly our youth,” said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “The Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games exemplify what SCO’s Movement is Medicine initiative is about—First Nations-led approaches that strengthen wellness, confidence, and leadership. By bringing youth together from across Manitoba, these Games help build stronger Nations, healthier communities, and a future grounded in connection, resilience, and pride.”

“The Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games continue to open doors for our young people, especially those from northern Nations who often face the greatest barriers to sport and recreation,” said MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “These Games are an investment in our youth.”

We look forward to celebrating together, as the Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games make their long‑anticipated return.

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