Joint Press Release from the 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society and the Arctic Winter Games International Committee
The 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society and the Arctic Winter Games International Committee are excited to announce the successful completion of a significant visit to the City of Whitehorse, the proud host of the upcoming Arctic Winter Games in 2026.
During this visit, representatives from the International Committee engaged in productive meetings with the dedicated staff of the 2026 AWG Host Society. Together, they discussed the preparations underway for the Games and explored the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for participants, coaches, and supporters from across the circumpolar north.
A highlight of the visit included tours of some of the venues that will showcase the athletic talents of our northern youth. These facilities will play a crucial role in fostering a spirit of camaraderie and competition.
The visit also included a warm reception hosted by the 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society. The event brought together key stakeholders, including Amanda Leas, Chief of Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, Linda Moen, Councilor with Kwanlin Dün First Nation, Richard Mostyn, Minister of Community Services, Brendan Hanley, Yukon’s Member of Parliament, Laura Cabott, Mayor of Whitehorse, and numerous lead volunteers. This gathering underscored the strong community support for the Games and the collaborative spirit that will ensure their success.
“We are thrilled with the progress being made as we prepare for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games,” said Tracey Bilsky, President of the 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society. “The enthusiasm from the local community and our partners is palpable, and we are committed to making these Games a memorable celebration of culture and sport.”
“The Arctic Winter Games is more than competition; it is about unity, culture, and showcasing the talents of our northern youth,” added John Rodda, President of the Arctic Winter Games International Committee. “We are delighted to work alongside the Host Society and the City of Whitehorse to ensure that this event reflects the rich heritage of the Arctic.”
The 2026 Arctic Winter Games promises to be a landmark event, highlighting the spirit of the North and the resilience of its people. As we move closer to the Games, both committees remain focused on creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Megan Cromarty
General Manager, Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society
megan.cromarty@awg2026.org | (867) 334-8103
other Recent updates
Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games and Northwestel Unveil Official Mascot: Michael Jay
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24, 2025
Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games and Northwestel Unveil Official Mascot: Michael Jay
WHITEHORSE, YT — The Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society, in partnership with Northwestel, proudly unveiled Michael Jay as the official mascot of the 2026 Games during a celebration at Northwestel’s new retail store at Chu Níikwän Place.
Michael Jay, a spirited character from the popular northern TV series Northern Tails—which follows life in the boreal forest—has officially been named Games Ambassador. After completing a rigorous “Mascot Bootcamp,” captured in a fun and fast-paced video produced by Shot in the Dark Productions, Michael Jay is now ready to bring the energy and enthusiasm of the Arctic Winter Games to communities across the North.
As the presenting sponsor of the AWG mascot program, Northwestel hosted today’s launch event, which included opening remarks, Michael Jay look-a-like cupcakes by Baked Cafe, digital activations, and a live reveal of Michael Jay. The celebration also marked the grand opening of Northwestel’s modern new retail space, designed with community, accessibility, and sustainability at its core. Visitors can enjoy an open concept layout with private consultation tables, interactive demo areas, and on-site parking.
“Michael Jay represents the playfulness, courage, and heart of the Arctic Winter Games,” said Tracey Bilsky, President of the Whitehorse 2026 Host Society. “Thanks to Northwestel’s generous support, we’re able to bring this character to life and share the Games’ spirit with families, participants, and fans throughout the region.”
As a Legacy Sponsor of the Games, Northwestel has deep ties to the AWG movement. In addition to sponsoring the mascot program, they are also the presenting sponsor of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, underscoring their long-standing commitment to youth, culture, and community connection across the North.
“We’re really excited to partner with the Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games as a Legacy Sponsor and Arctic Champion of the Games,” said Curtis Shaw, President of Northwestel. “Michael Jay is more than a mascot—he’s a symbol of northern creativity and community. As we celebrate this exciting milestone at our new retail space, we’re also celebrating the spirit of the Games and the deep connections that bring us together across the North.”
Want to meet Michael Jay in person?
The mascot will be touring Yukon and the surrounding regions leading up to the Games. Community groups, events, and schools can book an appearance by visiting www.AWG2026.org/culture.
Enter for a chance to win a 65” TV!
Catch Michael Jay in action? Don’t miss your chance to win a 65” LG Nano 75 TV—generously donated by Northwestel! Just snap a photo with Michael Jay and post it to Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #MeetMichaelJay
About the Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games
The Arctic Winter Games are the world’s largest multi-sport and cultural event for youth from the circumpolar North. Taking place in Whitehorse from March 8–15, 2026, the Games will welcome more than 2,000 participants from across Northern Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Sápmi, and other circumpolar regions to compete in 20 sports and showcase their cultures and traditions.
About Northwestel
Northwestel is the largest telecommunications provider in Canada’s North, serving 97 communities across the Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, British Columbia, and Alberta. Beginning in 2020, Northwestel’s Every Community Project significantly improved broadband services for northern residents, governments, and businesses using the latest fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) and Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technologies. Now, over 95% of homes in Yukon and NWT have access to high-speed, unlimited fibre-powered internet, either fibre to the home or fibre to the neighbourhood. Northwestel is proud to provide service on the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples across Canada’s North. In 2024, Sixty North Unity, a consortium of Indigenous organizations, announced its plans to purchase Northwestel and make it a wholly Indigenous-owned company, which will make it the largest Indigenous-owned telecommunications company in the world.
Media Contacts:
Paolo Gallina
Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games
867-332-1463
paolo.gallina@AWG2026.org
Northwestel Media Relations
867-455-4209
media@nwtel.ca
Megan Cromarty on the CBC Yukon Morning show
Our General Manager sat down with CBC on June 5, 2025 to chat all things AWG2026 — from volunteers and planning milestones to what’s coming next! Listen to the full interview on CBC On Demand:
#whatwearemadeof #AWG2026
VIDEO: 2026 Arctic Winter Games host society gets new home in downtown Whitehorse. Watch the news coverage highlighting our new office space!
https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6787556
Announcing the AWG 2026 50/50 Raffle!
Get ready to win big while supporting the Arctic Winter Games Whitehorse 2026! Our online 50/50 raffle gives you the chance to take home cash while helping us deliver an unforgettable celebration of sport and culture.
🎟 Tickets are only available online at Rafflebox. You must be 19+ and a Yukon resident (your credit card must match a Yukon postal code). Per our license, printed tickets will be mailed out after the raffle closes. You will receive an email ticket as proof of purchase immediately after your purchase.
Draw Date: May 25, 2025
Location: AWG 2026 Host Society Office
Time: Join us online for a live draw at 12:00pm
Funds raised will go towards creating op for Northern athletes and communities. Don't miss out - grab your tickets TODAY! #whatwearemadeof
Yukon Gaming License #2025-038