Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games Unveils Logo and Brand Identity
Excitement for the Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games reached a new high today with the unveiling of its logo and brand identity. Designed to embody the spirit of connection, tradition, and youthful energy, these visual elements set the stage for a memorable celebration of circumpolar culture and competition.
The Logo: Honouring Tradition and Unity
The official logo for the Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games incorporates the iconic Trifoil symbol, a hallmark of the Arctic Winter Games since their inception. The three interlocking rings of the Trifoil represent the core pillars of the Arctic Winter Games: athletic competition, cultural exhibition, and social interaction among circumpolar peoples. Encircling the Trifoil is an outer ring, symbolizing the unity of circumpolar communities.
“This logo is a powerful representation of who we are as northerners,” said Tracey Bilsky, President of the Whitehorse 2026 Host Society. “It respects the history and significance of the Arctic Winter Games’ trifoil, valuing sport, culture, and social exchange, while recognizing who we are now. The colors reinvigorate the brand and highlight what we treasure in our territory."
The Snowflake Graphic: A Kaleidoscope of Culture
The seven-pointed snowflake graphic stands as a distinct visual element and represents the kaleidoscope theme of these Games. The snowflake’s interlocking lines and geometric patterns reflect the merging of diverse cultures, languages, and experiences, and align with the tagline, “What We’re Made Of.”
Each of the snowflake’s seven points is surrounded by two diamonds, symbolizing the 14 First Nations of the Yukon Territory. The intricate design includes vibrant colours—rich navy blues, deep teals, and golden yellows—that evoke the landscapes of the Arctic, from the Yukon River to the midnight sun and moonlit mountain ranges.
“Seeing the kaleidoscope theme brought to life through the snowflake brings a unique and fresh perspective to the Arctic Winter Games,” said Peter Johnston, Grand Chief of the Council of Yukon First Nations and Director of the Whitehorse 2026 Host Society. “It shows how progressive we are here in Whitehorse and is an excellent start for us to build out the theme to many other parts of the Games.”
A Vision for Expanding Creativity
The kaleidoscope theme will expand beyond this single snowflake element. It will be used to create additional visual graphics including sport icons, landscapes, and respectful representations of northern animals.
A Vision for Connection and Engagement
The Arctic Winter Games International Committee also celebrated the logo and visual for their ability to resonate with communities across the circumpolar world.
“The logo and snowflake graphic capture the energy and inclusivity of the Games very well,” said John Rodda, President of the Arctic Winter Games International Committee. “It’s a modern representation of what the Arctic Winter Games stand for—bringing people together through sport, culture, and connection.”
The logo and snowflake graphic will be showcased throughout the Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games, from signage to digital platforms, creating a unified and memorable visual identity.
Fun Facts about the Arctic Winter Games and Whitehorse 2026
- The 2026 Arctic Winter Games are scheduled to take place in Whitehorse, Yukon, from March 8 to March 15, 2026.
- A Rich History: The Arctic Winter Games were founded in 1969 to provide a forum where athletes from the circumpolar North could compete on their own terms and turf.
- Cultural Celebration: The Games are not just about sports; they also celebrate the unique cultures of the Arctic, featuring cultural participants from each delegation who will collaborate and showcase performances throughout the week of the Games.
- International Participation: Athletes participate in the Games from regions including Alaska, Northern Alberta, Yukon, Nunavut, Nunavik, Northwest Territories, Greenland and the cultural region of Sápmi with athletes from northern Finland, Sweden and Norway.
- Whitehorse as Host: Whitehorse has a history of hosting the Arctic Winter Games, with the upcoming 2026 event marking another opportunity to showcase the city's commitment to sports and culture.
- Volunteer Spirit: The success of the Games relies on the dedication of volunteers, with thousands contributing to create a memorable experience for all participants. 2,000 volunteers will be needed for the Games in Whitehorse in 2026.
- Traditional Sports: Unique events such as the One-Foot High Kick and Knuckle Hop are featured, highlighting traditional skills and entertaining spectators.
- Environmental Stewardship: The Games emphasize sustainability, reflecting the Arctic's commitment to preserving its unique environment for future generations.
For more information about the Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games, visit www.AWG2026.org.
Media Contact
Larissa Winslade
Marketing, Sponsorship and Communications Coordinator, Whitehorse 2026 Arctic Winter Games Host Society
larissa.winslade@awg2026.org | 867-332-1948
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