County of Forty Mile to host 2026 Southern Alberta Summer Games

Posted on March 19, 2026 by Ryan Dahlman

By Kaylee Hurt
Southern Alberta Summer Games

The Southern Alberta Summer Games, the longest-running annual multi-sport event in Alberta, will return to the County of Forty Mile in 2026 — marking a milestone 30 years since the region last hosted the Games in 1996.

First held in Pincher Creek in 1970, the Southern Alberta Summer Games were created to provide athletes of all ages, skill levels, and sporting backgrounds with the opportunity to compete in regional competition. Over the past five decades, the Games have grown exponentially and now welcome participants ranging in age from six to 90 years old, reflecting the inclusive spirit that has defined the event since its inception.

Each year, a different Southern Alberta community hosts the Games. From Wednesday, July 8 to Saturday, July 11, 2026, the County of Forty Mile will welcome more than 2,000 athletes representing 13 regions across Southern Alberta for four days of competition, camaraderie, and community celebration.

Events will be hosted throughout the Town of Bow Island, Village of Foremost, Forty Mile Park, and the Hamlet of Burdett, with soccer competitions taking place in the Town of Raymond. Organizers anticipate around 22 sporting and cultural events.

The 2026 Games will feature an impressive lineup of activities, including 3KM, 5KM, and 10KM road races, 3-on-3 basketball, clout archery, badminton, ball hockey, baseball, beach volleyball, barrel racing, boccia, cornhole, cribbage, darts, e-sports, golf, frisbee golf, photography, swimming, shooting events, soccer, and track and field.

Registration for athletes opens Monday, May 11, and closes Wednesday, June 11. Organizers encourage participants of all ages and abilities to take part in this historic return of the Games to the County of Forty Mile.

With a legacy spanning more than 55 years, the 2026 Southern Alberta Summer Games promise to deliver four days of competition, community pride, and unforgettable memories across the region.