The Labrador Winter Games

The Labrador Winter Games are an athletic competition unlike any other. Fans of the Winter Olympics can rejoice at this event held every three years in the province of Labrador, Canada. In what can only be described as the “Olympics of the North”, these games celebrate Labrador’s rich heritage. Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and prepare to dive into what makes the Labrador Winter Games such a big deal!

History of the Games

The Labrador Winter Games came to fruition in 1983, bringing people together from all over the Labrador area. Each city in the province of Labrador sends 17 athletes and a coordinator ready to compete in different tests and sporting events. Events include items such as snowshoe races, badminton, dog team races, and more.

Pushing athletes to their limits, the games showcase the best of the locals in the area. However, unlike most other competitions, these games focus on friendly competition, giving them the nickname “friendship games”. More than 300 individuals participate in the Labrador Winter Games, making it a must-see during your visit there.

Why Do They Matter?

To put it simply, these games bring together the communities. The area of Labrador is immense and spacious, each community is separated by hundreds of miles at times. The games allow Labradorians to get together and celebrate their unique culture amongst themselves, and the world.

It isn’t just about the friendly competition either. The games honor the way of life, including activities such as snowshoeing, and other day-to-day skills that have been a part of the community for generations. Finally, the festivities create a sense of pride and joy that sticks with each community and the province of Labrador as a whole. All in all, the winter games are a great way to gather and show some community spirit.

The 2023 Labrador Winter Games

The 2023 Games were held in March and marked the 40th anniversary of the Labrador Winter Games. Not only were the athletes supported, but the frontline workers of the COVID-19 pandemic were also celebrated, making it a heartfelt time in the Labrador area. The games didn’t disappoint either! Tough competitions–friendly, but tough–were on full display, and after a week of competition, Labrador City took home the title of community winner.

Exciting Times Ahead

There are several changes coming to the Labrador Winter Games, including the first female chairperson, Pauline Russell. She will be the chairperson for the upcoming 2026 games, which have already received more funding than games of the past. The funding will ensure that the games continue to thrive for years to come, supplying entertainment for those who watch them.

On to 2026

The next games will be held in 2026, and one thing is certain: it is an event you cannot afford to miss. With the additional funding, expanded events, and the first-ever female chairperson, these next games are going to be massive. It doesn’t matter if you’re a local, or just looking for a new place to visit, the Labrador Winter Games will provide you with entertainment beyond comparison.

Labrador, Canada

The area of Labrador is known for its stunning coastlines, icebergs, whales, and more. Even if you aren’t able to make the games, stop on by to discover a hidden gem in Canada. There are so many things to do in the area, such as visiting the Cape Spear Lighthouse or going on a local dog team tour. Hiking, fishing, and kayaking are other popular activities, with several lakes within the Newfoundland and Labrador area, including Gosling Lake, right near our property, Gosling Lake Campground.