The City of St. Albert kicked off June is Recreation and Parks Month with exciting news for the community. In 2029, over 1,000 athletes and coaches will be visiting St. Albert to participate in the Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games.

In 2025, City Council approved a financial commitment of $400,000 towards hosting the Games dependent on a successful bid. During the June 2, 2026, City Council meeting, Mayor Scott Olivieri announced that St. Albert was chosen by Special Olympics Alberta as the successful host city for the upcoming Summer Games. The 2029 Games will use the City’s recreation and community facilities and run from July 13 to 15. The announcement was attended by Special Olympics representatives as well as former and current local athletes.

“Our City is honoured to host such an important and empowering event. It is a privilege to be invited to celebrate the excellence and dedication that these athletes, coaches and families exemplify. We hope that during their time in our city, our guests will experience many of the outstanding things St. Albert has to offer. I encourage residents to take part however they can when the time comes—whether through volunteering or attending the events. We are proud to be welcoming the participants and supporters to our community,” says Mayor Scott Olivieri.

“Special Olympics Alberta is thrilled to work alongside the City of St. Albert to host the 2029 Provincial Summer Games. Together, we are committed to delivering an outstanding athlete-centered Games experience while showcasing the community spirit, hospitality, and amenities that make St. Albert such a special place. I look forward to welcoming participants from across the province to experience all that the city has to offer,” says Jill Moore, VP, Sport, Special Olympics Alberta.

The Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games are held every four years, with the most recent Games held in Grande Prairie, Alta., in 2025. The Summer Games, which have been running since 1980, encompass 10 sports: 10 pin bowling, basketball, athletics, golf, bocce, rhythmic gymnastics, soccer, softball, powerlifting and swimming.

St. Albert is no stranger to hosting Special Olympics events. In 2012 the City hosted the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games. St. Albert partnered with Jasper to provide the alpine skiing venue. The Games’ success was praised by visitors from across the country, noting St. Albert’s excellent facilities and dedicated volunteers.

For more information, visit the Special Olympics Alberta website.

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