Special activities and initiatives — 2017 Canada Summer Games

Torch Relay

Map of Winnipeg 2017 torch Relay

The Canada Games Torch was renamed the Roly McLenahan Torch in 1985, in honour of one of the original members of the Canada Games Council. He demonstrated a lifelong commitment to youth and encouraged their participation in sport.

The Manitoba Hydro Torch Relay for the 2017 Canada Summer Games is designed to carry the excitement of the Canada Games to different locations around Manitoba and to Kenora, Ontario (site of the rowing competition for the 2017 Canada Summer Games).

Parliament Hill in Ottawa is where every Canada Games Torch Relay begins and this year is no different. The torch was lit on June 6, 2017 to mark the beginning of its journey. The Manitoba Hydro Torch Relay will then go to Steinbach, Manitoba (MB). From there it will make its way to Kenora, Ontario, Morden (MB), Gillam/Fox Lake Cree Nation (MB), Thompson (MB), The Pas/Opaskwayak Cree Nation (MB), Dauphin (MB), Gimli (MB), Sagkeeng/Great Falls (MB), and Brandon (MB).

Lastly, the torch will reach its final destination in the host city of Winnipeg. The Manitoba Hydro Torch Relay will end with a celebration at Manitoba Hydro Place on July 26, 2017. The torch will then be used to light the cauldron during the Opening Ceremony of the 2017 Canada Summer Games on July 28, 2017 at the

Opening Ceremony

The 2017 Canada Summer Games Opening Ceremony will take place Friday, July 28 from 19:00 to 21:00 CT at the MTS Centre in Winnipeg. The ceremony will showcase the vibrant culture of the city of Winnipeg and the province of Manitoba, as well as celebrate 50 years of the Canada Games and 150 years of Confederation! What an exciting way to set the tone for two weeks of competition! There will be performances from Serena Ryder, Winnipeg’s own Brothers’ Landreth, and Quebec’s Coeur de Pirate!

Closing Ceremony

The 2017 Canada Summer Games Closing Ceremony will take place August 13, 2017 from 14:00 to 16:00 CT at Investors Group Field in Winnipeg. The ceremony will mark the end of the 26th Canada Games, celebrate the accomplishments of the athletes and the culture of Manitoba, and pass the torch to the 2019 Canada Winter Games which will be held in Red Deer, Alberta. There will be performances from Fred Penner, fiddler Sierra Noble, and country music artist Brett Kissel.

Canada Games Festival

Everyone will be able to enjoy some of Canada’s best art and entertainment when they’re not cheering at the sport venues. They can do so during the 2017 Canada Summer Games Festival at The Forks in downtown Winnipeg. 

The Forks is located at the meeting of the Assiniboine and Red rivers. The festival will feature a different province or territory each day that it runs. Music, concerts, dancing, fireworks, and cultural activities all in the hub of Manitoba’s capital to celebrate 50 years of the Canada Games! 

Niibin (Mascot)

Mascot

Meet Niibin, a creature created by the summer heat. Inspired by a grade 3 student, Niibin’s name is the Anishinaabe word for ‘it is summer.’ Niibin can’t wait to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Canada Games. Niibin will be around all the action of the games, whether it’s at sporting events, the Festival, or medal ceremonies! Niibin is excited to celebrate his favourite season with all the athletes and spectators!

Canada Games Activity Challenge

The Canada Games Activity Challenge helped children build fundamental movement skills and confidence, preparing them for a lifetime of participation in activity, recreation and sport. Elementary school teachers received weekly emails preparing them with video demonstrations, and tips for fun, and adaptive activities in the classroom. There were also activities to do at home so students could involve their parents and their friends!

Flag Relay Community Celebration featuring the Canada Games flag

50th Anniversary Flag Relay and Community Celebrations

Beginning in Quebec City on February 11, 2017, the Canada Games flag will travel across Canada, relaying back to the past host communities! The passion of the Canada Games will be re-ignited in past host communities and will spread the spirit of the Canada Games throughout the country, specifically in the 21 communities visited. The relay will have its grand finale at the Opening Ceremony of the Games in Winnipeg on July 28, 2017

Page details

Date modified: