Calgary to host 2027 North American Indigenous Games
Posted July 21, 2023 9:36 pm.
Calgary has won a bid to host the 2027 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG), marking a return to Alberta after more than 30 years.
The announcement of the 2027 NAIG host winner happened at the closing ceremonies of NAIG 2023 Friday in Halifax.
NAIG is expected to bring more than 5,000 participants from over 756 Nations around North America, who will compete in 16 sporting events.
“The opportunity to welcome Indigenous athletes, coaches, families and fans to Calgary for these games is a tremendous honour,” Calgary Jyoti Gondek said in a news release.
“We are committed to an inclusive, week-long celebration of sport and culture which will have a lasting impact on Indigenous athletes and Calgarians.”
Tourism Calgary set up the bid for NAIG, which was submitted in March, with the Tsuut’ina Nation, along with input from local Indigenous Nations, the city, and “many community partners.”
Tsuut’ina Nation Chief Roy Whitney says he is thrilled about the partnership with Calgary and the city being selected to host the games.
“We look forward to hosting Indigenous athletes and families on our beautiful lands at the foothills of the Rockies. We are confident that visitors will have an unforgettable experience, with elite competition and cultural activities throughout the Games,” he said.
Calgary was selected by the Indigenous Sport Council Alberta (ISCA), which also selected the city as a nominee in 2022.
Costs estimates for the games are between $15 – $20 million and are expected to make an economic impact of $40 million.
The games feature three age groups under 14, 16, and 19.
On top of all the participants expected, there will be 3,000 volunteers. In addition, the games will have a cultural showcase, but it’s not clear at this time what that will be.
Alberta last hosted the games 37 years ago.
