Fairbanks, Alaska selected to host 2028 Arctic Winter Games

The Arctic Winter Games International Committee announced that Fairbanks, Alaska will host the 2028 Arctic Winter Games, restoring the traditional two‑year cycle after the Northwest Territories withdrew its bid in 2024. The NWT asked to be considered for the 2030 games, citing reduced volunteer capacity, accommodation shortfalls and ongoing pandemic recovery.

Fairbanks previously hosted the Games in 1982, 1988 and 2014 and submitted its successful bid in April 2026. AWGIC President John Rodda said, “This was an extraordinary proposal from the Fairbanks community at a pivotal moment in the Arctic Winter Games movement.” NWT Minister Vince McKay noted the decision was “not feasible” given current challenges. The Games will involve athletes from Alaska, northern Canadian provinces and territories, Greenland, Nunavik, Nunavut, Sapmi and Yukon, and all participants will need valid passports for international travel.