Information sent on behalf of Lowa Beebe, Chair, 2027 International Indigenous Games & Gathering Host Committee.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 20, 2026
Official Announcement:
2027 International Indigenous Games & Gathering
An International Indigenous-Led Gathering of Sport, Culture, and Unity
Treaty 6, Treaty 7 & Treaty 8 Territories – The Host Committee officially announces the 2027 International Indigenous Games & Gathering taking place on July 25–31, 2027, with events and activities across the Edmonton region and Southern Alberta (Calgary area). The Host Committee is an Indigenous-led organizing body working in partnership with host Nations, communities, and international Indigenous partners.
The 2027 International Indigenous Games & Gathering will welcome Indigenous Nations from around the world to gather on Treaty territory to share sport, culture, ceremony, and knowledge. The event represents a global Indigenous-led platform rooted in international cooperation, cultural diplomacy, and youth empowerment.
The Games and Gathering build on decades of Indigenous-to-Indigenous international organizing, tracing back to early global efforts that emerged in the 1970s through Indigenous leadership forums, including the World Council of Indigenous Peoples. This long-standing vision continues today through renewed Indigenous leadership and global participation.
The event is expected to host thousands of athletes, cultural practitioners, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, artists, youth, and international delegates, representing Indigenous Nations from multiple global regions.
A Collective Hosting Approach
The 2027 International Indigenous Games & Gathering will be guided by a host leadership model grounded in Indigenous sovereignty, cooperation, and shared responsibility. The Host Committee will work collaboratively with Treaty 6, Treaty 7, and Treaty 8 regions in Alberta, as well as Indigenous Nations, municipalities, and international Indigenous partners.
“When we first envisioned international Indigenous Games in the 1970s, the dream was unity — Indigenous Nations standing together through sport and culture,” said International Chief Dr. Wilton Littlechild, Founder and Ambassador. “The 2027 International Indigenous Games & Gathering carries that original vision forward, honouring our ancestors while building pathways for future generations.”
“With the 2027 North American Indigenous Games no longer proceeding, this moment creates space for something broader and more inclusive,” said Chief Troy Knowlton, President of the Blackfoot Confederacy. “This new Gathering allows us to welcome Indigenous Nations from around the world to our territory; to share their sports, cultures, and ways of life, and to do so on our own terms, guided by Indigenous leadership and vision.”
“It is an honour for our Nations to welcome Indigenous Peoples from across the world to our territories,” said Lowa Beebe, Chair, 2027 International Indigenous Games & Gathering Host Committee. “This Gathering reflects our core teachings: unity, generosity, excellence, and respect, while uplifting our youth and strengthening Indigenous relationships across borders.”
A Global Celebration of Indigenous Sport, Culture, and Knowledge
The 2027 International Indigenous Games & Gathering will include:
- Traditional and contemporary Indigenous sports
- Cultural showcases, ceremonies, and artistic exchange
- Youth programming, arts festivals, and knowledge forums
- Events hosted across Southern Alberta and the Edmonton region
The Gathering affirms that sport and culture are inherent Indigenous rights and aligns with the spirit and intent of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action related to Indigenous sport, youth, health, and cultural revitalization.
Next Steps
Planning is underway in collaboration with Treaty 6, 7 & 8 areas, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, host municipalities, and international Indigenous partners. Additional announcements regarding venues, programming, sponsorship opportunities, athlete participation, and volunteer engagement will be released soon.
Media Contact:
Melissa Arcand, Communications Team
2027 International Indigenous Games & Gathering
403-437-9394
