Get ready to rally behind Team USA with your fellow Utahns, because Salt Lake City is rolling out the communal carpet in anticipation of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. According to a recent announcement from Mayor Erin Mendenhall, Salt Lake City will kick off a grand watch party starting February 6, welcoming families, athletes, and fans to join in the festivities, which are set to span over five weeks.
This community event, touted as a warm-up to the city's hosting the 2034 Winter Games, will boast giant screens live-streaming Olympic and Paralympic events and feature an array of local food trucks, family programming, bands, and performances. In between the athletic action, attendees can expect to rub elbows with Olympians, Paralympians, and special guest speakers. The city has ensured there will be warming areas for when temperatures drop, as mentioned by Salt Lake City.
Mendenhall emphasized the importance of Salt Lake City's Olympic legacy in a statement, inviting residents of any city near and far to celebrate with us. The event is seen as a bridge connecting the excitement of past games to the promise of those in 2034, offering a glimpse into the future for young fans and aspiring athletes.
Catherine Raney Norman, chair of the Athletes’ Commission for the OCOG, highlighted the cultural relevance of the event, stating, “What an opportunity we have to be supported by such a great community helping build a culture of sport, embracing values that we all share,” as obtained by Salt Lake City. With plans on the horizon, residents can also look forward to engaging with the city's efforts to solidify the lasting impact of the 2034 Games, with a Request for Information soon to be released that aims to incorporate community feedback and initiatives.
