Cheers echoed across the Esplanade Tranquille on Sunday as Montrealers gathered downtown to take part in the Team Canada FanFest, a two-day public celebration of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
The festival, held Feb. 21-22, offered live broadcasts of Olympic competitions, interactive winter sport activities, and scheduled appearances by Canadian athletes.
Families and fans of all ages participated in public skating, curling demonstrations, speed skating programs, and hockey activities, while others explored Olympic-themed displays.
Spectators followed events streamed directly from Italy on large outdoor screens.
Canadian Olympians made in-person appearances at the event, giving attendees the chance to meet athletes and engage with the Games up close.
Sunday’s lineup included ice hockey player Mélodie Daoust, figure skaters Joannie Rochette and Andrew Poje, and freestyle skier Alex Bilodeau, among others.
Saturday and Sunday’s activities included long-track and short-track speed skating, curling, hockey, skateboarding, and public skating.
Sunday also featured the Men’s Gold Medal ice hockey game between Canada and the United States, the All-Star Skate with Team Canada Olympians, and the festival’s closing ceremony.
Organizers described the FanFest as a family-friendly opportunity for Montrealers to experience the excitement of the Games.
The event offered a space for residents to enjoy winter sports activities together while celebrating Canadian athletes and the Olympic spirit.
