CKPL to host Olympic, Paralympic Winter Games viewing parties across Chatham-Kent
Chatham-Kent Public Library is bringing the excitement of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to local communities with a series of free viewing parties running from Feb. 6 to March 15.
Residents are invited to cheer on Team Canada during live and pre-recorded coverage hosted at select CKPL branches throughout the municipality. The library will offer a mix of live broadcasts and recorded Olympic coverage through CBC Gem during regular branch hours, giving patrons multiple opportunities to follow the Games close to home.
Festivities begin Friday, Feb. 6, at the Chatham branch, where CBC/Radio-Canada’s coverage of the opening ceremony will be shown in the Library Café. The Chatham branch will also feature Olympic-themed family activities, book displays and trivia ahead of the women’s hockey matchup between Canada and Switzerland on Saturday, Feb. 7, with the game airing at 3:10 p.m.
The local celebrations coincide with the official opening of the Games in Italy. In a statement released Friday, Prime Minister Mark Carney extended his support to Canadian athletes competing on the world stage.
“Today, athletes from around the world gather in Italy to celebrate the opening of the 2026 Olympic Winter Games,” Carney said. “Good luck, Team Canada. You’ve earned this moment. After long days and late nights – through discipline, sacrifice, and relentless effort – you’re ready to compete at the highest level.”
Carney said the Games have the power to bring Canadians together during uncertain times. “Sports are nation building. In a more divided and uncertain world, your success will unite Canadians and remind us that we are part of something bigger,” he said. “You’re wearing the maple leaf with pride in the Winter Olympics. Thank you for inspiring us and for demonstrating to Canadians, and to the world, the very best of Canada.”
Library officials say the viewing parties are family-friendly and open to everyone, encouraging attendees to wear red and white and bring their cheering voices. More information about Olympic and Paralympic viewing events and related programming is available at www.ckpl.ca/ProgramCalendar or through CKPL’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
“Your country is with you. Canadians are with you. This is your moment, and it’s our celebration of what makes you and Canada great,” Carney said.
