The 2026 Winter Olympic Games will commence on the 6th–22nd February in Italy, taking place across beautiful sites in Lombardy and Northeast Italy. Known as Milano Cortina 2026, the event features a wide variety of
international, multi-skilled competitions.
This will be the fourth time Italy has hosted the Winter Olympics, and it marks the 35th Winter Olympic Games. Cortina’s newly built Olympic Village will accommodate 1,400 athletes from around the globe.
Events such as Alpine skiing, Biathlon, Bobsleigh, Cross-Country Skiing, Curling, Figure Skating, Freestyle Skiing, Ice Hockey, Luge, Ski Jumping, Snowboarding, and many more winter sports will be broadcast on television throughout the games.
How to Celebrate the Winter Olympic Games in Aged Care
For the duration of the games, decorate your activity or dining areas in a festive Italian theme. Use red and white checked tablecloths, bowls of lemons, Italian flags, and large scenic backdrops of iconic Italian locations (these are very affordable online from Temu, Amazon, AliExpress, etc.). Add red, white, and green balloons and bunting to complete the look.
Ideas to Bring the Theme to Life:
Host an Italian lunch with pizza, garlic bread, pasta dishes, salads, a little wine, and classic desserts such as tiramisu, cannoli, panna cotta, and coffee.
Create a musical mood by playing Italian favourites—and turn the volume up for a sing-along to “That’s Amore.”
Travel to Italy for a day with Armchair Travel while the Winter Olympics are underway so residents can learn more about Italian culture and traditions. Explore our full Armchair Travel to Italy guide:
Watch a demonstration of Italian dancing .
Enjoy our fun Italian Quiz for seniors as part of the celebration:
And of course—watch the Olympic events on TV together and cheer on the athletes!
