The Arctic Winter Games are a biennial multi-sport and cultural event hosted by contingents in the Arctic region, specifically focusing on circumpolar communities from areas like Canada, Alaska, Kalaallit Nunaat, Russia, and Northern Scandinavia.
About Us
Mat-Su 2024 Arctic Winter Games
About us
The Mat-Su Borough will welcome the Circumpolar North for the first time as hosts of the 2024 Arctic Winter Games! This opportunity was awarded in early 2021 followed by the formation of a Host Society (Board of Directors), incorporated as the Mat-Su 2024 Arctic Winter Games Host Society. The Host Society brings a blend of skills and expertise to meet the needs required to host a successful international event in our community. We look forward to welcoming participants, spectators, volunteers, and our northern neighbors to the Mat-Su in 2024!
These games bring together athletes of all ages to participate in a wide range of winter sports, including traditional Arctic sports like snowshoeing, and Dene games, alongside more conventional events like skiing and ice hockey. Beyond the competitive aspect, the games promote cultural exchange and understanding among the diverse Indigenous populations of the Arctic. This unique event showcases the resilience and adaptability of these communities in the face of challenging winter conditions and provides a platform for celebrating their rich heritage and sportsmanship.
Mission
To share the spirit and beauty of the Mat-Su by hosting a world-class event that promotes healthy recreational activities and empowers future leaders through sport and culture.
Values
RISE — Resilience, Inclusivity, Strength and Excellence
Vision Statement
Mat-Su 2024 Arctic Winter Games unites and celebrates our community while connecting us to our northern neighbors.
Acknowledging the Land
We would like to acknowledge that the Mat-Su 2024 Arctic Winter Games are taking place on the ancestral land of the Dena’ina’ and Ahtna Dene who have stewarded this area of Benteh and Nuutah for thousands of years. Our community thrives thanks to their continued sharing of vision, wisdom, values, and leadership. We offer our respect to their Elders past and present and to current Tribal leaders.
Animal Ambassador
The chickadee will serve as the animal ambassador for the 2024 Mat-Su Arctic Winter Games. After a collaborative process with robust community input, as the Host Society we’ve opted out of the typical sports “mascot” program in favor of a new, more reverent representation of our animal and the spirit of the Games. Additional artistic representations of chickadees will be allowed with permission from the Host Society.
