The deadline for Community Sport Hosts to register their interest in hosting an event was May 22. The invitation below is available for information purposes. Stay tuned for future opportunities to get involved by signing up for the Ottawa Sport Council’s newsletter.
Dear Community Sport Partners,
In 2026, our city marks a historic milestone: the 200th anniversary of the founding of Ottawa. To celebrate, the Ottawa Sport Council and City of Ottawa Recreation, Culture and Facilities Services (RCFS) are launching a massive, city-wide initiative to get our community celebrating together through sport. The goal is to have 200 free sport opportunities available where communities can connect, learn and celebrate across the city.
This event brings together the hundreds of community sport organizations and partners who are at the heart of sport. Collectively, we’ll make it possible for thousands of people and families to try a new sport, spend the weekend together and connect with their neighbours and friends, while removing all barriers to participation and creating a space where everyone belongs.
Sports 200 – Two Days. Everyone Plays.
When: Saturday June 6th and/or Sunday June 7th, 2026 (alongside the Doors Open Ottawa weekend, National Health and Fitness Day and the final month of the ParticipACTION Community Challenge)
Where: Citywide (community centres, parks, fields, community sport locations)
Purpose: To provide community members the opportunity to try different sports and activities at no cost, led by coaches, volunteers and community sport partners to provide a fun and quality learning experience, showcasing how sport is a catalyst for connection.
Why Join the “Sports 200 – Two Days. Everyone Plays.” event?
This celebration is a milestone for our City. It is a historical legacy that will be reflected for years to come. Read about how sport played a vital role in the City of Ottawa Centenary and for the Bicentennial we have a mission to do the same. By hosting a sport activation you will:
- Gain Sport Exposure: Put your sport organization in front of local families looking for their next favourite activity. All organizations will be recognized on the forthcoming Sports 200 webpage, social media channels, marketing, radio and print media.
- Recruit New Talent: This is a prime opportunity to sign up new participants, members and volunteers for your upcoming seasons.
- Remove Barriers: By offering activities at no cost, you help fulfill the mission that sport belongs to everyone, ensuring that sport is accessible, inclusive, and important.
- Be Part of History: Your organization’s name and sport will be permanently linked to the Ottawa 200 celebrations and the city’s bicentennial story. Share why sport is so vital to building strong communities.
What is the Role?
We are seeking community sport organizations and their volunteers, coaches, and staff to host interactive, family-friendly sport opportunities. The Ottawa Sport Council and City of Ottawa RCFS can help provide access to a venue if your organization needs one to run your activity.
Ideas/Examples could be:
- A Try It Activation: 45-60 minute introductory session for new/beginners to learn a new sport and try it out, providing equipment and volunteers/coaches to lead the group
- An Open House: Invite the public to participate in an open house environment, explore the facility, and jump in to join a game or group
- A Clinic or Skills Session: Invite experienced sport enthusiasts to learn a new skill, improve a technique or participate in a group exercise to improve their sport abilities
The Ottawa Sport Council recently held an info session for prospective Community Sport Hosts. You can view the presentation slides here. A toolkit will be provided to all Community Sport Hosts.
View Presentation
Watch | Sports 200 Info Webinar
Ready to be part of Ottawa’s history in sport?
For questions or more information, please contact Ottawa Sport Council Executive Director Frances Mercer at [email protected].