Airdrie has been named Alberta’s Most Active Community in the 2026 ParticipACTION Community Challenge presented by Novo Nordisk.
The annual challenge encourages communities across Canada to get active throughout June by participating in sports, recreation programs, community events and other physical activity opportunities. Airdrie earned the provincial title thanks to the participation of residents and the efforts of organizations, businesses and volunteers. These community leaders hosted walks, fitness classes and other activities that made it easy for people of all ages and abilities to get active.
“I’m incredibly proud of our community. This was Airdrie’s very first year taking part in the ParticipACTION Community Challenge and to be named Alberta’s Most Active Community is an incredible achievement,” says Mayor Heather Spearman.
“Despite a rainy June, our community showed up, got moving and supported one another. That says so much about the spirit and determination of Airdrie.”
Throughout June, residents contributed to Airdrie’s activity score by participating in a wide range of programs, events and activities at Genesis Place, in neighbourhood parks, throughout the community and at home, including fitness classes, walks, recreation programs and drop-in activities.
“Thank you to everyone who hosted activities, volunteered, encouraged others to participate and logged their activities throughout the month,” adds Spearman.
“Because of you, we’ve earned $10,000 to invest back into our community. This recognition is a celebration of the people who make Airdrie such a vibrant, welcoming and active community.”
As Alberta’s Most Active Community, Airdrie received $10,000 in prize funding from ParticipACTION and the Government of Alberta. The funding will be invested directly into future physical activity initiatives, including supporting the community’s participation in future ParticipACTION Community Challenge efforts.
“Whether you’re walking our pathways, playing in our parks, joining a local sports team or trying something new, Airdrie is a fantastic place to live an active lifestyle,” says Spearman.
“This was just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together next year.”
The ParticipACTION Community Challenge is a national physical activity and sport initiative that encourages people across Canada to get active throughout June. In addition to a national grand prize (won by Quebec City), ParticipACTION recognizes one winning community in each remaining province and territory.
Here is a list of the other winners:
- British Columbia – Cranbrook
- Manitoba – Pinawa
- New Brunswick – Miramichi
- Newfoundland and Labrador – Stephenville
- Northwest Territories – Hay River
- Nova Scotia – West Hants
- Nunavut – Kinngait
- Ontario – Mississauga
- PEI – Miltonvale Park
- Saskatchewan – Ituna
- Yukon – Whitehorse
Learn more at participaction.com.
