The European Week of Winter Sport 2026 (EWWS) has successfully concluded, marking another important milestone in the promotion of physical activity, community engagement, and winter sport participation across Europe. Building on the success of the first edition in 2025, this year’s initiative once again demonstrated the power of sport to connect people and inspire active lifestyles during the winter season.
The 2026 edition from February 1 to 8, brought together a total of 237 events across 30 countries, engaging an impressive 502.000 participants from a wide range of backgrounds. Schools, sport clubs, municipalities, and grassroots organizations all played a key role in delivering activities that were both accessible and inclusive, reflecting the growing interest in winter sport at community level.
Throughout the week, participants had the opportunity to engage in a diverse programme of activities, ranging from traditional winter sports such as skiing and skating to outdoor fitness sessions, school-based initiatives, and community-driven events. This variety not only encouraged participation but also contributed to building a more active, connected, and health-conscious society across Europe and beyond.
A defining feature of EWWS 2026 has been its strong grassroots approach, which empowered local organizers to design and implement activities tailored to the specific needs and characteristics of their communities. This bottom-up model resulted in a rich and dynamic programme that showcased the cultural and geographical diversity of the participating countries, further strengthening the sense of European unity through sport.
Beyond participation, the initiative continued to promote key values that are central to its mission. Inclusion remained at the forefront, with activities designed to engage people of all ages and abilities, ensuring that winter sport is accessible to everyone. Sustainability was also a core focus, with organizers encouraged to adopt environmentally conscious practices in the planning and delivery of events. At the same time, EWWS fostered community building by bringing together local stakeholders and encouraging collaboration, ultimately reinforcing the social impact of sport.
The communication campaign surrounding EWWS 2026 played a significant role in amplifying its reach and visibility. Participants and organizers actively shared their experiences through photos and videos, contributing to a growing European narrative that celebrates winter sport not only as a form of physical activity but also as a driver of connection and wellbeing.
As the initiative moves into its final phase, attention will turn to recognizing excellence and innovation through the EWWS Promotional Contest and the Sustainability Award. These awards will highlight the most inspiring stories and best practices emerging from this year’s edition, further encouraging creativity and commitment among organizers.
With its continued growth and strong engagement, the European Week of Winter Sport confirms its role as a key initiative within the European sport landscape, promoting healthy lifestyles and strengthening communities through sport. As momentum continues to build, EWWS is set to remain a driving force in encouraging participation and fostering a more active and inclusive Europe.
The European Week of Winter Sport is an initiative co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union. It aims to promote participation in sport and physical activity while raising awareness of climate change and encouraging sustainable practices. The second edition of the European Week of Winter Sports took place from 1 to 8 February 2026, bringing together participants from across Europe and beyond.
