Verona and the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics
2026 promises to be an unforgettable year for Verona. The city will be one of the key locations of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, the major international sporting event taking place from February 6 to 22. While most competitions are held in the main venues of Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and other Alpine locations, Verona will play a central and symbolic role, welcoming spectators, athletes, and fans from all over the world.
At Hotel Indigo Verona – Grand Hotel des Arts, we look forward to hosting you and immersing you in the Olympic atmosphere, surrounded by cultural events, spectacular shows, and grand celebrations. Explore our special offers and exclusive packages to learn more.
The Closing Ceremony at the Verona Arena
The highlight of Verona’s Olympic journey will be the Closing Ceremony of the Winter Games, taking place on February 22, 2026, inside the Verona Arena.
Titled Beauty in Action, this event marks a historic milestone: for the first time in the history, a Winter Olympics ceremony will be held within a UNESCO World Heritage monument.
This celebration will bring together sport, art, and culture in a spectacular tribute to Italian beauty—featuring dance, music, and performances, with the participation of world-renowned artists such as étoile Roberto Bolle.
The Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Winter Paralympics
Verona will also play a leading role in the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics. After the Winter Olympics, the Verona Arena will host the Opening Ceremony of the 14th Winter Paralympic Games on March 6, 2026. Titled Life in Motion, the event pays tribute to life, movement, resilience, and inclusion through art and sport.
For the occasion, Verona is improving accessibility in the Arena and surrounding areas, ensuring that all participants can fully enjoy this unique experience.
This ceremony is not just a sporting event but a celebration of human values, inner strength, and the spirit of a community ready to welcome the world with enthusiasm and pride.
The Torch Relay and Olympic Events in the City
Before the official start of the competitions, Verona will host one of the stages of the Olympic Torch Relay, a moment rich in symbolism and public participation. The journey of the torch through the historic city center will conclude in Piazza Bra, where a celebration with music, entertainment, and family-friendly performances will take place.
These events offer a wonderful opportunity to explore the city, embrace the Olympic spirit, and celebrate alongside visitors from around the world.
Other Events and Cultural Initiatives
A series of Olympic-themed events will take place across Verona, featuring cultural initiatives, artistic performances, and entertainment designed to engage both residents and visitors.
Many of these events are part of The Sixth Ring, a multidisciplinary program that links art, sport, and the community, exploring the connection between physical performance and cultural creativity.