This February, all eyes turn to British Columbia as the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 makes history. Scheduled from February 8–16, 2025, these Games will not only mark the event’s return to Canada but will also introduce winter sports for the first time, showcasing the resilience and camaraderie of over 550 wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans from around the globe.
Founded by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games celebrate the unbreakable spirit of those who have served their nations. “Invictus,” meaning “unconquered,” captures the essence of the Games—an event born from the transformative power of sport in recovery and rehabilitation. Since its inception in London, the Invictus Games have traveled the globe, inspiring millions in Orlando (2016), Toronto (2017), Sydney (2018), The Hague (2022), and Düsseldorf (2023).
The 2025 Games promise to carry this legacy forward with an emphasis on winter sports, a first in the event’s illustrious history.
Athletes from up to 25 nations will compete across 11 adaptive sports, including traditional events like wheelchair basketball and powerlifting. The introduction of winter sports—alpine skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing, biathlon, skeleton, and wheelchair curling—brings new excitement and challenges. These events will take place at iconic venues such as Whistler Blackcomb, Whistler Olympic Park, and the Whistler Sliding Centre.
The Games kick off on February 8, 2025, at BC Place in Vancouver with an Opening Ceremony to remember. Global pop sensation Katy Perry, GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter Noah Kahan, Canadian icon Nelly Furtado, and Quebec’s alt-pop star Roxane Bruneau will headline the event, setting the tone for nine days of unforgettable moments.
From wheelchair basketball pool play at the Vancouver Convention Centre to the snowboarding finals at Whistler Blackcomb, every day promises thrilling action. Notable highlights include alpine skiing on February 11 and the Nordic skiing relay on February 14.
On February 16, Rogers Arena will host the Closing Ceremony, featuring performances by GRAMMY-nominated artist Jelly Roll, the beloved Canadian band Barenaked Ladies, and Americana duo The War and Treaty.
The Games honour the traditional territories of the xʼwəθkʼəʷəm (Musqueam), Sᴵwx̣wú7mesh (Squamish), Səlílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and Liḻ̇wat Nations. Organizers are working closely with these Indigenous communities to incorporate their rich cultural heritage into the event, aligning with Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action.
Two free Invictus Villages will serve as hubs for fans and families:
Vancouver Invictus Village: Located at the Vancouver Convention Centre, open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. PT. Visitors can enjoy live event screenings, partner activations, games, and entertainment.
Whistler Invictus Village: Open from February 9 to 13 along the Village Stroll, featuring live concerts, cultural activities, and family-friendly experiences.
Tickets for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and various competitions are available through Ticketmaster, with prices ranging from $13 to $30. Some events have limited capacity, so fans are encouraged to secure their spots early.
The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 promise to be more than a sporting event—they are a testament to the resilience, determination, and indomitable spirit of the competitors. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or exploring the Invictus Villages, you’ll witness the unyielding power of human potential.
As Vancouver and Whistler prepare to welcome the world, the question remains: how will these Games inspire the next generation to redefine what’s possible? Stay tuned to Backspin Canada for comprehensive coverage and exclusive insights from this landmark event.