“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to host the 2023 Canada Games, which will be a province-wide showcase for the entire Island and our history, our culture, and our people,” said Premier Wade MacLauchlan.“In the coming months we will be collaborating with our sports communities, as well as municipalities and other stakeholders, to create our Island vision and bid for what the 2023 Games will look like.”

Prince Edward Island was originally slated to host the Games in 2031; however, the governments of Prince Edward Island and Northwest Territories have agreed to switch their respective spots in the hosting rotation for the Canada Games, with Prince Edward Island now able to bid to host in 2023 and Northwest Territories able to bid to host in 2031.

The 2009 Canada Summer Games left Prince Edward Island with a legacy of new and improved facilities, enhanced volunteer resources, financial returns from more than 15,000 visitors, and $81.5 million in economic activity

"The Government of the Northwest Territories is fully committed to the Canada Games movement,” said Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs Caroline Cochrane.  “The switch in hosting years provides an opportunity for the GNWT to complete research on new and innovating hosting formats for consideration by Yellowknife and other NWT communities who may be interested in being a part of the Games."

The Canada Games Council (CGC) will now work with the Province of Prince Edward Island on the 2023 bid process.

“Hosting this prestigious national event creates numerous lasting benefits for a community,” said Tom Quinn, Canada Games Council chairman. “We look forward to turning our attention towards the 2023 Canada Winter Games bid process that will be launching in May of 2017.”

In addition to the Canada Games, 2023 also marks Prince Edward Island’s 150th Anniversary in joining Confederation.

“2023 will be a year of celebrating our history and our culture in true Island style,” said Premier MacLauchlan. “The 2023 Canada Winter Games would be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this important moment in our history, and a great way to kick off the yearlong anniversary celebrations.”

The next major Canada Games Council announcement pertaining to the 2023 Canada Winter Games will be in January regarding the unveiling of the 2023 sport selections. Following that, an information session will be held in March where potential bid communities will be presented with an opportunity to clarify any issues, questions or comments pertaining to the bid process.

The official bid process launch will then occur on May 1, 2017.