Lake Banook has landed two major canoe sprint championships that will bring international athletes, fans, and millions of dollars into the community, comparable to the IIHF World Juniors or SailGP events.
What’s happening?
Dartmouth’s Lake Banook has scored two major world championships in summer 2026.
- Masters Canoe Sprint World Championships: June 25–27
- Junior & U23 Canoe Sprint World Championships: July 1–5
It is the first time Canada will host these back to back. Thousands of athletes and supporters from 60+ countries are expected.
Why it matters
Think World Juniors hockey, but on the water. When Halifax hosted the World Juniors the city buzzed. Hotels were sold out. Restaurants were packed. The spotlight was global. Lake Banook 2026 is that kind of stage for Dartmouth.
These championships will not only fill hotels and restaurants with visitors. They will also be broadcast worldwide through the International Canoe Federation’s partners and streaming platforms. Past events have appeared on Eurosport, CBC, and Universal Sports, with global streaming on the ICF’s Planet Canoe channel. That means Dartmouth will be seen on screens around the world.
Together the events are projected to bring in $11 million in economic impact. Local businesses, hotels, and restaurants will all benefit.
“These championships will showcase the talent and determination of athletes from around the globe while celebrating the legacy of a waterway that has shaped our community for generations,” said Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore.
Connection to Mi’kmaw waters
Tex Marshall of the Mi’kmaw Sport Council opened the announcement with a Welcome to the Territory. He recognized Lake Banook as part of the traditional Shubenacadie waterway system. It was a route for travel and gathering for the Mi’kmaq for thousands of years. The global championships continue that legacy of connection.
Local stars to watch
Fans will have hometown athletes to cheer.
- Tate Levy of Fall River. A Junior Worlds bronze medalist in sprint kayak.
- Sloan MacKenzie. An Olympic bronze medalist in sprint canoe and one of Canada’s fastest rising paddlers.
Both could be racing in front of a hometown crowd in 2026.
The economic boost
The Junior & U23 Worlds are expected to contribute $9.3 million. The Masters Worlds add another $1.5 million.
Thousands of visitors will fill hotels, shops, and restaurants across HRM. This builds on the success of Canoe 22, which brought in over $10.5 million and funded a new tower on Lake Banook.
“By bringing athletes, officials and fans from more than 60 countries together at Lake Banook, these events will showcase our province’s strong paddling tradition,” said Dave Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage.
