Toronto to Host the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games®

World’s largest Jewish teen engagement event to showcase community strength, drive economic and cultural impact in partnership with the City of Vaughan

[Toronto, Ontario] — The Prosserman JCC and Schwartz/Reisman Centre are thrilled to announce that Toronto has been selected to host the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games. This continental celebration of community and athletics is the preeminent Jewish youth-serving and community-building platform. The games will take place in the Greater Toronto Area from August 2-6, 2026, with the City of Vaughan playing a pivotal role in unlocking a transformative hub-and-spoke model.

The community will experience the state-of-the art facilities at both the Prosserman JCC and Schwartz/Reisman Centre with the latter serving as the central hub in Vaughan, enabling seamless coordination of sports venues, accommodations, and cultural programming. This partnership will showcase the vibrancy of Jewish life while also driving significant economic activity in the Vaughan and Greater Toronto Area.

A Mission Fulfilled Through Sport

The JCC’s mission to enrich Jewish life through meaningful, shared experiences finds its fullest expression in hosting the JCC Maccabi Games. These Games will bring together over 2,000 Jewish teen athletes from across North America Israel and beyond to compete in Olympic-style events. Beyond athletic achievement, the JCC Maccabi Games are a celebration of Jewish identity, resilience, and community-building at a time when collective connection is more crucial than ever.“Hosting the JCC Maccabi Games is an unparalleled opportunity to engage Jewish teens in a deeply meaningful and joyful way,” said Andrew Levy, Executive Director, Prosserman JCC and Schwartz/Reisman Centre. “It’s about creating lifelong connections, fostering Jewish pride, and strengthening the fabric of our community.”

A Hub for Teen Engagement and Leadership Development

The 2026 JCC Maccabi Games will be the largest Jewish teen event in Toronto since the Games were last held here in 1986. “The 2026 JCC Maccabi Games will be a landmark event for our city, not just in terms of sports but in its profound ability to unite and inspire Jewish community.” said David Dulberg, Chair of the Schwartz Reisman Centre & Prosserman JCC Board of Directors. “With teen engagement at its core, the event offers transformative opportunities for the athletes to connect with their Jewish identity, develop leadership skills, and contribute to tikkun olam (repairing the world) through hands-on volunteer projects”.

City of Vaughan: A Strategic Partner

The City of Vaughan’s commitment to the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games includes support with world-class facilities, accommodations, and logistics. This partnership underscores Vaughan’s vision as a city that values diversity, community engagement, and economic growth.“I am pleased the City of Vaughan will play a pivotal role in hosting the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games. This global event celebrates the hard work and long hours these athletes have devoted to their sport while honouring and preserving their Jewish heritage,” said Mayor Steven Del Duca. “Vaughan is home to world-class sports facilities, restaurants and accommodations and is a destination of choice for global events. I look forward to welcoming competitors from around the world to our great city. I want to thank the Prosserman JCC and Schwartz/Reisman Centre for their commitment to showcasing our city on the global stage. I am excited to see everyone here in 2026.”

Economic Impact and Community Legacy

With an estimated 2,000 athletes and more than 10,000 spectators, the Games are projected to generate $2.6 million for Ontario. Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the event will lay the groundwork for enhanced post-Games teen programming and foster stronger ties across the Jewish and broader Toronto communities.“The impact of hosting the 2026 JCC Maccabi in Toronto will be felt long after the closing ceremonies,” said Levy. “The Games will mark the beginning of a bold new vision for Jewish teen life in Toronto and a lasting legacy of a generation of Jewish teens who can confidently lead and inspire their peers, while standing strong in their Jewish identity.”

Join Us on the Journey to 2026

The Prosserman JCC and Schwartz/Reisman Centre invite community members, local businesses, and volunteers to be part of this historic event. From hosting athletes to sponsoring activities, there are countless ways to get involved and leave a lasting impact.For more information and updates on the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games, visit www.torontojccmaccabi.com.

Media Inquiries:
Perry Schwartz
Vice President, Prosserman JCC and Schwartz/Reisman Centre
perry@prossermanjcc.com
416-738-8490

For More Information

JCC Maccabi News