While the 2026 Milan-Cortina winter Olympics have come to a close, it’s hard to break the thrill of the wonderful disciplines of unique speed, grace and talent showcased in each event. To keep excitement high, here are five of the WIS communities’ favorite sporting events, and how you can bring the fun to your own backyard.
Skiing/Snowboarding
Calling all fans of speed, tricks, snow and altitude, nothing beats a nice winter day shredding down the slopes of Whitetail Resort. If the more esoteric sports aren’t your thing, just 90 minutes from D.C., this Pennsylvania ski resort has something for everyone. Providing plenty of lessons and equipment rentals, Whitetail is a place where everyone can find joy. If you don’t like skiing or snowboarding, visit anyways for their high-energy snow tubing to enjoy the gorgeous mountain views. Per Whitetail Resort, they more than deliver on the freeing and “pure mountain town experience for family and friends to escape to”.
Curling
Often misunderstood, curling holds a highly strategic complexity widely nicknamed as “chess on ice” by the olympic committee and athletes alike, gaining popularity as a competitive sport. Curling dates back to the inaugural Winter Olympics of 1924 in Chamonix, France where it began as an official medal sport. Despite a long hiatus, it was rerecognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2006 for its demonstration of precision, balance and physical endurance. The best thing is that anyone can do it; simply stop by Potomac Curling Club to try your hand at curling. About 35 minutes from D.C. proper, this club frequently hosts “Try Curling” open houses with an hour of basic instruction at just $10, or for an intermediate boost, take on their three-hour “Learn to Curl” session; maybe you’ll be intrigued by the sport too.
Figure Skating & Ice Hockey
For those of you who admire figure skatings’ multifaceted discipline of athletic artistry, look no further than Arlington’s very own MedStar Capitals Iceplex for age-specific professional lessons and indoor skating year-round. Ice Hockey fans look forward to just as much fun and skill right in the home of the Washington Capitals’ practice complex. For those of you living in Maryland, try Rockville Ice Arena, only 30 minutes away from Bethesda. If you are seeking a more relaxed and scenic outdoor experience, the Washington Harbour Ice Rink (the largest in Georgetown) and the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden are bound to bring about a magical atmosphere of skating. Nestled in the trees, why not enhance the experience by bringing your own music as you glide on the ice and live your skating dreams? Until March 1, all can enjoy the beauty for just $15 a ticket, plus an additional $7 to rent skates.
Bobsled/Luge/Skeleton
“I only watch in case someone crashes,” says Jack Forrester (Class of 27). While the inherent risks of these events are difficult to overlook, one can still experience the thrill of speed in safe conditions. Simply head outside and get in the wintry spirit with top sledding hills at the U.S Capitol Lawn (West Front), Fort Reno Park, or Battery Kemble Park. Offering the steepest and exhilarating terrains for rapid downhill runs, these locations provide an adrenaline filled and gravity powered experience. What better way to enjoy this memorable season of snow!
*Bonus: Speed Skating
As we cheered on WIS Alumnus Kamryn Lute (Class of 2022) in speed skating, any aspiring athletes can follow in her footsteps by participating in sessions at DC-ICE, both ice and inline skating, to learn the intricacies of the sport. If you become serious, consider joining a club in the area! Either way, you’re bound to have a fun and fresh experience.
By Chloé Enstad
