Fort Bend County has never been small-minded.
We build big. We dream big. We raise kids who think globally. From Sugar Land to Missouri City, Richmond to Fulshear, our community reflects the world — languages, cultures, ambition, and pride woven together in one of the most dynamic counties in America.
So here’s a bold idea:
In February 2026, Fort Bend should show up in Milano Cortina.
From February 6–22, the world will gather for the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics — the first officially co-hosted Winter Games, stretching from the stylish streets of Milan to the breathtaking mountain peaks of Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Dolomites.
And this isn’t just another international sporting event.
It’s a moment.
Why This Olympics Feels Different
Italy has hosted before — Cortina in 1956 — but this time the Games are split between modern Milan (home of ice events like figure skating and hockey) and the dramatic Alpine valleys (downhill skiing, bobsled, ski jumping, and the Olympic debut of ski mountaineering).
Imagine:
- Figure skating under bright arena lights in Milan
- A two-hour train ride into snow-covered mountain villages
- Watching downhill racers fly at 80 mph against a postcard-perfect backdrop
It’s sport, culture, and travel wrapped into one unforgettable experience.
Why Fort Bend Should Go
You might ask: “We’re from Texas. Why a Winter Olympics?”
That’s exactly why.
Fort Bend County represents the world. Our children grow up hearing multiple languages at school. Our neighborhoods reflect global stories. The Olympics are the one place where that diversity is not just visible — it’s celebrated.
1. It’s the Ultimate Global Classroom
For families raising the next generation of leaders, this is more than a vacation. It’s perspective.
When a child sees 90+ nations walking into an opening ceremony, flags waving side by side, they understand something powerful: excellence comes from everywhere.
You can stream highlights later.
You cannot stream the feeling of being there.
2. It’s Easier Than You Think
Houston’s international airport connects directly to Milan. One overnight flight, and you wake up in Northern Italy.
From there:
- Milan for ice events and world-class dining
- Scenic rail rides to Cortina
- Day trips to Venice or the Italian lakes
It’s surprisingly manageable — especially for families already used to planning major trips, reunions, or spring break travel.
3. Make It Multi-Generational
Here’s a Fort Bend challenge:
Take a senior citizen who’s never been to Europe.
Take a grandchild who’s never seen snow.
Take a teenager who needs to witness global excellence.
Turn it into a memory that lasts 30 years.
The Olympics aren’t just about medals. They’re about moments — the silence before a ski jump, the roar of a crowd during a final lap, the pride when an anthem plays.
Those are legacy experiences.
And Let’s Talk About Italy…
February in the Dolomites looks like a snow globe. Historic villages, alpine cafés, Olympic banners hanging from balconies.
Milan will bring elegance and energy — packed arenas, fashion-forward crowds, piazzas alive with celebration.
You could:
- Watch figure skating in the morning
- Tour historic Milan in the afternoon
- End the day with pasta that permanently changes your standards
It’s not just a sports trip. It’s a cultural immersion.
A Time for Unity
In a world that can feel divided, the Olympics remain one of the few moments where nations gather in peaceful competition.
For two weeks, the focus is discipline, perseverance, and pride — values Fort Bend families understand well.
We are a county built on ambition and resilience. Why not let our presence be felt on the global stage — as spectators, as supporters, as families who believe in showing up?
Fort Bend Truth & Times | Special Feature
The Trip by the numbers.
Estimated Per-Person Cost (10 Days):
- Flights from Houston: $1,000–$1,500
- Hotels (8 nights): $2,500–$3,500
- Olympic event tickets (3–4 events): $500–$1,000
- Food & local travel: $800–$1,000
Estimated Total:
$5,000–$7,000 per person
(Family of four: roughly $20,000–$28,000)
If you just need a break. Take out $5,000 and enjoy an unforgettable moment.
