The 2026 Winter Olympics are slated for Northern Italy, specifically Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. Italy previously hosted the Winter Games in 2006. Expect to see returning favorites like figure skating, Alpine skiing, and ice hockey, alongside a new sport: snow mountaineering. The opening ceremony is scheduled for February 6, 2026, with events spanning through February 22nd.

Live coverage will be available on Peacock and select events on NBC. Due to the time difference, viewers in the U.S. will need to rise early to watch live. Primetime replays will be aired on NBC. Event schedules begin as early as February 4th. This presents an opportunity for streaming services to gain more subscribers in a competitive market.

To watch without cable, Peacock is a primary option, offering live coverage of all events. For those with cable, NBC will broadcast the games. Expect a packed schedule with events running throughout the day. The games are set to begin with the opening ceremony on February 6th.

With the Olympics in Italy, viewers should be ready for early mornings. The closing ceremony will take place on February 22nd. The event offers a chance for NBC and Peacock to showcase their streaming capabilities and draw in a wide audience. The event is a boost for the sports and entertainment industries.