Breaking out the skis and snowboards early? 🎿 The International Olympic Committee (IOC) just named Salt Lake City as the official host of the 2034 Winter Olympics and Paralympics during a *drumroll* vote in Paris! 🏔️ This marks Utah’s second time hosting the Winter Games after its iconic 2002 debut.
Imagine setting your alarm for 3 a.m. just to watch a livestream—*that’s* Olympic-level dedication! 🌙 Over 1,000 fans in downtown Salt Lake City did exactly that, cheering wildly as the announcement dropped. Some rocked ski gear (despite summer temps 🔥) while others waved Team USA flags—because why wait for snow to show your spirit? 🇺🇸
Why Salt Lake? 🤔 With climate change shrinking viable winter host cities and rising costs scaring off other contenders, Utah’s capital slid into the spotlight. Bonus: Nearly all 2002 venues are *still* ready to roll, making it a sustainability MVP. 🥇 IOC exec Christophe Dubi called it a \"prime candidate\" for a future rotation of winter hosts.
\"The enthusiasm here is *unreal*,\" said IOC’s Karl Stoss, praising the city’s Olympic vibe. Even Darrell Robinson, who celebrated the 2002 win, returned with his daughter this time—proving some magic never melts. ❄️
