Which Winter Olympics was the first where the symbolic fire was lit?

The first Winter Olympics where the symbolic fire was lit took place in 1936 in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. The tradition of the Olympic flame is rooted in the ancient Olympic Games, where a flame was kept burning throughout the event. The inclusion of a flame in the Winter Games established a symbolic connection to the larger Olympic tradition and helped to enhance the ceremonial aspect of the games, creating a sense of continuity and unity among athletes and nations.

In contrast, the Winter Olympics prior to 1936, such as those in 1932 and 1948, did not feature the lighting of the Olympic flame as part of their ceremonies. The tradition was firmly established with the 1936 Games and has continued in every Olympic event since, including both summer and winter editions.