Host cities announced for the 2024 to 2027 55+ BC Games

On Monday, the BC Seniors Games Society (BCSGS) announced the host cities for the 55+ BC Games.

Salmon Arm will host the games in 2023, Nanaimo in 2025, Kamloops in 2026 and Surrey in 2027.

The 55+ BC Games include five days of competition and cultural events that attract an average of 3,000 participants from across the province to compete in more than 30 sports.

Salmon Arm will be home to the games from Sept. 10 to Sept. 14, 2024.

The most recent games wrapped up in Greater Victoria this year and planning is underway for the 2023 Games which will be held in Abbotsford in August of next year.

In a news release, the BCSGS says the games will bring several benefits to each host community.

“In 2022, an economic impact study conducted by Destination Greater Victoria using the Destinations International Event Impact Calculator found that the 55+ BC Games provide an impact of over $6.5 million to the host community,” states the society.

“In addition, host communities benefit from the development of capacity to host large multisport events by training volunteers and improved infrastructure through the Games Legacy program.”

The Games have been around for more than 30 years with Vernon hosting the inaugural event in 1988.

In the news release, the BCSGS explains that the games were created to improve the health, lifestyle and image of British Columbia’s 55+ population.