Let the Games Begin: Kamloops 2026 55+ BC Games Opens Tonight

Fans gather at the Kamloops Powwow Arbour as participants from across B.C. launch five days of competition

The Kamloops 2026 55+ BC Games opens tonight with a free public ceremony at the Kamloops Powwow Arbour, bringing fans and community members together to mark the start of five days of sport across the city. More than 2,900 participants aged 55 and older are competing in 24 sports at venues across Kamloops through September 12. The Games are projected to generate approximately $3 million in economic impact for the region. This is Kamloops' third time hosting the 55+ BC Games, following editions in 1996 and 2013. "Celebrating sport and active living is essential for vibrant, connected communities," said Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. "We are proud supporters of the 55+ BC Games and are committed to working with the BC Seniors Games Society and host communities to bring people together in friendly competition each year. I applaud the hard work that Kamloops has done to showcase joy of sport and the lifelong benefits of staying active." "This is a night Kamloops has been working toward for months, and we can't wait to welcome participants and the community to celebrate together," said Ron McColl, President of the Kamloops 2026 55+ BC Games Host Society. "This week belongs to everyone, the participants who've trained for this and the neighbours who just want to be part of something." Tribute act Classic Elton, fronted by Andrew Johns, headlines the ceremony with a full-band performance of Elton John's hits, complete with horn section, backing vocals and costume changes. The ceremony runs from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Arbour, 345 Powwow Trail, with Classic Elton taking the stage at 7:15. "Kamloops has always known how to host, and this ceremony is a great way to kick off the week," said Diane Murphy, President of the BC Seniors Games Society. "It's exactly what the 55+ BC Games are about: community, celebration and active living." The ceremony follows a Games village on the plaza at the Sandman Centre on Tuesday, where live music, food and refreshments, local and provincial vendors, and an information booth welcomed participants and community members from 1 to 7 p.m. Community events continue Thursday, September 10, with Rhythm and Rivers at the Sandman Centre from 7 to 10 p.m. The Kamloops-based Angie Heinze Band and a DJ headline the evening, with local vendors, food and drinks on hand. The event is 19-plus, free and open to the public. Tickets for the Games 50/50 draw are available at 55plusbcgames.rafflenexus.com, with proceeds supporting athletic programs across B.C. Full competition schedules, event details and volunteer information are available at 55plusbcgames.org and on Facebook and Instagram.

About the Kamloops 2026 55+ BC Games

The Kamloops 2026 55+ BC Games, taking place September 8-12, 2026, is a multi-sport event featuring 24 sports for participants aged 55 and over from across British Columbia. The Games celebrate active aging and athletic achievement while bringing a significant economic and social legacy to Canada's Tournament Capital. The Host Society thanks its media partners, including CFJC-TV, Stingray Media, Pattison Media, and Castanet Kamloops, for their ongoing support.

Let the Games Begin: Kamloops 2026 55+ BC Games Opens Tonight

About the Kamloops 2026 55+ BC Games

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