Torch lighting ceremony held as Kamloops prepares to host 2026 55+ BC Games

“Kamloops has always been home and representing this community tonight is something I will not forget,” added Woodland.

The games will feature competition across 28 sports, and participant registration is currently underway. Interested athletes over the age of 55 from across British Columbia are encouraged to register here.

At the ceremony Friday, Diane Murphy, the president of the BC Senior Games Society, said the event is the largest multi-sport games in British Columbia.

“Everyone is excited to come to Kamloops for good competition, to see old friends, to celebrate together,” Murphy told the crowd.

Volunteer recruitment is also underway with numerous opportunities still available across sport venues and event operations. Interested applicants can register here.

“Every year, the 55+ BC Games bring together people from throughout the province to celebrate life-long active living,” said Anne Kang, the Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.

“The torch lighting ceremony is a powerful and inspiring symbol of what the upcoming Kamloops Games will represent for hundreds of participants. The Games give participants and spectators an opportunity to celebrate sport, friendly competition and the power of community, as well as promote tourism and visitation to all regions of the Province.”

Kamloops has hosted the 55+ BC Games twice before in 1996 and 2013. Kamloops has also hosted the Canada 55+ Games in 2022, the Canada Summer Games in 1993, the BC Summer Games in 2006, and the BC Winter Games in 1979 and in 2018.

The city has also been named as the host for the 2028 BC Winter Games, which will run March 2 to 5 that year.

by Victor Kaisar

Torch lighting ceremony held as Kamloops prepares to host 2026 55+ BC Games

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