Surrey Bids to Host 55+ BC Games in 2026

Surrey, BC –The City of Surrey is applying to host the 55+ BC Games in 2026, following Surrey Council’s approval on Monday, March 28. On average, 3,500 to 4,000 participants from around BC compete in a minimum of 20 sports as selected by the Host Community and approved by the BC Seniors Games Society (BCSGS).

“I am proud that the City of Surrey is stepping up and offering to host the 55+ BC Games,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “Our strength as a City comes from our sense of community and inclusivity. The 55+ BC Games will allow Surrey to showcase our work in removing barriers to athletic and recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities. As an age-friendly city, Surrey is a great fit to host these games to celebrate the older adults who are so inspirational in their dedication to fitness and excellence.”

Before the June deadline, the City will submit a bid application to BC Seniors Games Society (BCSGS) to host the 2026 Games. In its submission, the City will outline a one-time commitment of $55,000 for in-kind services and facilities for hosting the Games, $60,000 for general expenses and $75,000 for a full-time Games Operations Manager to be employed by the City for a seven-month period in advance of the games.

The BCSGS has been overseeing the staging of the Games (formerly called the BC Seniors Games) since 1988. The Games are an annual, multi-sport event hosted by a different community in British Columbia each year. The City of Surrey last hosted the 55+ BC Games in 2001.

The Games have provided significant economic benefits to host municipalities in past iterations. Hosting of the Games in Vernon in 2017 showed $3.3 million of direct spending in the community and surrounding areas, while the City of Langley’s 2014 Games showed $3.1 million of direct spending in the community.