Canada 55+ Games returning to Regina in 2028

A participant of the 2018 Canada 55+ Games. (Screenshot/Canada Senior Games Association)

The 2028 Canada 55+ Games will be returning to the Queen City.

On Monday, the City of Regina announced that it had won its bid to host the event designed to promote active living, participation and healthy lifestyles for Canadians aged 55 and over.

The first ever event was held in Regina in 1996.

“Regina is thrilled to welcome the Canada 55+ Games back home in 2028,” Mayor Chad Bachynski said in a news release.

“Our city has a long and proud history with these games, and we’re excited to once again showcase the spirit, energy and hospitality that define our community.”

The games will take place from Aug. 21, 2028, till Aug. 24, 2028.

The event’s inaugural running in 1996 brought in more than 530 participants. However, the games have experienced steady growth over the years.

The Canada Senior Games Association expects more than 2,000 people to compete in 2028.

The games will receive funding support from the Regina Hotel Association, City of Regina and Tourism Saskatchewan.

Minister Responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan Alana Ross said the province is “proud to support” the upcoming games.

“This national event brings participants from across Canada together to celebrate active living, sport and community connection,” she said. “It is also a wonderful opportunity to showcase Regina’s outstanding hosting capabilities and highlight Saskatchewan as a welcoming destination for visitors.”

Each national competition has 15 mandatory events and six optional events determined by the local organizing committee.

“We are inviting all who are celebrating your 55th year, whether it be for the 10th, 20th, 30th or 40th time to join us in our beautiful Queen City during August 21 to 24, 2028 to celebrate, compete and above all have fun,” said Larry Hesterman, president of the Canada 55+ Games organizing committee.

The 2028 games were originally scheduled to take place in Winnipeg in 2026 but were postponed due to funding challenges and rapid growth in participation.

The games are typically held every two years.