Nanaimo 2025 55+ BC Games Torch Lighting Ceremony
June 20, 2025

Summary
The Torch Lighting Ceremony is the official kick-off to the Nanaimo 2025 BC 55+ Games! The event will take place at Diana Krall Plaza on Thursday June 19, 2025, during the Nanaimo Night Market.
The Torch Lighting Ceremony will begin at 6:00 PM, featuring local entertainment, special guests, past athletes, and community leaders. The event will highlight the spirit of community that defines the 55+ BC Games.
The 55+ BC Games are presented annually in different communities around the province. Nanaimo will host the 55+ BC Games from September 9 to 13, 2025 at venues across the City.
Quick facts
– 21 sports over 4 days
– 20 venues throughout Nanaimo
– 2700 participants
– 1200+ volunteers
– $3M+ in economic activity
The 55+ BC Games are a vital part of the BC sports system and the largest annual multi-sport event in the province. The Games offer the opportunity to celebrate sport and active living with other participants from across the province and experience the hospitality of Nanaimo
Quotes
Diana Johnstone, President Nanaimo 2025 55+ BC Games Host Society
“The Torch Lighting is an important celebration, and marks just 100 days until Nanaimo hosts the 2025 55+ BC Games. I invite everyone to join us in celebrating! There are also lots of opportunities to get involved as a volunteer.”
Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
“Hosting the 2025 55+ BC Games is an exciting opportunity for the City of Nanaimo,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “These Games celebrate the passion and spirit of sport and prove that age is no barrier to staying active. I wish the very best to all the participants and thank the many dedicated volunteers and staff who are working hard to make it all possible.”
Leonard Krog, Mayor – City of Nanaimo
“We are proud to welcome the 55+ BC Games to our community this summer. This event celebrates active living, friendly competition and the incredible spirit of participants from across the province. On behalf of City Council, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to the organizing Board of the 55+ BC Games who are working tirelessly to make these Games a success. Their dedication reflects the best of our city and we look forward to cheering on the athletes and sharing all that Nanaimo has to offer.”
Diane Murphy, BC Seniors Games Society President
“The BC Seniors Games Society is looking forward to celebrating with everyone at the Nanaimo 2025 55+ BC Games Torch lighting Ceremony on June 19th at 6pm at the Night Market in Nanaimo. Thank you to the Nanaimo Host Society for coordinating the Torch Lighting Ceremony which marks the official countdown to the 55+ BC Games that are being held in the beautiful Harbour City of Nanaimo from September 9th to 13th, 2025.”
Media Contact
Jenn Houtby-Ferguson
Director of Promotions, Nanaimo 2025 55+ BC Games
E: promotionsdirector2025@55plus.ca
C: 250-713-9849