There is a wide range of games that can be offered at each Provincial Games. Some challenge the body, and some challenge the mind. But all are out of the spirit of fun!

We are always open to new ideas and thoughts and Host Committees are always encouraged to introduce activities that may be unique to their particular area. The following is a list of activities that you will definitely see at the Provincial Games (also known as the Core Activities) followed by a list of optional activities which the Host Committee may or may not choose to include.

Core Activities

The following sixteen Core Activities listed below will be offered at all Nova Scotia 55+ Games.

Optional Activities

Host to select 6-10 of the following events so total events is at least 20, but no more than 24.

NOTE

The activities above with an asterisk are considered bonus events and participants can register for those events in addition to their main event. Bonus events are only to be included as long as they can be run on a non-interference basis with most of the other events (e.g. conducted prior to the Opening Ceremonies or on the final day, Saturday).

Levels of competition

We are aware that there are literally hundreds of various clubs across the province that 55+ people belong to. Examples of these are golf clubs, curling clubs, bowling leagues, and bridge clubs. Our aim is to bring together anyone who has a competitive streak, enjoys a little travel, and especially likes bonding with new people.

Nova Scotia 55+ Games

The games pit competitors from all six regions against each other in a range of activities. Most Provincial Games last three days and most events are scheduled as one or half-day events to allow competitors to participate in multiple events. Exceptions to this are hockey, slo-pitch, and curling which require a round-robin tournament.

The NS 55+ Games are held biannually on odd-numbered years. The basic cost of participation is $35.00 and additional fees are required for some activities like golf. The winners of each activity at the Provincial Games also compete as a part of Team Nova Scotia at the National 55+ Games which are held biannually on even-numbered years.

Canada 55+ Games

The Canada 55+ Games were established in 1996 and as of April 2019, there are nine provinces and two territories that are members of the Canada Senior Games Association (CSGA). Only Newfoundland and Nunavut have not joined, however, representatives from both of those areas have competed in the past and it is hoped both will join in the future.

Like the NS 55+ Games, the Canada 55+ Games are held biannually but on even-numbered years. Unlike the NS 55+ Games, participants can only take part in one activity which is primarily due to the numbers that attend the Canada Games. As an example, over 2200 Canadians attended the 2018 Canada 55+ Games in New Brunswick with Nova Scotia being represented by 278 participants and 26 non-participants for an overall total of 304.

Games open to people with disabilities

The Games are for everyone. We welcome people living with disabilities in our society and in our Games. Please let us know how we can make accommodations to include you in our games! We have historically had competitors with disabilities and make it a priority to ensure they are included. As an example, we had two blind cribbage players compete in the 2007 NS 55+ Games.

Please feel free to reach out to the Host Committee or us to chat with us to learn more about accommodations!

Important documents

Letter Regarding 2019 Changes to Women’s Hockey

Game Rules

Regulations & Courtesies

Harassment, Discrimination, and Safety Policy

Appeals Form