Provincial investment aims to drive tourism and economic growth in Eastern Ontario
The Ontario government has announced a $325,000 investment to support Brockville as the host of the 2027 Ontario 55+ Summer Games, positioning the Eastern Ontario community to benefit from increased tourism and economic activity tied to one of the province’s प्रमुख senior sporting events.
The funding, unveiled by the Ministry of Sport on April 24, 2026, is part of a broader provincial strategy aimed at strengthening local economies through sport tourism while encouraging active lifestyles among older adults.
“Our government is proud to support the 2027 Ontario 55+ Summer Games in Brockville,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “These Games reflect our commitment to strengthening communities through sport, while creating opportunities for people to participate, no matter their age. Next year, the city will welcome athletes and participants from across Ontario to compete, connect and celebrate healthy, active living and I am confident this community will deliver an unforgettable experience.”
Economic impact and tourism boost expected
The 2027 Games are projected to generate more than $1.5 million in economic impact for the region. Organizers expect over 1,000 participants, including athletes and officials, to travel from across Ontario to compete in up to 17 sports and activities, such as pickleball, slo-pitch, and tennis.
The influx of visitors is expected to benefit local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retailers, while also showcasing Brockville’s waterfront and tourism offerings to a wider provincial audience.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Brockville to welcome participants and visitors from across Ontario,” said Matt Wren, Mayor of Brockville. “Hosting the 2027 Ontario 55+ Summer Games will bring meaningful economic impact while showcasing our community as a vibrant and welcoming destination. We look forward to highlighting our local businesses, waterfront and strong sense of community.”
Building community through sport
The Ontario 55+ Summer Games, held every two years, are designed to promote active living and social engagement among older adults. The event is delivered by the Ministry of Sport in partnership with the Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA).
Beyond immediate economic gains, the Games are also seen as a catalyst for long-term community development. Hosting duties provide municipalities with experience in organizing large-scale events, help build a base of trained volunteers, and encourage continued participation in sport and recreation.
“Congratulations to the City of Brockville for its winning bid to host the 2027 Ontario 55+ Summer Games. Sport creates community while keeping Ontario’s seniors active and socially connected. Our government is pleased to support this event as it brings together seniors from all over Ontario, giving them a great opportunity for friendly competition, companionship and connection.”
- Raymond Cho
Minister for Seniors and Accessibility
Local provincial representation also emphasized the broader tourism and economic benefits tied to the event.
“Sports are an important part of Brockville’s past and present, and I’m thrilled that our government is investing $325,000 to support the city in hosting the 2027 Ontario 55+ Summer Games. Bringing more than 1,000 participants to our community is an incredible opportunity to showcase everything our beautiful region has to offer. This will give a tremendous boost to our tourism economy next summer and for years to come.”
- Steve Clark
MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes
Part of broader provincial sport strategy
The Ontario government selects host communities for its multi-sport Games through a competitive bidding process. These include youth-focused Ontario Summer and Winter Games, the Ontario 55+ Summer and Winter Games, and the Ontario Parasport Games.
Bidding is currently open for the 2029 Ontario Parasport Games and the 2029 Ontario 55+ Summer Games, with expressions of interest due by May 15, 2026.
In addition to event funding, the province is investing $500 million through its Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund to upgrade and expand facilities across Ontario—an effort intended to support both grassroots participation and large-scale sporting events.
Legacy and community engagement
For the Ontario Senior Games Association, Brockville’s selection builds on a history of hosting successful events and supporting active aging initiatives.
“The Ontario Senior Games Association is proud to have Brockville as host of the 2027 Ontario 55+ Summer Games. We at the OSGA look forward to being in Brockville in support of Ontario’s commitment to strengthening the social networks of seniors and promoting physical well-being. Brockville has hosted Winterfest last in 2009 as part of the OSGA’s Winter Games.”
With preparations set to ramp up over the coming year, Brockville is expected to leverage the Games not only as a short-term economic driver but also as a platform to enhance its reputation as a destination for sport tourism and community-based events in Eastern Ontario.