St. John’s is gearing up to host the Canada Games after a 48-year hiatus. Athletes, families, and fans nationwide will gather in Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital from August 8 to 25 for the event. St. John’s last held the summer games in 1977, a decade after the inaugural Canada Games in 1967.
The city’s appeal as a Canada Games host lies in its community spirit and picturesque location. Over 5,400 locals have volunteered for the Games, showcasing significant community involvement. Karen Sherriffs, CEO of the Canada Games host society, emphasized the enthusiastic and electric atmosphere created by the event, highlighting the long-lasting impact it will have on the community.
The 2025 Canada Games in St. John’s will feature several firsts, including the introduction of a dedicated app called the “St. John’s 2025 Canada Games” app. This innovative app, available on both Apple Store and Google Play, provides comprehensive information about the Games, including schedules, interactive maps, and team details.
With more than 4,200 athletes participating in 19 sports and 12 disciplines, the 2025 edition is set to be the largest in history. Noteworthy additions to the sports program include Para cycling and a female baseball tournament, marking significant milestones for the Canada Games.
The inclusive sports schedule offers 115 events for both male and female athletes, along with seven mixed events. The compact layout of St. John’s venues allows athletes to easily support their teammates across various sports, fostering team spirit and excitement throughout the event.
The Canada Games Council chair anticipates that the Games will inspire future generations of athletes and promote community pride. The event is expected to attract around 5,000 athletes, coaches, and managers to St. John’s, with an additional 10,000 to 15,000 visitors expected to explore the city during the Games.
Mayor Danny Breen highlighted St. John’s compactness, ease of navigation, and warm hospitality as key attractions for visitors. He encouraged guests to immerse themselves in the city’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty, emphasizing the willingness of locals to assist and guide visitors during their stay.