Mecklenburg County Opens Registration for 2026 Senior Games & SilverArts

Mecklenburg County has started sign-ups for the 2026 Senior Games and SilverArts. This Olympic-style contest runs from March through May. Adults 50 and up who've lived in North Carolina for three straight months within the past year can join more than 50 sports and arts contests.

"Whether you're 55 or 95, there's an event for you at the Senior Games and SilverArts competitions," Nick Walker said, according to county news. "We can't wait to see everyone at the local games, which promise to be the best we've ever held."

Sports contests include bowling, cycling, golf, swimming, and track and field. Backyard games? Think cornhole, horseshoes, and bocce. Racket sports bring tennis, badminton, and pickleball into the mix. SilverArts honors writers, painters, performers, heritage artists, and cheerleading squads.

Those who qualify can move up to the North Carolina Senior Games and SilverArts State Finals in fall 2026. Winners there might head to national games in 2027. Walker wants a big turnout from his county.

"We want Mecklenburg County to show up and show out at the 2026 North Carolina games, and we know our seniors have the talent, passion, and sportsmanship that can take us there," Walker said. "To help us reach this goal and break our local participation records, we're calling for all eligible seniors to join the fun and register today!"

Early bird sign-ups run through Jan. 23. County residents pay $20 online or $25 by paper. Those living outside the county will pay $23 online or $28 by paper. Standard registration kicks off Jan. 24 and runs through Feb. 20, with costs jumping to $30 online or $35 by paper for residents and $33 online or $38 by paper for nonresidents.

Money's tight? Scholarships exist. To ask about financial aid, call 980-314-1328.

Organizers need volunteers ages 16 and up. They want help at the opening ceremony on March 21, plus at pickleball, badminton, basketball shooting, cornhole, swimming, table tennis, and track and field. Interested? Create an online profile in Park and Recreation's volunteer registration system.