The short answer: The 2026 Florida Senior Games state championships run December 5 to 13, 2026 in Pasco County. You do not have to be a star athlete to take part in the local games that lead up to it. Many Florida cities and counties hold qualifier games this fall for adults 50 and older, and some of them are open to people from anywhere in Florida.
What Are the Florida Senior Games?
The Florida Senior Games are the state championships for adult athletes, organized by the Florida Sports Foundation. The 2026 games are December 5 to 13 in Florida's Sports Coast in Pasco County. Sports listed include archery, badminton, basketball, bowling, cycling, golf, horseshoes, pickleball, powerlifting, shuffleboard, softball, swimming, table tennis, tennis, track and field and volleyball. (Source: Florida Senior Games.) The Foundation says it sanctions local Florida Senior Games Series Qualifiers that lead to the December games.
Registration for the state games is through the state's online system. For age limits, fees and deadlines, check the official Florida Senior Games page or call the Florida Sports Foundation at (850) 577-7200. We could not find those details listed on the pages we reviewed, so we are not guessing.
Fall 2026 Local Qualifiers
The state website lists these local games that lead to the December championships. Dates, fees and deadlines change, so click through to each organizer before you sign up.
| Games | Dates | What we confirmed |
|---|---|---|
| Palm Coast and Flagler Beaches | Sept. 11 - Oct. 4 | Ages 50+. $20 per event; $40 for the 5K. Qualifier for sanctioned events only. |
| Tampa Bay Active Life Games (Hillsborough County) | Sept. 28 - Oct. 9 | Adults 50+. A regional qualifier for the Florida Senior Games. Check with the county about late registration. |
| Charlotte County Fit For Life | Oct. 3 - Nov. 1 | Ages 50+ as of Dec. 31, 2026. $10 per event. Final entry deadline is two weeks before each event. |
| Martin County Senior Games | Oct. 16 - 24 | Ages 50+. $20 to $65 by sport. Register by Oct. 15 at 2 p.m. First through fifth place in each age division qualify. |
| Ormond Beach Senior Games | Oct. 23 - 31 | Ages 50+. The city lists a Sept. 28 registration deadline, so ask the city whether spots remain. |
| Village of Pinecrest Senior Games | Nov. 2 - 6 | Dates from the state games site. Confirm details with the village. |
| Golden Age Games (Sanford) | Nov. 5 - 8 | Dates from the state games site. Confirm details with the organizer. |
| Cutler Bay Senior Games | Nov. 11 - 16 | Dates from the state games site. Confirm details with the town. |
The state site lists Palm Coast as September 12 to October 5, while the city's own page says September 11 to October 4. When two sources differ, we use the organizer's own page.
Why Sign Up
Exercise helps with balance, strength and mood, and group events make it easier to stick with a routine. Games also bring friendships. If you are new to sports, pick a low-impact event such as shuffleboard, table tennis, pickleball or swimming, and check with your doctor first. For more ideas, read Staying Active: Senior-Friendly Activities in Florida, and see health programs for older adults in Florida for classes and fitness benefits.
Also on December 5: Jacksonville Holiday Festival for Senior Citizens
The City of Jacksonville holds its Holiday Festival for Senior Citizens on December 5, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Prime Osborn Convention Center, 1000 Water Street. It is for Duval County residents age 60 and older. Tickets are $10 and are first-come, first-served. The event includes dining, dancing, entertainment, door prizes and a visit with Santa. Call (904) 255-5667 for details. (Source: City of Jacksonville.)
Find More Events
See our Florida senior events calendar and our roundup of free Florida senior events for October and November 2026. If you need a ride to an event, read about elderly transportation services.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, financial, or legal advice. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns, a financial advisor for financial planning, and an attorney for legal matters. The resources and programs mentioned are subject to eligibility requirements and availability, which may vary. While we strive for accuracy, the information provided may not reflect the most recent updates. Always verify details with official sources or professionals before making decisions based on this content.