2025 Jeux du Canada Games Generates Over $180 Million in Economic Activity in St. John’s

Sport Tourism Canada’s Economic Impact Assessment has found that the 2025 Jeux du Canada Games generated over $272 million in total economic activity across Canada, including $180.7 million in the City of St. John’s.

The Economic Impact Assessment measures the positive change in economic activity resulting from hosting an event. It includes spending by out-of-town visitors, event organizers’ operational expenditures, and capital construction investments related to the Games.

By the numbers:

• $137.5 million in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) generated for the Canadian economy
• $69.4 million in capital expenditures
• $34.6 million in operational expenditures
• $40.1 million in total visitor spending, including:
• $15.4 million in accommodations
• $8.3 million in restaurant and other food services
• $3.7 million in retail shopping
• $56.8 million in wages and salaries supported locally
• 642 local jobs supported
• 31,873 out-of-town visitors to St. John’s
• 92.9% of visitors indicated they are likely to return to Newfoundland and Labrador

From August 8 to 25, 2025, the Canada Games brought together more than 5,000 athletes, coaches, and managers from across the country to compete in 19 sports. The Games’ success was made possible by the dedication of thousands of volunteers, staff, and partners. As the largest Canada Games to date, the event championed inclusion, celebrated local culture, and created lasting benefits for Newfoundland and Labrador.

The legacy of the 2025 Canada Games extends well beyond competition, with new and upgraded facilities, increased national exposure for St. John’s and Newfoundland and Labrador, a trained and experienced volunteer base and benefits that continue to support local businesses and community life across the province.

View the Full Economic Impact Assessment

Quotes

“Congratulations to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador for such a successful 2025 Canada Summer Games. The Government of Canada was proud to support this event. It was amazing to see firsthand how investing in sporting events like this is not just good policy, it's essential, and this report reinforces that. But these Games offered even more. They were a fantastic catalyst for strengthening communities, enhancing vital infrastructure, and most importantly, inspiring young people to get involved. It’s a true testament to the power of sport to unite and build our country.”

— The Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport) 

 

“Having the 2025 Canada Games here in St. John’s East was a proud moment for our community. We saw world-class athletic talent, the strength of our volunteers, and the spirit that makes Newfoundland and Labrador so special. A sincere congratulations to the organizers and everyone who stepped up. The legacy is real and it will last, with facilities and programs that will continue to benefit local residents for years to come.”

– The Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries, and Member of Parliament (St. John’s East)

 

"The report proves that the Canada Games had a significant impact on our province - driving business to local shops, filling hotels and restaurants, and showcasing Newfoundland and Labrador to audiences across the country. Events of this scale support jobs, build strong, vibrant communities, and create benefits that continue well beyond the closing ceremonies. We extend our sincere thanks to the Host Society, volunteers, and all committee members whose dedication and hard work made the 2025 Canada Games such a success."

— Honourable Andrea Barbour, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

 

“This report confirms that the 2025 Canada Games delivered strong economic returns for St. John’s and Newfoundland and Labrador. The investment supported local jobs, generated significant income for local businesses, welcomed tens of thousands of visitors to our city, and resulted in infrastructure improvements that will continue to benefit residents and athletes well into the future.”

— Danny Breen, Mayor of the City of St. John’s 

 

“We are thrilled to see the incredible economic impact the 2025 Canada Games had on our city,  province and country. The Games was the largest in history and it was an honour to witness firsthand how sport tourism can energize a community while leaving a lasting legacy for our youth, volunteers and future leaders.”

— Kim Keating and Karl Smith, Co-chairs of the 2025 Canada Games Host Society Board.