Welcome to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, a monumental celebration of ability and inclusion set against the backdrop of the beautiful Twin Cities. Our mission is to create an inclusive event that celebrates ABILITY, delivers the highest quality experiences for all who participate, and leaves a legacy of positive change in Minnesota.
The Games are scheduled to take place from June 20-26, 2026, at the prestigious University of Minnesota, the official host venue. In addition to the university, the event will unfold across other premier locations, including the National Sports Center in Blaine.
We anticipate the participation of 3,000 athletes and 1,500 coaches representing all 50 states, engaging in 16 Special Olympics team and individual sports (both traditional and Unified, where people with and without intellectual disabilities compete together). The event will be supported by a dedicated team of over 10,000 volunteers with an enthusiastic audience of 75,000 fans cheering on the inspiring athletes.
For more information about each sport, visit the 2026 USA Games website.
Some highlights of the week include the following:
- Law Enforcement Torch Run: The excitement for the 2026 USA Games begins 2-3 weeks in advance with the Law Enforcement Torch Run. Law enforcement members, alongside Special Olympics athletes, will carry the “Flame of Hope” across key markets, creating a sense of anticipation and unity leading up to the Opening Ceremony.
- The Flame of Hope is coming to Mall of America on Thursday, June 18th! Click here to learn more.
- Opening and Closing Ceremonies: The Opening Ceremony promises to be a spectacular event, with an anticipated sold-out stadium. Witness the inspiring Parade of Athletes, the lighting of the cauldron, compelling speeches, live musical performances by Demi Lovato and Jon Batiste, and the symbolic passing of the torch at the end of the week during the Closing Ceremony.
- Fan Zones: A Fan Zone is a high-energy area where Special Olympics athletes, families, and fans can come together with the entire local community to collectively celebrate the excitement of the Games and the spirit of the mission beyond the field of play. When you enter a Fan Zone, you are never far from interactive entertainment like activity stations, partner activations, and live performances, as well as opportunities to grab food and beverages or official Games merchandise. Everyone is invited to show up and experience the energy firsthand!
- The MDI Fan Zone is the go-to place to get in on the USA Games action at Mall of America, click here to learn more!
- The MDI Fan Zone is the go-to place to get in on the USA Games action at Mall of America, click here to learn more!
Join us for an extraordinary week filled with athleticism, camaraderie, and the spirit of inclusivity. The 2026 USA Games aims to create lasting memories and a positive legacy that extends far beyond the event itself. We invite you to be a part of this transformative experience, celebrating the abilities of all and fostering positive change in Minnesota.
