The Twin Cities are getting ready to host one of the biggest athletic events of the year: The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. The event will take place June 20–26, 2026, and will bring together athletes, families, coaches, and disability advocates from across the country. The Games celebrate athletic greatness and inclusion. They are also a reminder that people with disabilities belong in every part of everyday life.

Athletic showcase

More than 3,000 athletes from all 50 states will compete over the seven days. They are expected to be supported by over 1,500 coaches and caregivers from other states. The games will feature 16 team and individual sports: Athletics (track and field), basketball, bocce, bowling, competitive cheer, cornhole, flag football, golf, gymnastics, pickleball, powerlifting, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, and volleyball.
Minnesota will also have a strong hometown presence, with more than 189 athletes representing the state in front of local crowds.

“Local fans should definitely make a point to catch the basketball and flag football competitions,” said Jessica Poole, director of communications for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. “These teams have a deep legacy of excellence here (in Minnesota), and the atmosphere in the stands is always electric.”

World-class venues, Minnesota values

To host an event of this scale, organizers are utilizing two major Twin Cities venues: the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis and the National Sports Center in Blaine.

The University of Minnesota will serve as the central hub for the Games. Student housing will become an athlete village like those used during the Olympic Games. The village will sit just steps away from competition facilities such as the Jean K. Freeman Aquatic Center and Huntington Bank Stadium.

Many games and competitions will take place at the National Sports Center in Blaine. Known as one of the world’s largest amateur sports facilities, the complex has the space to host multiple sports simultaneously.

According to Poole, having these major venues ensures that “every athlete competes on a professional-grade stage.”

For competitors, the week will be filled with athletic events, opportunities to meet athletes and new friends from around the country, and access to wellness programs and health services.

Must-see events

For spectators hoping to experience the spirit of the Games firsthand, Poole highlighted several must-see events:

• Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg: The “Guardians of the Flame” will escort the Flame of Hope into the Twin Cities, continuing a decades-long partnership between law enforcement and Special Olympics athletes.

• Opening Ceremony: Scheduled for June 20 at Huntington Bank Stadium, the ceremony will feature the Parade of Athletes along with performances by Demi Lovato and Jon Batiste.

• Powerlifting at Northrop: Fans can witness the intensity and emotion of one of the Games’ most competitive events, where crowds often erupt during major lifts.

How you can get involved

Minnesota previously hosted the Special Olympics World Summer Games in 1991, and organizers say community involvement will once again play a major role in the success of the event.

Thousands of volunteers will be needed throughout the week. Organizers are seeking help with hospitality, transportation, medical support, and early-morning event operations. Medical professionals, including dentists, audiologists, and physical therapists, will also help staff the Healthy Athletes program, which aims to provide more than 15,000 free health screenings.

All sporting events will be free and open to the public. Organizers hope Minnesotans will fill the stands and create a welcoming atmosphere for athletes and visitors alike. While competitions are free, tickets will be required for the Opening Ceremony and select special events.

Readers looking to learn more, follow updates, or sign up to volunteer can visit the official website at 2026usagames.org.

Social media updates are also available on:

• Instagram and TikTok: @2026usagames
• X: @2026USAGames
• Facebook and LinkedIn: Search: 2026 Special Olympics USA Games