The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games will bring nearly 3,000 athletes from all 50 states to Minnesota for a week of competition, celebration and inclusion across the Twin Cities. In addition to competitions in 16 Olympic-type sports, the Games will feature:
- Opening and Closing Ceremonies (June 20 + 26; Huntington Bank Stadium, ticketed) featuring performances from Demi Lovato and Jon Batiste, Special Olympics traditions and the official commencement and conclusion of the Games. Buy tickets ($36.00) now at: https://gophersports.evenue.net/events/SO
- Three free Fan Zones — Thrivent Fan Fest at the University of Minnesota, Fredrikson Fan Zone at the National Sports Center in Blaine and MDI Fan Zone at Mall of America — offering live entertainment, interactive experiences, celebrity appearances and family-friendly activities throughout the week.
- Young Athletes Festival: Inclusive program for children ages 2–7 designed to build confidence, skills and connection through fun and movement-based activities.
- June 22, 10:00 AM - 4:00 P.M. at Frederikson Fan Zone, NSC
- June 23, 11:00 AM- 1:00 P.M. “Toddler Tuesday” at MDI Fan Zone, Mall of America
- June 24, 9:00 AM - 2:00 P.M. at Frederikson Fan Zone, NSC
- ….and so much more!
You can find more information about all the competitions and event schedules at 2026specialolympicsusagames.org.