The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games Opening Ceremony will officially kick off a weeklong celebration of inclusion, competition and community as nearly 3,000 athletes from all 50 states gather in Minnesota. The evening will feature performances from Demi Lovato and Jon Batiste, alongside the Parade of Athletes, remarks from Special Olympics Chairman Tom Shriver and the ceremonial lighting of the cauldron to officially open the Games.
The Opening Ceremony marks the start of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, taking place June 20–26 across the Twin Cities, with competitions at the University of Minnesota and the National Sports Center in Blaine. More information can be found at 2026specialolympicsusagames.org