Opening Ceremony

The Opening Ceremony is a thrilling celebration that will officially kick off the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. This hallmark event is a time for athletes to celebrate their participation in the USA Games with their delegations and families, as well as volunteers, honored guests, and fans. Held at Huntington Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota, the Opening Ceremony programming will include the Parade of Athletes, honoring all 52 delegations, as well as the lighting of the 2026 USA Games’ unique cauldron—the culmination of the historic Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg—signifying the official start of the Games.

The two-and-a-half-hour ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature separate performances from Demi Lovato and Jon Batiste, punctuating the evening’s large-scale production with signature moments throughout the celebration, alongside large-scale entertainment and traditions at the heart of the Special Olympics movement.

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When:

Saturday, June 20th, 2026
Doors Open: 4:30pm
Ceremony Begins: 6:30pm

Where:

Huntington Bank Stadium
University of Minnesota
Venue is ADA-accessible

Tickets:

Opening Ceremony is a ticketed event
Price: $26 (plus fees and taxes)
Tickets sold online and on site

Beyond Sports

Where Will Opening Ceremony Be Held?

Opening Ceremony will be held at Huntington Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota.

March 19, 2026 11:00 AM

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Meet Our Musical Acts

I’ve always believed that being unapologetically who you are is the most powerful thing you can do. I’m so honored to be part of a night that celebrates these athletes who embody their strength and individuality every day.

Demi Lovato

I am incredibly honored to curate and perform for the Special Olympics USA Games Opening Ceremony. Let’s celebrate the power of inclusion and the indomitable spirit of the incredible athletes competing this year.

Jon Batiste

What to Expect

Expect some of the following highlights at Opening Ceremony:

Pre-Show: Before the ceremony, we will put on a Pre-Show to get everyone pumped up and ready for the athletes’ grand entrance.
Parade of Athletes: Feel the roar of the stadium as all 52 delegations take the floor to be honored by fans and families, culminating in a massive homecoming welcome for Team Minnesota as the host delegation enters last.
“Calling All Champions” Creative Segment: Experience an awe-inspiring, inclusive performance featuring local artists that bridges the 35-year legacy of the 1991 World Games with the vibrant spirit of today, uniting our history and our future in one spectacular show.
Lighting of the Cauldron: Witness the emotional conclusion of the Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg as the Flame of Hope enters the stadium and is passed to an athlete to light the one-of-a-kind Minnesota cauldron, officially signaling the start of the Games.
Live Musical Performances: Award-winning artists Demi Lovato and Jon Batiste will appear as part of the celebration marking the official start of the 2026 USA Games.

Join thousands of fans and families as we ignite the spirit of the Games and cheer on the country’s most inspiring champions. Experience Opening Ceremony live at the stadium!