State Summer Games
June 12 @ 8:00 am – June 13 @ 5:00 pm
600 athletes from across New Hampshire will gather at the University of New Hampshire for the 2026 State Summer Games, Special Olympics New Hampshire’s largest competition of the year.
Over four exciting days, athletes will compete in four sports: athletics (track & field), bocce, swimming, and powerlifting. Beyond competition, Summer Games is a celebration of determination, friendship, inclusion, and achievement, bringing together athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, law enforcement partners, sponsors, and fans from across the Granite State.
Wednesday, June 10
The excitement begins as volunteers transform UNH into Summer Games headquarters. Competition venues come to life and preparations are made for an unforgettable weekend.
Thursday, June 11
The Summer Games atmosphere continue to take shape as volunteers, staff, and partners put the finishing touches on competition venues, Olympic Town, awards areas, and more. Throughout the day, preparations continue across campus to ensure everything is ready for Friday morning competition kick off.
In the evening, local programs from across New Hampshire begin arriving and checking in. Athletes settle in, reconnect with friends, and prepare for the exciting days ahead as the anticipation for Summer Games continues to build.
Friday, June 12
Competition officially begins with athletics, swimming, bocce, and powerlifting events taking place throughout the day. Athletes can visit Olympic Town, where they will find interactive games and activities to do between their competitive events, shop at the Special Olympics Store, and celebrate achievements at awards ceremonies on Bremner Field.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run Flame of Hope will arrive in the afternoon, helping kick off an evening filled with energy and inspiration. Between competition and Opening Ceremonies, there will be a Heroes Cup Scrimmage featuring Team Police and Team Fire who will be going head to head at the end of July at the Heroes Cup baseball game in Nashua at Holmen Stadium. The day concludes with the Parade of Athletes and Opening Ceremonies at Wildcat Stadium, where hundreds of athletes will march proudly with their local programs before the Flame of Hope is lit to officially open the Games.
Saturday, June 13
Competition continues throughout the day as athletes pursue personal bests, medals, and unforgettable memories. Athletes can continue to enjoy Olympic Town, shop the SO Store and explore the Law Enforcement Static Display on Boulder Field, visit Healthy Athletes screenings in the Victory Club within the Wildcat Stadium building, and cheer on competitors across multiple venues. The Games conclude Saturday afternoon following two days of incredible competition and celebration.
Spectators Welcome
Family members, friends, and community supporters are encouraged to attend and cheer on our athletes. Admission is free, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience the excitement, meet athletes, and witness the power of Special Olympics in action.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers are needed Wednesday through Saturday to support competition, awards, Olympic Town, set up and breakdown, and more. Whether you’re joining us for a few hours or the entire weekend, you’ll play an important role in creating an incredible experience for our athletes.
