UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State and Happy Valley will welcome more than 8,000 amateur athletes and supporters of all ages as the region hosts the 2026 State Games of America and Pennsylvania Senior Games.
Held July 24 through Aug. 2, the biennial event will bring together participants representing State Games programs from across the country to compete in 50 sports. The State Games of America, one of the nation’s largest Olympic-style, amateur sports festivals, is jointly hosted by the Keystone State Games in partnership with the National Congress of State Games, Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance, Happy Valley Adventure Bureau and Penn State.
"The games represent an incredible opportunity to showcase everything that makes Happy Valley special, from our world-class venues and passionate volunteers to the welcoming community that defines this region," said Eric Engelbarts, president and CEO of Happy Valley Adventure Bureau. "We're excited to welcome thousands of athletes and their families to experience not only elite competition, but the hospitality and sense of community that make Happy Valley a destination unlike any other.”
Penn State’s athletic facilities will play center stage for a variety of events, including the Natatorium, Pegula Ice Arena and Intramural Building, among other locations throughout Centre County.
"Hosting the games represents another opportunity to strengthen its partnerships with community organizations while demonstrating the University's role as an anchor institution that contributes to the economic vitality and quality of life across Pennsylvania,” said Julian Morales, director of local government and community relations.
The Opening Ceremony will take place on Friday, July 31, at 7:30 p.m. at the Bryce Jordan Center and is open to the public. Athletes from across the nation will participate in a spectacular Olympic-style Parade of Athletes celebrating sportsmanship, competition and the spirit of the games. The evening will also feature appearances by Olympians and distinguished guests, a performance by the internationally renowned Red Panda, interactive entertainment with the State College Spikes mascots, and the ceremonial lighting of the cauldron to officially open the 2026 games. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster at State Games of America Opening Ceremony | Bryce Jordan Center.
Spectators can attend any event by purchasing a Day Pass, which gains access to all sporting events on a specific day, or with an All-Event Credential Pass, which gains access to all events from July 24 through Aug. 2.
The State Games of America is a biannual event that is open to medalists from participating State Games programs nationwide. Athletes compete in sports ranging from basketball, soccer and volleyball, to swimming, wrestling and track and field.
For the most updated information, visit www.stategames.org.