Join Us

This summer, more than 1,200 athletes with intellectual disabilities from across England, Scotland and Wales will come together for the Special Olympics GB National Summer Games 2026. This is our biggest national celebration of sport, inclusion and community since 2017. 

Across 21 days of competition and 15 sports, athletes will compete with pride, passion and determination at events across Great Britain, culminating in a major four-day, multi-sport event in Birmingham across August Bank Holiday weekend. 

Come and see what our athletes can do 

The Special Olympics GB National Summer Games are a celebration of everything our athletes can achieve when they are given the opportunity to thrive. 

Whether you’re a sports fan, family looking for an inspiring day out, volunteer, supporter or simply curious to experience the incredible atmosphere of Special Olympics GB, we’d love you to join us.  

Single-sport National Summer Games competitions across Great Britain 

Supporters and spectators are warmly encouraged to attend our Special Olympics GB National Summer Games single sport events taking place across the country this summer. 

Come along, cheer athletes on and experience the joy, determination and community spirit that make Special Olympics so special.

For further information about attending any of the above events, please contact the relevant Competition Manager, details of which can be found on our Event Calendar. 

 

Birmingham multi-sport National Summer Games event

Thursday 27th – Sunday 30th August 2026

The Special Olympics GB National Summer Games 2026 will culminate in Birmingham with four unforgettable days of competition, celebration and community.

Divisioning & Training – Thursday 27 August

Opening Ceremony – 6pm

Join us for a joyous Opening Ceremony featuring:

  • Athlete parade
  • The Flame of Hope
  • Entertainment and live performances
  • Celebration moments and special guests 

Competition – Friday 28th August to Sunday 30th August

Come and experience the excitement of live competition across venues including:

  • Alexander Stadium (athletics)
  • GMAC (rhythmic gymnastics, artistic gymnastics, MATP (Saturday Only)
  • High Performance Centre - next to GMAC (football)
  • Wyndley Leisure Centre (swimming, boccia)

The Games offers a brilliant day out with family and friends over the August bank holiday weekend - full of energy, emotion and unforgettable moments.

Closing Ceremony – 4pm Sunday 30th August

Celebrate the achievements of athletes from across Great Britain as we bring the Games to a close together.

Come and Spectate the Games in Birmingham

Tickets are now available to purchase for the Games in Birmingham.

You can secure your tickets now using the link below!

Secure your Tickets Here

Athlete Experience Event Guide

Thank you to all of our partners for your incredible support

 

Headline partner

Coca-Cola GB 

Official sponsors

Fuller’s, Smith and Turner 

Toyota GB  

Co-op

Supporters

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners 

Law Enforcement Torch Run 

Mitsubishi Electric UK 

Nestle Health 

Ocean Outdoor 

UPS   

Thanks to

Rocca 

Orion Security Print 

Sports & Recreation Alliance

Studio Zenko