2026 State Games of America Opening Ceremony

Friday, July 31, 2026 | 7:30 p.m.
Bryce Jordan Center | Penn State University

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Night!

Flag Bearer Application Deadline Extended - Apply Here

The Flag Bearer Application Deadline has been extended to Tuesday, July 14, at 11:59 p.m. EDT for athletes representing the following states:

• Alaska

• Arizona

• Arkansas

• California

• Delaware

• Louisiana

• New Mexico

• North Dakota

• Oklahoma

• Rhode Island

• Vermont

• Wyoming

All other state flag bearer positions have been filled.

Please note: Submitting an application does not guarantee selection.

Ticket Information

Adult General Admission: $29.40 (includes all fees)

Youth Tickets (Ages 2-12): $18.60 (includes all fees)

Please note: Youth tickets are available for purchase once at least one adult ticket is added to the cart. Up to three youth tickets may be purchased per one adult ticket.

Children under 2: Free (must sit on a parent or guardian's lap)

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster or the Bryce Jordan Center Box Office.

Athlete Tailgate & Parade Information

Kick off the festivities at the Athlete Tailgate, held in the Bryce Jordan Center parking lot along Dauer Road before the Opening Ceremony! Athletes, friends, and family members are invited to enjoy official State Games of America merchandise, inflatables, a 360 photo booth, sponsor activations, and more before heading inside for an unforgettable evening.

Athlete Tailgate Location: Bryce Jordan Center Staff Parking Lot on Dauer Road

Tailgate Time: 6:00-7:15 p.m.

Athletes planning to march in the Parade of Athletes must arrive at the Athlete Tailgate no later than 7:10 p.m.

Athletes participating in the parade may bring their official State Games of America athlete bag into the Bryce Jordan Center. All other guests and spectators must follow the Bryce Jordan Center's clear bag policy.

Parents and guardians are welcome to march alongside their athletes in the Parade of Athletes. However, all parade participants must have a ticket to attend the Opening Ceremony.

About the Opening Ceremony

Experience the excitement as the 2026 State Games of America officially begin with an unforgettable Opening Ceremony at Penn State's Bryce Jordan Center.

More than 8,000 athletes, coaches, and families from across the country will gather in Happy Valley for one of the nation's largest amateur multi-sport events. Watch as thousands of athletes representing all 50 states march into the arena during the spectacular Parade of Athletes, celebrating the spirit of competition, unity, and sportsmanship.

Enjoy an evening filled with inspiring moments, including the Parade of Athletes featuring competitors from all 50 states, special guest appearances, a performance by world-renowned acrobat Red Panda, and the lighting of the ceremonial cauldron by Charlotte Worthington, 2020 Tokyo Olympic gold medalist in BMX freestyle. Experience the electrifying energy of athletes representing every corner of America as we officially kick off the 2026 State Games of America.

Whether you're cheering on a loved one or simply looking for an unforgettable night of entertainment, this is a celebration you won't want to miss.

Bag Policy

For the safety of all guests, the Bryce Jordan Center clear bag policy will be enforced.

• Only clear bags measuring 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller are permitted.

• Small clutch purses or wallets (no larger than 4.5" x 6.5") are allowed.

• Diaper bags are permitted when accompanied by a child.

• All bags are subject to search upon entry.

Please review the full bag policy at bjc.psu.edu/bryce-jordan-center-bag-policy before attending.

About the Bryce Jordan Center

Located on the campus of Penn State University, the Bryce Jordan Center is one of Pennsylvania's premier arenas for live entertainment, concerts, and major events. With a seating capacity of more than 15,000, it has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Zach Bryan, Drake, Jelly Roll, Travis Scott, and Taylor Swift, along with countless unforgettable performances and community celebrations. Its world-class facilities and electric atmosphere make it the perfect stage for the 2026 State Games of America Opening Ceremony.

Mark Your Calendars

Friday, July 31, 2026
Bryce Jordan Center | Penn State University