KISSIMMEE, Fla. (May 15, 2026) – Special Olympics Florida opened its State Summer Games on Friday night at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort with a vibrant display of fireworks, music and Disney characters amid a parade of athletes.
The focal point was the event’s Flame of Hope, escorted by more than 100 first responder vehicles as part of the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run, which began in St. Johns County and ran through all 67 Florida counties before culminating at the State Summer Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The final athlete torchbearer, Sergio Cano from Miami-Dade County, lit the cauldron inside the stadium, igniting waves of emotion, applause and fireworks.
The opening ceremony kicked off two days of intense yet heartwarming competition featuring more than 3,000 athletes and six sports amid the backdrop of The Most Magical Place On Earth, where nearly a thousand Walt Disney World cast members are expected to support the event throughout the weekend, assisting athletes, families and volunteers to create a memorable experience for all participants.
Walt Disney World Resort has partnered with Special Olympics Florida for 20 years and has hosted the State Summer Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for more than 15 years, along with other statewide Special Olympic competitions. Recently, the Disney complex hosted the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games, welcoming athletes from across the nation.
EVENT DETAILS:
What: Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games
Where: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort
When: May 15–16, 2026
ABOUT THE EVENT:
The State Summer Games bring together athletes with intellectual disabilities to compete in basketball, soccer, track and field, bocce, cycling and cheerleading. The annual event is one of Special Olympics Florida’s largest statewide competitions.