National Congress of State Games
About the State Games of America
What is it and who can participate?
The State Games of America is an Olympic-style event featuring competition between State Games medal winners (gold, silver, bronze) from across the nation. There are currently 30 states conducting or organizing statewide sports festivals known as State Games.
When is the event held?
The event is hosted every two years on the even year (i.e. 2022, 2024, 2026…).
Where is the event held?
The 2026 State Games of America will be held in State College, PA.
| Previous Host Cities | Year | Number of Sports | Guest Cauldron Lighter |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis, MO | 1999 | 15 | Jackie Joyner Kersey |
| St. Louis, MO | 2001 | 15 | Jackie Joyner Kersey |
| Hartford, CT | 2003 | 15 | Suzy Whaley (Pro Golfer) |
| Colorado Springs, CO | 2005 | 24 | Rulon Gardner |
| Colorado Springs, CO | 2007 | 29 | Michelle Kwan |
| Colorado Springs, CO | 2009 | 31 | Henry Cejudo |
| San Diego, CA | 2011 | 24 | Evan Pittman (FL Athlete) |
| Hershey-Harrisburg, PA | 2013 | 29 | |
| Lincoln, NE | 2015 | 53 | Lolo Jones and Jordan Burroughs |
| Grand Rapids, MI | 2017 | 48 | Mackenzie Woodring |
| Lynchburg, VA | 2019 | 37 | Dot Richardson |
| Ames-Des Moines, IA | 2022* | 40 | Lisa Koll-Uhl and David Carr |
| San Diego, CA | 2024 | 27 | Willie Banks |
| State College, PA | 2026 | TBA | TBA |
*2021 State Games of America was postponed due to State Games across the country being canceled due to COVID-19
What’s next?
The negotiations finalizing the 2028 State Games of America host are underway.
The 2030 State Games of America host as been finalized. Please read more here about the host city, Salt Lake City.
Next Bidding Opportunity
Interested in hosting the 2032 or 2034 State Games of America? Bidding for the 2032 State Games of America will begin in 2029.
Use our Contact Form to request more information or ask questions.
What sports are offered?
The number of sports hosted in a State Games competition varies depending on the host city.
