Top 10 Activities at Summer Games
Summer Games encompasses the things we love most: family, friends, and summer fun. While you gear up for the heat of competition throughout Bloomington-Normal, don’t forget to add these extra activities to your to-do list.
1. Young Athletes Statewide Culminating Event
Witness the joy of our Young Athletes program as kids ages 2-7 with and without intellectual disabilities participate in a series of obstacles on Friday, June 9 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Hancock Stadium.
2. Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg
Members of Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run will complete their week-long, intrastate relay, carrying the Flame of Hope to its final destination of Opening Ceremony on Friday, June 9. Officers will run from The Shoppes at College Hills to Hancock Stadium starting at 6:30 PM.
3. Healthy Athletes
Athletes may take part in one of the four disciplines offered at Redbird Arena on Friday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Don’t miss the hydration station located outside of Redbird Arena, as well as sun safety officers handing out packets of sunscreen throughout Illinois State University’s (ISU) campus.
4. Opening Ceremony
Often considered the highlight of Summer Games, Opening Ceremony will include the Parade of Athletes, Athlete Oath, special guest speakers, live entertainment, and the famous lighting of the Flame of Hope. The event kicks off at Hancock Stadium at 8:00 PM, but athletes and coaches may begin assembling at 7:00 PM for the parade.
5. eSports Stations
Step out of the sun and take part in our virtual eSports activities. Events include eSports Expo at Normal Community High School on Saturday, June 10 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and eSports Mobile Unit at Olympic Town on Saturday, June 10 from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
6. Olympic Town
Open at ISU’s Turner Hall Parking Lot on Saturday, June 10 from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Olympic Town will consist of family friendly activities such as a scavenger hunt, dunk tank, magician and balloon art, That Kid Place foam party, Meet the Inspired live podcast, challenge course, dance party, lip sync battle, and MORE! Be sure to stop by.
7. Souvenirs
Come get your Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games branded merchandise from Minerva Promotions at ISU’s North Gym on Friday, June 9 and Saturday, June 10 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. A percentage of sales will be given to Special Olympics Illinois.
8. Families Tailgate Picnic
Families of Special Olympics Illinois athletes are welcome to stop by the Families registration and hospitality areas, held at Horton Field House on Friday, June 9 and Saturday, June 10.Families are also encouraged to learn more about IL ABLE during the Tailgate Picnic with IL ABLE on Saturday, June 10 from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM outside of the south entrance of Horton Field House.
9. Competition
Competition will take place all throughout the weekend in seven different sports: artistic gymnastics, athletics, bocce, powerlifting, rhythmic gymnastics, soccer, and swimming. After you finish your competition, be sure to support your fellow athletes in their respective sports. View specific schedules on our event website here.
10. Victory Dance
Dance the night away on Saturday, June 10 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM in Uptown Normal. Athletes can enjoy the chance to celebrate the weekend’s accomplishments, socialize with old and new friends, and just let loose!
Learn more about what is offered at Summer Games, plus find a more detailed event schedule, by clicking here.