New Jersey is preparing to welcome athletes from across the state to showcase their talent, determination, and sportsmanship at the 2026 Special Olympics Winter Games. This annual event brings together participants of all ages to compete in a variety of winter and indoor sports, offering not only an opportunity for competition but also a celebration of community, inclusion, and achievement.
The Winter Games feature a diverse range of sports including alpine skiing, snowboarding, figure skating, floor hockey, volleyball, and pickleball, with cornhole presented as an exhibition event. Athletes begin training as early as December, participating in local and regional competitions that lead up to the state-level Winter Games. This progression ensures that each athlete is prepared for the excitement of statewide competition while building skills, confidence, and lasting friendships along the way.
Events are spread across multiple locations to accommodate both indoor and outdoor sports. Alpine skiing and snowboarding will take place at Mountain Creek in Vernon, offering athletes the thrill of the slopes and a chance to test their speed and agility. Figure skating competitions are slated for Codey Arena in West Orange, providing a showcase for grace, precision, and creativity on ice. Volleyball matches are hosted at Galloway Township Middle School, while floor hockey competitions take place at Stockton University, highlighting teamwork and strategy in a fast-paced environment. Pickleball matches, increasingly popular among athletes, will be held at Pickle House in Robbinsville.
The Winter Games also celebrate young athletes, offering programs specifically designed for early engagement in sports and physical activity. These sessions, scheduled at Stockton University, encourage children with intellectual disabilities to explore movement, develop coordination, and experience the joy of participating in organized sports. The focus on young athletes ensures that the Special Olympics pipeline remains strong and that every individual has access to a supportive and empowering athletic environment from the start.
Beyond the main competitions, the Special Olympics calendar in New Jersey is packed with county-level bowling tournaments and basketball leagues spanning nearly every region of the state. These events, running from January through February, provide additional competitive opportunities for athletes while fostering a sense of local pride and camaraderie. Bowling tournaments are held at venues ranging from Lucky Strike in Green Brook to Ocean Lanes in Lakewood, while basketball leagues take place in schools and community centers across North, Central, East, and South New Jersey.
The 2026 Winter Games, like all Special Olympics events, are made possible through the dedication of volunteers, coaches, families, and community supporters. Residents are encouraged to attend as spectators, cheerleaders, or participants in volunteer roles, helping to create an energetic and inclusive atmosphere that celebrates athletic achievement and human spirit. These events also include fundraising and educational components, connecting communities to the mission of supporting athletes year-round.
For those interested in learning more about Special Olympics events, volunteer opportunities, or ways to support athletes across the state, additional information is available through Explore New Jersey’s Special Olympics coverage. These resources provide insights into upcoming competitions, local program areas, and community initiatives that make New Jersey a leader in inclusive sports programming.
The 2026 Winter Games promise an inspiring display of talent, determination, and joy. With competitions across skiing, skating, hockey, volleyball, pickleball, and more, New Jersey’s athletes are ready to shine, and the state’s residents are invited to witness and celebrate their extraordinary achievements.
