GATLINBURG, TN (January 22, 2026) – Special Olympics Tennessee has made the difficult decision to postpone the 2026 State Winter Games, originally scheduled for January 25 to 27, 2026, in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, due to a winter storm expected to impact the region. Special Olympics Tennessee is actively exploring rescheduling portions of the competition to a later date.
State Winter Games, presented by Wellpoint Tennessee, is an annual multi-sport event that brings together athletes from across the state to compete in skiing, snowboarding, speed skating, and 3v3 basketball, along with related Healthy Athletes screenings and community celebrations. Host venues include Gatlinburg Convention Center, Ober Mountain and Rocky Top Sports World. For more information about the event and what it entails, please visit https://www.specialolympicstn.org/wintergames.
Out of an abundance of caution and with athlete, coach, volunteer, staff and family safety as the organization’s highest priority, Special Olympics Tennessee will not proceed with the event as planned. The predicted winter weather includes hazardous travel conditions for participants coming in from across the state, significant snow and ice, and temperatures that could pose serious risks for those traveling to and participating in competition venues.
“While our community looks forward to every State Winter Games, the projected weather conditions create a situation where participant safety cannot be assured,” said Adam Germek, President and CEO of Special Olympics Tennessee. “This was not a decision made lightly. Our athletes, coaches, families, and volunteers are the heart of this organization, and their well-being is our top concern.”
Updates regarding potential rescheduled events, registration adjustments, and related communications will be shared directly with registered athletes, coaches, families, heads of delegation and posted on the organization’s website and social channels as they become available.
Special Olympics Tennessee extends its deepest gratitude to the athletes, families, volunteers, sponsors, partners, officials, and host venues for their support and understanding during this unprecedented weather situation.
For the latest updates, visit www.specialolympicstn.org or follow Special Olympics Tennessee on social media.