Big Events Coming to Happy Valley in 2026, Mark Your Calendars!
Happy Valley is gearing up for a blockbuster year in 2026, welcoming thousands of athletes, families, and fans for some of the biggest sporting events in Pennsylvania and beyond. From packed arenas in March to endurance racing and multi-sport celebrations all summer long, here’s what’s coming and why you won’t want to miss it.
Keystone State Wrestling Championships — March 13–15, 2026
The Bryce Jordan Center will once again transform into a wrestling powerhouse as the Keystone State Wrestling Championships return to Happy Valley. This massive event brings more than 3,000 wrestlers from across Pennsylvania, competing across multiple age groups and divisions.
With nonstop action on the mats and thousands of family members and fans in attendance, Keystone States is one of the largest youth wrestling tournaments in the Commonwealth and a signature March event for the region.
Where: Bryce Jordan Center, State College
When: March 13–15, 2026
Pennsylvania Middle School State Basketball Championships — March (Girls & Boys)
March basketball excitement tips off in Happy Valley with the Pennsylvania Middle School State Basketball Championships, featuring 400+ teams from across the state.
Games will be played across multiple premier venues in the State College area, filling gyms with energy, school pride, and championship-level competition. This tournament is one of the largest middle school basketball events in Pennsylvania and a major draw for families and fans.
Where: Multiple venues throughout State College
When: March 13–15 and March 20–22, 2026
UTMB by Rothrock — May 16–17, 2026
Trail running takes center stage in May as UTMB by Rothrock makes its debut on the iconic trails of Rothrock State Forest, continuing the long-standing traditions of the Rothrock Trail Challenge. As part of the UTMB World Series, this new event elevates Happy Valley’s trail running legacy to the global stage.
The course showcases the region’s rugged terrain and stunning scenery, offering challenging race distances for elite and amateur runners alike.
Looking to race? Registration is open now.
Want to be part of the action? Volunteer opportunities are coming soon.
Whether you are racing, crewing, or cheering from the trails, UTMB by Rothrock promises an unforgettable outdoor experience in the heart of Central Pennsylvania.
Where: Rothrock State Forest
When: May 16–17, 2026
IRONMAN 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley North American Championship — June 14, 2026
Ready to race with the pros? The IRONMAN 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley returns in 2026 as the North American Championship, bringing elite professionals and top age-group athletes to Centre County.
The race features a swim at Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, a scenic and challenging bike ride through Central Pennsylvania, and a run through Penn State’s iconic campus with a finish near Beaver Stadium.
Athlete registration is open now.
Volunteer recruitment is coming soon.
This premier endurance event draws athletes and spectators from across North America and is one of the most anticipated sporting weekends of the year in Happy Valley.
Where: State College & Centre County
When: June 14, 2026
State Games of America — July 28-August 2, 2026
Fresh off hosting a national championship event in June, Happy Valley keeps the spotlight through the summer, welcoming thousands more athletes as competition continues on a national level.
Happy Valley will take the national stage in summer 2026 as it hosts the State Games of America, continuing on a national level the Olympic-style multi-sport tradition that brings together athletes from across the United States.
Competitors qualify by medaling in their state games, and with more than 30 sports on the schedule, venues throughout State College and Centre County will be buzzing with competition all week long.
Want to get in on the action? Join us for the State Games of America Opening Ceremony on July 31 at the Bryce Jordan Center, hosted by the Happy Valley Sports and Entertainment Alliance. This celebration brings athletes, families, and the community together to kick off an unforgettable week of competition. Tickets are available now.
Volunteer opportunities are also available, sign up today!
Where: Penn State and regional venues
When: July 28–August 2, 2026
Opening Ceremony: July 31, 2026 at the Bryce Jordan Center
Together, these events highlight the wide range of competitions and experiences coming to Happy Valley in 2026, all made possible through the efforts of the Happy Valley Sports and Entertainment Alliance to attract premier events to the region. While these events are hosted by national and state organizations, HVSEA continues to work behind the scenes to bring them to Happy Valley. In addition, 2026 events hosted directly by HVSEA are in development and will be announced very soon. Stay tuned for more exciting updates!