Happy Valley, PA preparing to welcome athletes from across the nation for the State Games of America
Photo of Red Panda, courtesy of Farallon Entertainment
Influx of visitors expected for the multi-sport festival Red Panda to perform at public, Olympic-style opening ceremony Volunteers needed
State College, PA, July 13, 2026 – The Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance (HVSEA) and The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) are gearing up to welcome more than 8,000 athletes and their families from across the country when the State Games of America come to Happy Valley, PA July 24 to Aug. 2.
Powered by the National Congress of State Games and hosted by the Keystone State Games, this Olympic-style multi-sport festival will bring athletes from across the nation to compete in more than 40 sports.
“Hosting the State Games of America is an incredible opportunity to showcase the very best of Centre County and the region,” said Eric Engelbarts, President and CEO of The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau and the Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance. “We look forward to welcoming participating athletes from more than 40 states, along with their families, coaches and spectators for what will be a memorable and exciting celebration of sports competition and community in a place known for its proud sports tradition.”
Engelbarts said the State Games of America will create a significant influx of visitors. Businesses can expect increased activity as participants and spectators explore local restaurants, shops, attractions, and accommodations between competitions.
Sports competitions will take place at multiple venues throughout the county and the Penn State University Campus. The official Opening Ceremony, which is open to the public, will take place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 31, at the Bryce Jordan Center. The ceremony will kick off with the Parade of Athletes and culminating with the iconic lighting of the cauldron.
The exciting evening will also feature Red Panda, the world-renowned acrobatic performer best known for her appearances at NBA games and on America’s Got Talent. In addition, there will be interactive activities with local mascots, appearances by athletic figures from across Pennsylvania and more. Tickets for the opening ceremony are available online on the BJC website.
Engelbarts said more than two years of planning has gone into bringing the State Games of America to Happy Valley, PA.
“We encourage the community to embrace the games in a big way much like we see every year with IRONMAN®,” he said. “The State Games of America will again put Happy Valley and amazing Happy Valley hospitality in the national spotlight. Let’s show our visitors what makes this place so special!”
Competition schedules, venue information, and additional event details can be found at www.stategames.org.
For more information, including volunteer opportunities, please contact HVSEA Event Manager Meghan Boyle at MeghanB@happyvalley.com.