The Special Olympics Are Coming to Cleveland in 2030

It’s official: The Special Olympics is coming to Cleveland in 2030.

On Sept. 24, leaders of the local 2030 Special Olympics USA Games Host Committee and Special Olympics North America signed a contract finalizing Cleveland as the host city for the 2030 Special Olympic USA Games. Key figures from Greater Cleveland Sports Commission and Special Olympics Ohio were also in attendance and instrumental in bringing the event to Cleveland.

“Can't wait to welcome the Special Olympics to the Land and show their athletes all the love and support Cleveland has to offer!” Mayor Justin Bibb said in a social media post. “More evidence that we are in the #ClevelandEra.”

Held every four years, the Special Olympic Games is an eight-day event that gathers more than 4,500 athletes and coaches from across the nation, as well as more than 100,000 family members and spectators. Individuals with intellectual disabilities compete in more than 16 sports, and daily programming for participants and spectators round out the week.

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, which take place in Minnesota, is the largest sporting event that year, according to the organization. Organizers predict the 2030 games could contribute more than $70 million to Cleveland’s economy. Earlier this year, the local group reported that about $10 million had already been raised to support the event, and as of this week, 11,000 volunteers and attendees have signed up to participate.

"The overwhelming support from our community has been instrumental in bringing the 2030 USA Games to Cleveland. This event will not only generate meaningful economic impact, but more importantly, it will bring people together in a profound way — celebrating ability, perseverance, and inclusion,” said David Gilbert, president and CEO of Greater Cleveland Sports Commission and Destination Cleveland, in a press release. “Cleveland is a city with heart, and we are ready to welcome athletes, families, and fans with open arms.”

In 2024, the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission found itself in a competitive bid for this very privilege. In February, the Special Olympics North America narrowed the two finalists to Nashville and Cleveland. The organization was attracted to Cleveland’s history of hosting world-class events, such as the NBA Finals, MLB World Series and both professional leagues’ all-star games, among others.

This event once again gives Northeast Ohio the chance to showcase itself as a premier event destination.

“With its rich history of civic pride and volunteerism, Cleveland is poised to create a Games that not only highlights the extraordinary talents of our athletes, but also leaves a lasting legacy of inclusion, accessibility, and acceptance for generations to come." says Greg Epperson, regional president and managing director, Special Olympics North America.