‘Power Of Inclusion’: Special Olympics USA Opener: Demi Lovato, Jon Batiste
Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 05:13PM By Barry Janoff
Photo credit: Jane Dylan CodyMay 15, 2026: The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games— which in June will feature some 3,000 athletes from all 50 states competing in 16 Olympic-type team and individual sports — has added two more players: Demi Lovato and Jon Batiste.
Lovato and Batiste are scheduled to perform during the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games on June 20 in Huntington Bank Stadium.
The planned two-and-a-half-hour ceremony — scheduled to feature separate performances from Lovato and Batiste — begins the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, taking place June 20–26 across Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Special Olympics USA said Lovato, “known for her advocacy and championing individuality, will bring an electrifying performance of fan-favorite hits.”
“I’ve always believed that being unapologetically who you are is the most powerful thing you can do,” Lovato said via Special Olympics USA. “I’m so honored to be part of a night that celebrates these athletes who embody their strength and individuality every day."
Special Olympics USA said Batiste — “whose ‘Stay Human’ philosophy centers on connection and shared experience — will perform a set designed to bring the entire stadium together.”
"I am incredibly honored to curate and perform for the Special Olympics USA Games Opening Ceremony,” Batiste said via Special Olympics USA. “Let's celebrate the power of inclusion and the indomitable spirit of the incredible athletes competing this year."
Competitions will be held at the University of Minnesota and the National Sports Center in Blaine, with more than 100,000 people expected throughout the week. (See the full schedule here.)
The Games will conclude June 26 with a free Closing Ceremony in Huntington Bank Stadium, described as a “celebratory finale featuring entertainment and the symbolic passing of the torch to the next host city,” 2030 Cleveland.
“This June, we aren’t just hosting a sporting event, we’re celebrating the opportunity to bring people together and showcase the power of inclusion,” Christy Sovereign, President and CEO of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, said via the organization.
“Minnesotans have a reputation for showing up, and whether it’s to volunteer or cheer, these Fan Zones provide the perfect place to convene. We want everyone, from neighbors down the street to visitors from across the country, to experience the energy and heart of these Games firsthand. If you’re looking for a place to belong this summer, you’ll find it here.”
The USA Games co-presenting partners are Jersey Mike's Subs and UnitedHealthcare,
This past March 25, Jersey Mike's donated 100% of its sales that day to the Special Olympics Games USA and local state programs attending the Games. 
Partners also include Accenture, Ameriprise Financial, Bank of America, Coca-Cola, Dairy Queen, ESPN, FanDuel, JPMorganChase, Mall of America, Microsoft, Nike, Red Baron, Target, Toro, UNRL premium athletic and lifestyle brand based in St. Paul and Wells Fargo. (See full list here.)
Visitors can also experience Fan Zones and community events designed to “bring them closer to the athletes and the mission behind the movement.”
The Games will host three free Fan Zones — being called “high-energy gathering spaces where fans can celebrate the athletes, engage with the Games, and be part of the action beyond competition.”
• Thrivent Fan Fest (University of Minnesota) located in the Maroon Lot outside Huntington Bank Stadium. The 50,000-square-foot space will have nearly 30 partners and include host activations, giveaways and photo opportunities.
• Fredrikson Fan Zone at National Sports Center, Blaine.
• MDI Fan Zone at Mall of America, Bloomington.
Back to Home Page