Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
Register now for the 43rd Alabama State Games June 12-14
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Looking for a summer competition that’s bigger than your usual tournament circuit? Mark your calendars for the 43rd Alabama State Games return June 12–14, 2026.
Registration is officially open, and more than 5,000 competitors from across the state are expected to participate in nearly 30 Olympic-style sports.
Whether you’re signing up your child for their first major competition or you’re a seasoned athlete ready for your next challenge, this is one weekend you won’t want to miss.
Register your team for the Alabama State Games 2026
Established in 1982 at the request of the United States Olympic Committee, the Alabama State Games were designed to bring Olympic-style competition to the state level. Today, the program operates under the Alabama Sports Festival Foundation and is part of the National Congress of State Games—a nationwide network that promotes health, fitness and character-building through sport.
The Opening Ceremony kicks off Friday, June 12, at Legacy Arena in Birmingham. It’s free to attend and packed with energy, celebration and scholarship drawings.
What’s new for 2026?


This year’s Games are shaping up to be the largest yet, with an expanding sports lineup.
New and returning highlights include:
- The return of bass fishing + mountain biking
- The debut of billiards, futsal, kickball + STUNT
- Fan favorites like track & field, softball, tennis + wrestling
Competitions will be hosted at premier venues across Jefferson, Shelby and St. Clair counties, including the Birmingham CrossPlex, Oak Mountain State Park and other top-tier facilities.
From baseball, swimming, soccer, chess, bowling and powerlifting, the Alabama State Games truly offer something for nearly every athlete.
More than medals: Nearly $43,000 in scholarships


Of course, the Alabama State Games aren’t just about podium finishes.
Since 1993, the ASF Foundation has awarded more than $450k in scholarships to registered athletes. In 2026 alone:
- 17 scholarships valued at $2,500 each will be awarded
- Nearly $43,000 will be distributed during the Opening Ceremony
- The total scholarship giving will climb closer to $500,000 overall
The best part? To qualify, athletes simply need to register to compete and attend the Opening Ceremony.
Growing leaders on and off the field



The Alabama State Games are built around more than athletic performance. The mission of the Alabama Sports Festival Foundation is to use sport as a vehicle to promote academics, healthy lifestyles, leadership development and good citizenship.
Programs connected to the Games include:
- The Athlete Leadership Summit, featuring retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Noah Galloway as this year’s keynote speaker
- The Student Ambassador Program, which helps high school students develop communication and leadership skills
- GRIT101 for Teens, created in partnership with Edie Hand’s Women of True Grit
- Honoring Our Heroes, which in 2026 will recognize Native Americans, veterans, active military personnel and community members making a positive impact across the state
Together, these initiatives help shape young competitors into well-rounded leaders long after the medals are awarded.
Sign up for the Alabama State Games today!
From first-time competitors to seasoned veterans, the Alabama State Games provide a stage where athletes of all ages and abilities can chase their golden goals.
If you are into baseball, swimming, wrestling, tennis, bass fishing and more, the Alabama State Games offer something for nearly every athlete. Sign up your team today!
Register today at ALAGAMES.com, and we’ll see you in June.
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