President Donald Trump announced plans for a “Patriot Games” athletic competition as part of the Freedom 250 initiatives to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding in 2026.
The big picture: The first-ever Patriot Games will be a four-day event featuring top high school athletes – one young man and one young woman – from each U.S. state and territory.
- The Patriot Games are set to take place in the fall of 2026.
What he’s saying: Trump stated in a video that “there will be no men playing in women’s sports,” referencing his administration’s stance on transgender athletes in women’s competitions.
What we’re watching: Additional celebrations planned for 2026 include a “Great American State Fair” on the National Mall (June 25–July 10), an Independence Day event with fireworks and a military flyover, and a UFC event at the White House on June 14.
