Special Olympics TN Winter Games 2026 at Rocky Top Sports World

The Special Olympics Tennessee Winter Games draw hundreds of athletes to Rocky Top Sports World each February, bringing together competitors in basketball, bowling, cheerleading, and powerlifting.

The schedule typically runs from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon, with opening ceremonies on Saturday morning and medal presentations after each day’s finals. Athletes range from elementary-age participants to adult divisions, competing in skill-based brackets that emphasize personal progress and community support. Rocky Top Sports World is located just off the Parkway in Gatlinburg, offering generous parking and fully accessible facilities designed with families and support teams in mind.

Spectator admission is free, but seating fills fast for Saturday afternoon basketball finals and cheerleading showcases. Plan to arrive by 9 a.m. if you want seats close to the center court. The venue stays comfortably warm indoors, yet February weather in Gatlinburg usually ranges from 35°F to 50°F during the day and dips into the 20s at night, so layers are a smart choice if you plan to walk downtown between events. On-site concessions are available, though many families step out to nearby pancake houses or barbecue spots for lunch, adding to the variety of things to do in Gatlinburg during breaks.

Most visiting families choose cabins along Glades Road or Ski Mountain, keeping you within a 10-minute drive of Rocky Top Sports World while staying close to river corridors and mountain scenery. Lake.com features pet-friendly and accessible lodging options if you’re traveling with service animals or need ground-level entry. Booking by early January is recommended, as winter lodging in Gatlinburg fills quickly around tournament weekends. Checking the best time to visit Gatlinburg can also help you plan around crowds and seasonal conditions, especially for properties with hot tubs and game rooms that suit team gatherings.