Opening Ceremonies

Opening Ceremonies highlights the achievements of Special Olympic athletes while educating the public about the abilities of athletes with developmental challenges and the Special Olympics mission.

The parade of athletes and special guests will provide world-class live entertainment highlighting the best of our region’s rich cultural heritage.

A fantastic indoor fireworks display will declare the official opening of the Games.

There are no general public tickets available for Opening Ceremonies. Outdoor video board viewing will be provided.

The lighting of the torch. The Torch Run Final leg is a salute to the athletes from the United States who will compete in the 2006 Special Olympic USA National Games. The Final Leg tradition is for law enforcement officers, representing their state, to act as “Guardians of the Flame” and carry the Special Olympics torch “Flame of Hope” to the Opening Ceremonies of the Games. The Final Leg Team is composed of law enforcement runners, Special Olympic athletes and Support Team members.

Production Company – Thomson Productions, Inc. Thomson Productions, Inc., located in Des Moines, Iowa, has served major corporations and national associations for more than 15 years. Thomson Productions, Inc. prides themselves on delivering truly unique and extraordinary experiences for all audiences in the United States, Europe, and Asia.