Special Olympics Illinois to Host More than 400 Athletes in Galena

The 44th Annual Winter Games are set to take place next weekend at two premier destinations in the Tri-States. Special Olympics Illinois will be bringing over 400 athletes to the city of Galena for three days filled with competition over two high-energy sports.

Special Olympics Illinois, in partnership with the city of Galena, will be welcoming athletes, coaches, and volunteers to the 44th Annual Winter Games, per a press release. From February 11th - 13th, 2025, over 400 athletes will be competing in alpine skiing and snowshoeing at Chestnut Mountain Resort and Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa.

These winter games are special too because this is one of 13 state sports competitions as well as the highest level of competition for both alpine skiing and snowshoeing.

Per the press release, the opening ceremony and Parade of Athletes will take place in downtown Galena at 5:30pm on Tuesday, February 11th. This will be underscored by athletes taking part in a parade through the streets of Galena, culminating with the lighting the cauldron, which signifies the beginning of the Winter Games.

For those interested, the competition times are as follows:

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Alpine Skiing:

• Tuesday, February 11: 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, February 12: 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
• Thursday, February 13: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Snowshoeing:

• Tuesday, February 11: 12:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, February 12: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Thursday, February 13: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Special Olympics Illinois is a not-for-profit sports organization that offers year-round training and competition in 18 sports. The organization is comprised of more than 60,000 traditional athletes, Young Athletes, Unified partners, coaches, volunteers, and more. You can learn more about Special Olympics Illinois on their website as well as their Facebook and Twitter/X page.

See the complete itinerary for the 44th Annual Winter Games in Galena on Special Olympics Illinois' website.