COME JOIN 

Winter Games Preview The 2026 California State Winter Games presented by National University is almost here! From the rink to the gym, we’re bringing the energy, excitement, and unforgettable experiences to the athletes coming in from all over California to compete in the Games. Ice Hockey | February 13–16 Location: Multiple Rinks in San Diego Ice hockey kicks off the Winter Games action from February 13–16, featuring youth divisions and high-level USA Hockey sanctioned competition all weekend long. Teams will battle it out on the ice for gold, silver, and bronze medals, with first, second, and third place awards presented in each division. But the excitement doesn’t stop with the final buzzer… Torch Ceremony | February 14 Location: Pechanga Arena Hockey athletes can participate in our ceremonial torch lighting ceremony, one of the most iconic California State Games traditions. Athletes line up on the ice and experience the lighting of the cauldron, creating a truly unforgettable Winter Games moment. The celebration continues after the torch lighting, with a tailgate hosted by the San Diego Gulls, capped off with watching San Diego’s AHL team take the ice for their game against the Bakersfield Condors. It’s a can’t-miss night of hockey and community for athletes and families alike.  Figure Skating | March 7–8 Location: San Diego Ice Arena Figure skating takes center stage on March 7–8 at the San Diego Ice Arena, showcasing grace, athleticism, and artistry on the ice. In step with a true Olympic-style experience, gold, silver, and bronze medals are awarded to the first, second, and third place skaters in each division. First Ever After Party | March 8 After the competition wraps up on Saturday, March 8, skaters are invited to our first ever Figure Skating After Party from 2–5 PM at Ringers Roller Rink - and yes, athletes get in FREE! The after party includes roller skating, games, music, and a chance to celebrate with fellow athletes. It’s the perfect way to end an amazing weekend of competition! Gymnastics | March 7–8 Location: Toby Wells YMCA Gymnastics returns to the Winter Games on March 7–8 at the Toby Wells YMCA, featuring talented athletes across divisions competing in this USA Gymnastics sanctioned event. Free Athlete Gift All gymnasts receive a free California State Games leotard commemorating their competition experience. Epic Winter Incoming Between the thrilling competition, medals, ceremonies, tailgates, and celebrations, the California State Winter Games presented by National University is shaping up to be one you won’t want to miss. We can’t wait to welcome our athletes, families, and fans for another unforgettable California State Games season. See you at Winter Games!

The California State Games (CSG) has been the state’s largest amateur-sports festival since 1988, offering a “Olympic-style” experience for amateur athletes across California. Following the retirement of the California State Games’ founding Executive Director Sandi Hill, who served in the role for 35 years, Sports San Diego assumed management of the CSG in 2023. What is Sports San Diego? Sports San Diego is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) with a purpose to drive visitor demand to economically benefit the San Diego region through producing the Trust & Will Holiday Bowl, Rady Children’s Invitational, and California State Games and recruiting, supporting, and hosting world-class sports events. How did Sports San Diego Start? The Trust & Will Holiday Bowl is college football bowl game hosted annually San Diego since 1978. Since its inaugural edition on December 22, 1978, at the former San Diego Stadium, when the BYU Cougars faced the Navy Midshipmen, the Trust & Will Holiday Bowl has become a major fixture in the college football postseason calendar. Since its launch, the Trust & Will Holiday Bowl, originally produced by the San Diego Bowl Game Association which evolved into Sports San Diego, has created immense economic value for the region, generating more than $1 billion in impact for San Diego. In 2023, the San Diego Bowl Game Association officially rebranded as Sports San Diego to reflect its broader mission: not only producing the Trust & Will Holiday Bowl, but producing events like the Rady Children’s Invitational and the California State Games and functioning as the region’s sports commission. Part of Something Bigger The integration of the California State Games under Sports San Diego highlights the organization’s ongoing commitment to promoting sports, tourism, and community engagement throughout the region. Sports San Diego has become a driving force for athletic excellence and economic growth, positioning the city as a premier destination for world-class sporting events. By uniting athletes, fans, and communities, it strengthens San Diego’s identity while supporting tourism and creating lasting experiences.