FAQ
What is the State Games of Mississippi?
The State Games of Mississippi is an annual multi-sport event, modeled after the Olympic Games, designed and held solely for the residents of Mississippi. The State Games concept was developed in New York in 1978 with the Empire State Games, and today 37 states currently conduct State Games. The State Games of Mississippi is a member of the National Congress of State Games, which is affiliated with the U. S. Olympic Committee.
Since the inaugural State Games of Mississippi in 1991, more than 70,000 athletes from more than 350 Mississippi communities have participated in the Games. In 2022, more than 6,000 athletes participated in 44 sports with the help of 500 volunteers.
Where and when are the games held?
The State Games of Mississippi are held from throughout the year at locations across Mississippi, with the majority set in May and June. Opening Ceremonies are usually held the first Friday in June in downtown Meridian. Check specific sports pages for details.
What are the Opening Ceremonies?
In the tradition of the Olympic Games, a gala Opening Ceremonies is held at Meridian City Hall in downtown Meridian. The 2024 ceremonies will be held on Friday, May 31. Pre-ceremony events begin at 5:00 p.m. The evening features the parade of athletes, exciting live entertainment, the lighting of the torch, and a fantastic fireworks show.
Who is Eligible?
Anyone who has been a resident of Mississippi for at least 30 days is qualified to participate in the State Games of Mississippi. In addition, students registered in Mississippi colleges and universities and military personnel assigned to facilities in Mississippi are eligible. Participants from other states are eligible if that state has no State Games organization or if their organization does not offer the sport in which the participant wishes to compete (at the discretion of our Sports Committee). Permission may be granted from other states for an athlete to participate out of state if they participate in their own State Games in a particular sport.