KISSIMMEE, Fla. (May 16, 2025) – The 2025 Special Olympics Florida Summer Games kicked off Friday night at Walt Disney World Resort with an inspiring opening ceremony that featured thousands of athletes and volunteers, several Disney characters, fireworks and a processional of more than 100 first responder vehicles.
The first responders were part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which helped escort the athletes and the Flame of Hope into The Stadium at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Zachary Stambaugh from the Special Olympics Florida Central Region had the honor of carrying the iconic torch the final steps to light the cauldron, marking the official start of the two-day competition. Nearly 1,000 Disney cast members attended the ceremony and will help in various roles throughout the Summer Games to ensure the athletes and their families enjoy a magical event at Walt Disney World.
Walt Disney World Resort has been involved with Special Olympics Florida since 1986 and has hosted the Summer Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for more than 15 years as well as other Special Olympics competitions. Most notably, the facility hosted the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games.