Spectators

Opening Ceremonies is an evening of excitement for our athletes, and the coaches, families and volunteers who support Special Olympics. Don’t miss a chance to cheer and be inspired when Opening Ceremonies begins with the traditional parade of athletes led into Aggie Stadium by the UC Davis Aggie band. Athletes and their coaches will be welcomed into Aggie Stadium by the "Wall of Honor" consisting of Law Enforcement personnel from all over Northern California who have raised funds and awareness for Special Olympics throughout the year.

KTVU-TV Fox News Reporter and long-time supporter of Special Olympics John Sasaki will share emcee duties for the evening with a Special Olympics Global Messenger Stephanie Ching.

One of the highlights of Opening Ceremonies will be the performance of Voena (Voices of Eve' N Angels), a youth choir. Voena has performed for President Clinton and President Bush in Washington DC and Pope John Paull II at the Vatican in Rome. As goodwill ambassadors, they have toured with their message of celebrating global diversity to China, Mexico, Italy, Greece and Japan.

Opening Ceremonies will conclude with the dramatic arrival of the Flame of Hope™ into Aggie Stadium escorted by a police motorcade and law enforcement personnel. The Law Enforcement personnel will be joined by several Special Olympics athletes and together they will light the Special Olympics caldron to officially open the Games.

The Opening Ceremonies and all athletic events are free and open to the public.