Game on: Summer sporting events in Lincoln

Looking for a reason to visit Lincoln this summer? Try national championships, all-star competitions and some of the biggest sporting events in the country.

Throughout the summer, thousands of athletes, coaches, families and fans will travel to Lincoln to compete, cheer and celebrate. From rodeo arenas and baseball diamonds to tennis courts, archery ranges and miles of gravel roads, the city will be buzzing with action as it hosts premier events that draw competitors from across the nation and beyond.

Whether you're a dedicated sports fan, supporting a competing athlete or simply looking for an exciting weekend getaway, there's no shortage of reasons to join in on the fun. Here's a look at some of the major sporting events making their way to Lincoln this summer.

National High School Finals Rodeo

July 19-25 | Sandhills Global Event Center

Cowboys and cowgirls from across the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Mexico will ride into Lincoln for the National High School Finals Rodeo, one of the largest youth rodeo events in the world.

For a week, competitors will showcase their skills in events like barrel racing, bull riding, team roping and steer wrestling. At the same time, thousands of spectators experience the excitement and traditions of rodeo culture.

American Association of Professional Baseball All-Star Game

July 13-15 | Haymarket Park

Professional baseball takes center stage as the American Association of Professional Baseball All-Star Game comes to Lincoln—the first time the Lincoln Saltdogs have hosted an all-star game in more than two decades.

The celebration includes an All-Star Youth Clinic, community events, a Hall of Fame banquet, the Home Run Derby and the All-Star Game itself. The festivities conclude with a postgame fireworks show over Haymarket Park.

Cornhusker State Games

July 9-19 | Locations throughout Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding communities

Every summer, athletes of all ages and abilities compete in Nebraska's largest amateur sports festival.

The Cornhusker State Games brings thousands of participants to Lincoln to compete in dozens of sports, from basketball and volleyball to pickleball, track and field and more. The event kicks off with Opening Night outside Pinnacle Bank Arena on July 9.

USA Roller Sports National Championships

July 7-August 2 | Speedway Sports Complex

For nearly a month, Lincoln will welcome some of the nation's top roller athletes as they compete for national titles.

The championships feature speed skating and artistic skating competitions, showcasing both elite athletic performance and creative expression. It's a unique opportunity to watch some of the best roller sports athletes in the country.

ATP Lincoln Challenger

July 12-19 | Sid and Hazel Dillon Tennis Center

Professional tennis returns to Lincoln as rising stars from around the world compete in the ATP Lincoln Challenger.

As part of the ATP Challenger Tour, the tournament offers fans the chance to watch high-level tennis up close while seeing future stars of the sport before they reach the world's biggest stages.

USA Archery JOAD Championships

July 22-26 | Lincoln Sports Foundation

The nation's top youth archers will gather in Lincoln for the USA Archery JOAD Target Nationals and JOAD U.S. Open.

Competitors from across the country will put their precision, focus and skill to the test as they compete for national championships in multiple divisions.

Gravel Worlds and USA Triathlon Gravel Nationals

August 19-23 | Sandhills Global Event Center

Lincoln's gravel roads will once again become the backdrop for one of the most respected gravel cycling events in the country.

Gravel Worlds attracts riders from around the globe for challenging endurance races through Nebraska's scenic countryside. This year, the event will also host USA Triathlon Gravel Nationals, where athletes will compete for national titles and spots at the 2027 World Triathlon Multisport World Championships.

Make Lincoln your summer destination

With championship competitions, national tournaments and premier sporting events happening throughout the summer, Lincoln is becoming a destination for athletes and fans alike.

Between events, visitors can explore local restaurants, breweries, shopping districts, museums, outdoor recreation and entertainment venues throughout the city. No matter which event brings you here, you'll find plenty of reasons to stay and explore.

Start planning your visit and discover everything happening in Lincoln this summer.