Drumming News :
The Chad Smith Foundation, a dedicated organization supporting music education, announced today that it has committed to be a music education partner of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. In tandem, legendary musician Chad Smith has been named an official Ambassador of the Games, which are set to take place June 20-26, 2026, in Minnesota.
The Chad Smith Foundation will bring hands-on music experiences to both the Athlete Village and Thrivent Fan Fest, giving athletes, families and attendees the unique opportunity to learn how to play an instrument. With a variety of trained musicians on-site, participants will be able to explore music in a fun, welcoming environment.
The Thrivent Fan Fest activation will be located at the Maroon Lot outside of Huntington Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota campus. Leading these experiences will be passionate college musicians, including students from the University of Minnesota School of Music, who are excited to share their love of music with the community. These volunteers represent a wide range of musical backgrounds and genres, creating a supportive environment where participants can discover the joy of making music for themselves.
The Music Education Activation Schedule is as follows:
Sunday:
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Athlete Village
- 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM: Fan Fest Instruction (Thrivent Fan Fest)
- 3:00 PM: Drum Circle (Thrivent Fan Fest)
Monday:
- 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Fan Fest Instruction (Thrivent Fan Fest)
- 1:00 PM: Drum Circle (Thrivent Fan Fest)
“My music journey started when somebody put an instrument in my hands and showed me what was possible. We hope to bring that same experience to athletes, families and fans at an event that already provides so much inspiration to the world. I’m honored to serve as an Ambassador for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games and help champion such a powerful mission,” said Chad Smith, Official Ambassador, Chairman and Co-Founder of the Chad Smith Foundation.
The Chad Smith Foundation joins a growing roster of partners helping bring the Games to life. By combining the power of music education with the spirit of inclusion, the partnership will create memorable experiences for athletes, families and fans alike.
“We believe in the power of music and that it is meant to be shared with all. Much like sports, music is incredibly inclusive. It brings people together, creates connections and gives everyone a chance to participate. That’s what makes this partnership with the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games such a natural fit. With Chad serving as an Ambassador and our team on-site, we’re looking to inspire people through music and make as much noise as possible,” said Lewis Smith, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Chad Smith Foundation.
About The Chad Smith Foundation
The Chad Smith Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded by Chad Smith, drummer of the legendary rock band the Red Hot Chili Peppers and a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The Foundation is dedicated to expanding access to music education by creating music programs within after-school organizations and providing young people with the instruments, instructors and opportunities they need to explore their musical potential. Through strategic partnerships and community investment, the Chad Smith Foundation works to remove barriers to participation and help young people build confidence, develop new skills and discover a lifelong passion for music.
About the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games
The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games – scheduled for June 20-26, 2026, across Minnesota’s Twin Cities with sports competitions at the University of Minnesota and the National Sports Center in Blaine – is a national celebration of inclusivity, changing perceptions and the ability of the human spirit rising above limitations. The USA Games, with co-presenting partners Jersey Mike’s Subs and UnitedHealthcare, will be one of the biggest U.S. sporting events of the year, drawing tens of thousands of fans to celebrate the ability of nearly 3,000 incredible athletes from all 50 states as they compete in 16 Olympic-type team and individual sports. As a state with a long history of championing inclusion, the USA Games now bring an unrivaled opportunity to Minnesota to spark new energy around the Special Olympics movement and create a lasting legacy of positive change.
