Kansas City will be a host of the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games, and to start the programming, the entire community is invited to join the official kickoff celebration on Sunday, Oct. 5, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at The J.
The JCC Maccabi Games are the world’s largest Jewish youth sporting event, an Olympic-style competition that brings together thousands of Jewish teens from across the globe. Kansas City will host the Games from Aug. 2 to 7, 2026.
The kickoff event will include entertainment, food trucks (including VAAD-supervised kosher options), games, bounce houses, raffles and activities for all ages.
Attendees can also discover the many ways to be part of the JCC Maccabi Games. Jewish teens ages 13-17 can meet coaches, explore sports options and sign up on the spot to compete in next August’s Games. Community members will have the chance to learn about volunteer opportunities leading up to and during the week of the Games as well as what it means to serve as a host family for visiting athletes.
“The kickoff celebration is our first chance to rally the community around this incredible opportunity,” said Bob Hennecke, Kansas City’s JCC Maccabi Games director. “The JCC Maccabi Games are about more than sports; they’re about shaping the next generation of leaders through competition, teamwork and Jewish pride. This event is our first step in creating that legacy here in Kansas City.”
The kickoff celebration is free and open to the public, though advance registration is encouraged. More details can be found at jcckcmaccabi.org.
