Victoria is getting ready to welcome competition, crowds and plenty of hometown pride as the TAAF Winter Games of Texas return for another exciting winter season. The first weekend of the 2026 Games kicks off on January 17 and 18, giving residents a front row seat to some of the best amateur athletic talent in the state.
Athletes from across Texas and beyond will compete in multiple sports throughout the city. The opening weekend schedule includes disc golf at Riverside Park starting at 8:00 am on January 17, cornhole at Texas A&M University–Victoria’s Galvan Community Hall beginning at 9:00 am, and golf at Riverside Golf Course across both January 17 and 18. Swimming events will take place at the VISD Aquatics Center throughout the weekend, with start times varying by event.
The competition does not stop there. A second weekend of action is scheduled for February 14 and 15, featuring e sports, adaptive basketball, flag football, softball and tennis. Registration remains open for both weekends, and local athletes are encouraged to sign up and compete.
Hosted in Victoria since 2022, the Winter Games are organized by the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation, which oversees amateur athletic competitions throughout the state and the nation. This year’s Games are expected to draw between 1,500 and 2,000 visitors over the two weekends, including athletes, families and spectators.
City officials say the impact goes far beyond the playing field. The influx of visitors brings hotel stays, busy restaurants and increased activity for local businesses. According to Sports Tourism and Recreation Supervisor Jerry Ortiz, events like the Winter Games help showcase Victoria as a premier destination for sports tourism while highlighting what makes the city unique.
That confidence is reflected in the city’s long term commitment. Victoria recently accepted a contract extension to continue hosting the TAAF Winter Games through 2028, ensuring that winter weekends filled with competition and community spirit will remain a local tradition.
For residents, the Games offer more than just medals and matchups. They provide a chance to cheer on athletes, discover new sports and see Victoria shine on a statewide stage.