President Donald Trump signs an executive order in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington on Thursday, December 18, 2025. Getty Images
President Donald Trump announced a new youth sports competition on Thursday. The White House will host the event next year. The competition will mark the nation’s 250th anniversary. Trump named the event the “Patriot Games.” Young athletes from across the country will take part.
Event Details Shared by President
Trump described the competition during his announcement.
“In the fall, we will host the first ever Patriot Games, an unprecedented four-day athletic event featuring the greatest high school athletes — one young man and one young woman from each state and territory,” Trump said.
The event will bring students from every state and territory. Each area will send two athletes. One boy and one girl will compete. The games will last four days. The White House will serve as host.
Online Reaction Draws Attention
Some critics responded quickly online. Several Democrats mocked the competition. They compared it to “The Hunger Games.” That story features young people forced into violent contests. Trump supporters dismissed the comparison. They said the event celebrates youth and national pride.
Video Announcement Launches Group
Trump shared the plans through a video message. The video came from a group called Freedom 250. The group launched on Thursday. It will help lead anniversary celebrations. The organization calls itself non-partisan. It will support the administration’s plans.
Earlier Preview of the Games
Trump first mentioned the Patriot Games in July. He said the event would appear on television. He also said Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy would lead it. The White House has not shared broadcast details yet.
New Monument Planned for Capital
Trump also spoke about a new monument. He wants to build a large arch in Washington.
“We are the only major place without a triumphal arc. A beautiful triumphal arc, one like in Paris, where they have the great, a beautiful arc. They call it the Arc de Triomphe, and we’re going to have one in Washington, DC, very soon,” Trump said.
The monument would stand as a national symbol. Construction could begin soon.
UFC Event Set for Flag Day
Trump also announced another major celebration. A UFC event will take place at the White House. It will happen on June 14. That date matches Flag Day and Trump’s birthday.
“On Flag Day, we will have a one-of-a-kind UFC event here at the White House. It’ll be the greatest champion fighters in the world, all fighting that same night. The great Dana White is hosting, and it’s going to be something special,” Trump said.
The event will take place on the South Lawn.
Agencies Align With Anniversary Plans
Trump has focused heavily on the 250th anniversary. His administration has directed federal agencies to follow his vision. Funding priorities now reflect those goals. Several departments have already responded.
State Fair Competition Moves Forward
The Agriculture Department adopted a new idea. Trump calls it the Great American State Fair. States will compete for the title. Trump will choose the “most patriotic” fair. He first shared the idea during the 2023 campaign.
Museums Face Review
The White House has also begun reviewing the Smithsonian Institution. Officials want renewed focus on national pride. They want anniversary content updated. The review continues.
Trump says the celebrations will unite Americans. The plans mix sports, history, and national symbols. The yearlong effort will shape the historic milestone.
