Next month, Hualien will step onto the international stage, drawing global attention as it hosts a major youth sports event. The Hualien County Government has officially announced the event schedule, marking the beginning of the countdown to this major sporting occasion. The 2026 International Children’s Games (ICG), officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee, will take place from August 1 to August 6. This world-class event is expected to bring an unprecedented wave of international sporting excitement to Hualien.
The distinctive feature of the International Children’s Games (ICG) is its city-based participation model, which differs from the nation-based format of the Olympic Games and emphasizes friendship and cultural exchange among cities. Under the theme “Shining Hualien, Shining Together!”, the event positions Hualien as a shining starting point for young athletes’ dreams. Competition events include athletics, swimming, football, tennis, taekwondo, archery, basketball, and table tennis. Outstanding youth athletes aged 12 to 15 from around the world will gather in Hualien to demonstrate resilience and excellence in a pure and inspiring competitive environment. Beyond victories and results, the Games serve as a bridge connecting Hualien with the world, allowing this pearl on the Pacific coast to shine brightly among international cities.
In preparation for this major international sporting event, the county government stated that it has launched a comprehensive “Games Promotion and Public Engagement Program” since January this year. Through a series of outreach and promotional activities, the program aims to guide the public in gaining a deeper understanding of the appeal and significance of the Games. County Magistrate Hsu emphasized that hosting an international sporting event is not only an affirmation of Hualien’s administrative capabilities, but also an important opportunity to showcase Hualien on the global stage. Beyond pursuing excellence in competition, the event is also expected to enhance Hualien’s international visibility and overall city competitiveness. Residents and sports enthusiasts are sincerely invited to follow this sporting celebration and to reserve the summer of 2026 in Hualien, to witness firsthand this cross-border exchange and shine together with the world.
For more information please check the website: https://2026icg.hlc.edu.tw/Module/Home/Index.php?Language=EN
