Special events and exhibitions hosted during the National Senior Games offer athletes and fans opportunities to celebrate together, experience the host city in new ways and build their health and wellness.
The Village
MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex, 6500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266
The Village is the hub of activity for The Games, offering athlete check-in, vendors, activities, interactive displays and more. The Village is free and open to both athletes and the public. View hours for The Village on the general schedule.
Sustained Athlete Fitness Exam (SAFE)
MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex, 6500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266
July 23, 2025: 2 p.m.-8 p.m.
July 24-Aug. 2, 2025: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Sustained Athlete Fitness Exam is a free fitness screening administered by physical therapy volunteers. The SAFE takes 30 minutes to complete and measures cardiovascular, muscular, flexibility and balance fitness. Participants receive a report card with scores based on data from other National Senior Games athletes and personalized guidance from physical therapy volunteers.
Provided in partnership with APTA Geriatrics.
Flame Arrival Ceremony – Friday, July 25, 2025
7 p.m., Iowa State Capitol (E Locust St & E 7th St, Des Moines, Iowa, 50319)
Let’s get the party started! The Flame Arrival Ceremony celebrates the opening of The Games as the torch flame arrives and is used to light the ceremonial cauldron. This event is free and open to both athletes and the public.
Mile for the Ages – Friday, July 25, 2025
6:30 p.m., Iowa State Capitol Grounds (1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319)
Mile for the Ages is a NEW special event at the National Senior Games bringing generations together through movement! This one-mile run/walk is open to National Senior Games athletes, their families and friends, and Des Moines community members. It will be held in conjunction with the 1-Mile Road Race competition and immediately before the Flame Arrival Ceremony. Find registration information and more details at NSGA.com/Mile-for-the-Ages.
Celebration of Athletes – Monday, July 28, 2025
Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park (2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50321)
Parade of Athletes staging begins at 5:45 p.m. Program begins at 6:15 p.m.
The Celebration of Athletes is a combined opening and closing ceremony held in the middle of the event schedule that celebrates the achievements of National Senior Games athletes. This is where the pageantry happens, including a stirring Parade of Athletes by state/country and a warm welcome from the host city and dignitaries.