The World Games are coming to Birmingham in just a few days. Here’s how you can get prepared.
About the games
If you somehow haven’t heard, The World Games are a multi-day sporting event compiling all the major oddball sports that aren’t in the Olympic Games. The World Games kick off on July 7 at 7 p.m. with an opening ceremony at Protective Stadium. From there, a variety of sporting events, such as bowling, archery and drone-racing will take place around Birmingham from July 8 until July 17. Our own UAB campus will host several games, including boules, lacrosse, racquetball, squash and tug-of-war. The Games will finish off with a closing ceremony on the evening of the 17, also at Protective Stadium. Both ceremonies will feature live entertainment and a celebration of the athletes.
Ticket options
There are a variety of ticket options for students who plan to attend The Games. Day passes, which will allow attendees to view multiple events on a given day, are currently on sale for only $35. Additionally, passes for individual games are available for purchase. These are of limited availability, so we recommend that you purchase your tickets as soon as possible. Schedules and tickets may be viewed here.
What to bring
Attendees are permitted to bring the following items:
- 12”x6”x12” clear plastic bag
- A plastic bag up to a gallon in size
- A clutch (no larger than 4.5”x6.5”)
- A clear, non-glass water bottle
- A seat cushion without pockets (The World Games specifically prohibits seat cushions with pockets)
- Sunglasses
- A camera with a lens of less than 12”
- Credit or debit cards (cash won’t be accepted)
Be sure to leave all outside food and drinks at home. Backpacks, fanny packs, umbrellas, skateboards, fireworks, cigarettes, illegal drugs and weapons are prohibited as well. This chart offers a comprehensive list of all items prohibited by The World Games.
Transportation
In partnership with the City of Birmingham, Birmingham Organizing Committee and the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority, The World Games will offer free transportation through their shuttle service “Ride The Line.” This service is intended to help attendees get to venues such as Sloss Furnaces, Avondale Park and Legion Field while the games are taking place. ADA-accessible shuttles will be available. Additionally, ADA and handicap parking will be available at all venues. More information about routes and parking can be found here.
Staying cool
Summer is heating up! Don’t let this heat impede your enjoyment of the games. Attendees are allowed to bring along one clear, non-glass water bottle. The World Games will have complimentary water refill stations available by concession areas and major walkways. Outdoor venues closest to campus include our own UAB venues, Railroad Park and Legion Field. A complete list of outdoor venues can be found here.
The World Games Plaza
The World Games Plaza, located in City Walk BHAM, will feature a variety of free activities, entertainment and food options each day during the Games. The Plaza will host food trucks such as 1918 Catering, Jolly Cakes Birmingham and Naughty But Nice Kettle Corn Co. daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. A full list of food trucks can be found here. The Plaza will give visitors an opportunity to try out a number of sports featured at The World Games, including but not limited to jujitsu, field hockey and korfball. A variety of musical acts are scheduled to perform at The Plaza, such as Big Boi, Lupe Fiasco and Big Head Todd and The Monsters. More information about the food options, demo games and entertainment schedule can be found here.
COVID-19
The World Games 2022 will not require proof of vaccination for entry. A mask-optional policy will be in place in every venue. Visitors are encouraged to stay home if they aren’t feeling well.
