One male and one female from each state and territory called to the nation’s capital to compete before a nationwide audience.

Although that may sound more like the storyline from Suzanne Collins’ dystopian novel series “The Hunger Games” than an official U.S. government event, President Donald Trump stated this week that an athletic competition named the “Patriot Games” is among the plans for the White House’s observance of the 250th anniversary of American independence next year.

On Thursday, Trump vowed to deliver to the U.S. “the most extraordinary birthday celebration the world has ever witnessed” through a series of programs titled “Freedom 250.” Trump has for the commemoration, and his Administration has ordered agencies to swiftly align with the President’s agenda.

Trump described the “Patriot Games” as an “unprecedented four-day sports competition showcasing elite high school athletes: one young man and one young woman from each state and territory.” Referencing his Administration’s opposition to transgender athletes, he added, “But I assure you there will be no men competing in women’s sports. You won’t see that.”

The series of events for next year is being organized by , “a national, non-partisan group leading the Administration’s observance of America’s 250th birthday,” according to its website. The group characterizes itself as “a coalition of citizens, organizations, corporations, and leaders nationwide to celebrate our nation’s proud heritage, uphold our divinely-granted liberties, and create a Golden Age of Opportunity for the coming 250 years.”

The reference to God is intentional. One of the scheduled events is a large-scale prayer assembly on the National Mall, which Trump said would “recommit our nation as one country under God.”

“We won’t be changing that; many people would like to see it changed, but it will never happen,” Trump stated.

The White House also for “one million Americans” to commit one hour weekly to prayer, asking, “Will you gather with at least 10 people each week for one hour to pray for America?” The roster of participating organizations is primarily composed of Christian and Catholic groups, along with several conservative organizations and individuals such as the anti-abortion group 40 Days for Life, right-wing media organization WallBuilders, and the strategist behind Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign social media approach, .

The additional festivities, scheduled from June 25 to July 10, feature a “Spirit of America” procession honoring deceased service members, a “Birthday Fireworks Celebration” on the National Mall, and a “Great American State Fair” showcasing displays from all 50 states. The White House also intends to hold a on June 14, commemorating both Flag Day and Trump’s 80th birthday. This would be the first time the White House has ever hosted an athletic competition.

The White House has also released on YouTube and other platforms a collection of videos titled “the Story of America” produced in collaboration with Hillsdale College, a conservative Christian liberal arts institution in Michigan. The Administration is also , requiring that it “celebrate American exceptionalism” and “eliminate divisive or partisan storylines.” “All of this is merely the start,” Trump said Thursday. “2026 will be an unprecedented celebration of America, honoring our nation and all its splendor.”