Special Olympics' 50th Anniversary Celebration Kicks Off With Unified Cup

This year marks a huge mileston for the Special Olympics.

The organization is celebrating its 50th anniversary with five days of activities, beginning with the Unified Cup on Tuesday morning.

Special Olympics Chicago provides year-round sports training and competitions for more than 5,000 athletes.

On Tuesday, 24 men's and women's teams that include players from around the world, with and without disabilities, will play in a first-of-its-kind soccer tournament together.

This inaugural event promotes being inclusive of all groups internationally, the Special Olympics said, and will feature an inspiring opening ceremony beforehand, kicking off several days of events that mean so much to the athletes who have the chance to compete.

Some of the other big events happening this week include the Law Enforcement Torch Run on Friday at 11 a.m.

A massive family-friendly festival called the Global Day of Inclusion was scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday at Soldier Field, according to the Special Olympics.

The week's celebrations culminate in a major concert featuring Chance the Rapper and Usher, set for 5:40 p.m. Saturday at Northerly Island.

Tickets, a full schedule of events and more information is available on the Special Olympics website.

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