Greater Raleigh is gearing up for an exciting year of sports in 2026, with world-class events that will draw athletes, fans and visitors from across the country and beyond. From NCAA championships to international soccer tournaments, the region’s premier venues will once again take center stage, showcasing why Raleigh, N.C., is a top destination for sports. Here’s a look at the major events you won’t want to miss:
 

City of Oaks Challenge

From Jan. 17-19, 2026, the City of Oaks Challenge brought high-energy volleyball action to Raleigh. Hosted by Triangle Volleyball Club, this annual tournament attracts top teams from across the region for three days of intense competition. Matches took place at the Raleigh Convention Center and the Wake Competition Center, offering fans plenty of opportunities to catch the excitement.


USA Baseball National High School Invitational

The USA Baseball National High School Invitational (NHSI) returns to the USA Baseball National Training Complex March 25-28, 2026. This premier national tournament brings together many of the country’s top high school baseball programs for four days of elite competition, drawing scouts, fans and future stars to Cary, N.C.


ACC Men's and Women's Tennis Championships

The ACC Men’s and Women’s Tennis Championships return to Cary Tennis Park on April 14-19, 2026, showcasing some of the nation’s top collegiate talent. Fans can expect thrilling matches as ACC teams battle for conference titles in one of the premier tennis facilities in the Southeast. Match and ticket details will be announced soon, so stay tuned for your chance to catch the action courtside.
 

The ACC Women's Rowing Championship

Lake Wheeler Park will set the stage for the ACC Women’s Rowing Championship on May 15-16, 2026. This picturesque venue provides the perfect backdrop for intense competition as ACC teams race for glory. Whether you’re a rowing enthusiast or simply looking for a unique sporting experience, this event promises excitement and scenic views.
 

The Soccer Tournament (TST)

TST is returning to WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, May 27-June 1, 2026. WakeMed Soccer Park is a premier venue featuring a 10,000-seat stadium and is home to National Women’s Soccer League team North Carolina Courage.

Recently, TST announced they have signed an agreement to stay in Cary through 2029. The event brings players, clubs, fans and cuisines from all over the world to Cary for a six-day, 7v7 tournament. Pre-sale for this year begins Feb. 24, 2026; join their ticket waitlist on their website.
 

The Cary Cup

The Cary Cup returns for its second year, May 29-31, 2026, bringing back its signature 7v7 youth soccer format to Cary. Run in coordination with TST, the event features boys’ and girls’ divisions across multiple age groups and uses TST’s innovative Target Score Time™ format. Participants also receive complimentary multi‑session tickets to select TST match sessions and the chance to play on the same fields as TST’s pros and celebrities.
 

CubingUSA Rubik's WCA North American Championship   

Top speedcubers from around the world compete July 2-5, 2026, at the Raleigh Convention Center, showcasing lightning‑fast solves and world-class skill in one of North America’s largest Rubik’s Cube competitions. Open to spectators, this high‑energy event highlights mental athletics, precision and community. Learn more, here.
 

Phenom Hoops Live

Phenom Hoops brings two premier grassroots basketball showcases to the Raleigh Convention Center in 2026. Phenom G3 Live runs May 15-17, 2026, followed by Phenom Hoops Live & Championship at the Capital on July 9-12, 2026. Together, these events feature top boys’ teams from fourth through 12th grade competing under one roof, offering elite competition, strong media exposure and significant visibility for college coaches across all levels. Teams can register here.
 

NCAA Division II Baseball Championship

NCAA Division II Baseball Championship returns to Cary for the 2026 season. This will be the 16th time the championship has been played in Cary. The event will take place May 29-June 6, 2026, at the USA Baseball National Training Complex.

We won’t know what teams will advance to the championship until closer to the date, but you can expect a fun time no matter what. Fans will have the option to purchase either single-day or all-session tickets.
 

NCAA Men and Women's Soccer

Multiple NCAA Men’s and Women’s College Cups have been held over the years at WakeMed Soccer Park. This year’s event marks the first time that both College Cups will be held on the same weekend at the same venue in December.

The combined Women’s Championship and Men’s Championship will take place December 10-14, 2026, creating an unprecedented, unified championship experience in Cary.

 

Stay tuned for updates, mark your calendars and get ready to experience the thrill of live sports in Raleigh, N.C.

The Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance (GRSA) is always pleased to assist you with questions and requests related to sports event planning in Greater Raleigh. Contact Jason Philbeck, STS, GRSA associate director, if you are interested in hosting your next event in Raleigh, N.C., named Best Sports Host City by SportsTravel Magazine!