Live Look From Israel
Maccabiah Daily Update: June 29, 2026

The Maccabiah experience kicked off today for Maccabi USA as our first sets of athletes and delegation members arrived to Israel!

Check out a taste of today’s Maccabiah action below!

Arrivals at Ben Gurion Airport

Our first set of athletes arrived at Ben Gurion Airport in big numbers throughout the day, marking the beginning of our official return to Israel for the 2026 Maccabiah. The Maccabi USA Management team welcomed delegation members with open arms, guiding everyone through the airport and to their hotels to begin the check-in process before getting athletes on their way to their first practices. We can’t wait to welcome the rest of the delegation tomorrow, as we look ahead to gathering as a full delegation at Wednesday’s Opening Ceremony!

Pre-Maccabiah Training Camp

Our first pre-Maccabiah training camps began today as our jet-lagged athletes took to the courts and fields to prepare for competition starting in just a couple days. Practices not only provide a chance for teams to play alongside one another – often for the first time – before the Games, but also helps lay the foundation for a team bond and camaraderie that can last a lifetime.

Tower of David Dinner and Light Show

This evening, our Maccabi USA Supporters Travel Mission participants enjoyed a memorable evening at Jerusalem's historic Tower of David, where they gathered for dinner before experiencing the Night Spectacular light show.

Set against the backdrop of one of Israel's most iconic landmarks, the evening offered a meaningful opportunity to connect, reflect, and experience the rich history and spirit of Jerusalem together as excitement continues to build for the 2026 Maccabiah.

Follow Maccabiah Action with Maccabi Media

and Jewish Broadcasting Service

Throughout this summer's Games, our Maccabi Media Team will be covering all of the action, including video features, articles, recaps, and livestreams of Opening Ceremony and competitions. Check out the Maccabi Media page on our website to catch all of the coverage from Israel!



Additionally, games streamed by Maccabi Media, along with Opening Ceremony, will be aired later by the Jewish Broadcasting Service. And check out the great JBS Maccabiah promo video here!

Be sure to tune in for the Opening Ceremony livestream this Wednesday, July at 12:30 pm ET/9:30 am PT. Watch incredible performances by Israeli artists and cheer on delegations from all across the globe – including the USA! – as they march into Teddy Stadium, officially marking our return to Israel for the much-anticipated 2026 Maccabiah. A livestream will be available on both the Maccabi USA and Maccabi World Union websites, with the broadcast to follow on JBS.

Thank you for tuning in and cheering on the USA delegation from afar!

Be sure to tune into all of our Maccabiah content by following along on our social media linked below!

Connect With Us