Houston is about to feel the thunder of tumbling passes, the sparkle of sequins, and the roar of championship-level cheer as the National Cheerleading Association (NCA) All-Star National Championship makes its Houston debut. From Friday, February 27 through Sunday, March 1, 2026, the nation’s largest all-star cheer competition will take over the heart of downtown—marking not just a milestone event, but the beginning of a three-year love affair between NCA and the Bayou City.

A First for Houston—and a Big One

For the first time in its storied history, the NCA All-Star National Championship will be hosted in Houston, welcoming an estimated 65,000 athletes, families, coaches, and fans from across the country. Competition venues will span the George R. Brown Convention Center campus, extending into Toyota Center and activating Discovery Green, creating a festival-like atmosphere that showcases Houston’s ability to host world-class, large-format events.

This marquee championship is produced by National Cheerleading Association, a Varsity Spirit brand, in partnership with Houston First Corporation—Houston’s official destination marketing organization.

Big Spirit. Bigger Impact.

The numbers tell a powerful story. Each year, the NCA All-Star National Championship is expected to generate $50 million in economic impact, culminating in a projected $150 million boost over the three-year agreement spanning 2026, 2027, and 2028. More than 150 Houston-area hotels are anticipated to benefit, alongside restaurants, transportation providers, retailers, and cultural attractions citywide.

“This is a high-impact event with tens of thousands of attendees that will activate our convention campus and bring business to hotels and small businesses throughout the city,” said Michael Heckman, President and CEO of Houston First. “We’re excited to showcase what Houston can do on a national stage.”

A Championship City Meets Championship Spirit

Houston was a natural fit. With its proven track record hosting Super Bowls, Final Fours, global conventions, and major cultural festivals, the city brings scale, hospitality, and heart—qualities that mirror the energy of all-star cheer itself.

“As one of the largest all-star events in the country, the NCA All-Star National Championship deserves a city that matches its scale and enthusiasm,” said Justin Carrier, Vice President of Event Operations and Experience for Varsity Spirit. “Houston was the clear choice.”

Behind the scenes, Houston First and Varsity Spirit are collaborating closely with key partners—including Fertitta Entertainment, which operates Toyota Center, Discovery Green leadership, and public safety teams—to ensure a safe, seamless, and unforgettable experience for athletes and visitors alike.

More Than a Competition—It’s a Celebration

For Houston, this event is more than pom-poms and pyramids. It’s a celebration of youth athletics, discipline, teamwork, and dreams, wrapped in a weekend that will light up downtown with color, sound, and citywide pride. Families will discover Houston’s legendary culinary scene, world-class museums, performing arts, and green spaces—many just steps from the competition floor.

For the cheer community, it’s a championship moment in a city that knows how to celebrate excellence.

Plan Your Visit & Learn More

• Houston First Corporation: https://www.houstonfirst.com
• National Cheerleading Association (NCA): https://www.varsity.com/nca
• Varsity Spirit: https://www.varsity.com
• George R. Brown Convention Center: https://www.grbhouston.com
• Discovery Green: https://www.discoverygreen.com

As February 2026 approaches, one thing is certain: Houston is ready to bring the heat, the heart, and the hospitality. When the NCA All-Star National Championship hits downtown, the city won’t just host the event—it will cheer right along with it.