Boise to Join 2028 Olympic Torch Relay Route
The city has been invited to participate in the relay ahead of the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Olympics
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LA28 organizers have selected Boise as a stop for the upcoming Olympic torch relay that will visit all 50 states. The route will culminate in Los Angeles for the Summer Games opening ceremony on July 14, 2028.
Why it matters
The invitation recognizes Boise as part of a national journey that connects the traditional starting point in Olympia, Greece, to the host city. City officials are currently in the planning phase to integrate local landmarks into the relay path.
The 2028 Olympic torch relay is scheduled to travel through all 50 states before the opening ceremony on July 14, 2028. Organizers identified Boise as a participating city as part of the nationwide route.
The players
Reynold Hoover
He serves as the CEO of LA28 and is responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of the Olympic torch relay.
Lauren McLean
She is the Mayor of Boise and is tasked with evaluating the citys formal participation in the Olympic event.
Boise City Council
This local governing body is responsible for reviewing and approving the participation agreement for the city.
The details
Boise city officials are currently collaborating with LA28 organizers to plan a route that highlights significant local landmarks. As part of the partnership, the city may nominate residents to serve as official torchbearers and host a ceremonial cauldron lighting.
Timeline
September 21, 2026: LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover sent the official invitation to Mayor Lauren McLean.
October 20, 2026: The Boise City Council will consider a formal participation agreement.
July 14, 2028: The opening ceremony for the Summer Games occurs in Los Angeles.
Season Trajectory
The relay follows a pattern set by prior Olympic torch traditions of broad geographic inclusion to generate national engagement. This expansion aims to build momentum across all 50 states leading up to the 2028 Summer Games.
Boise residents may have the opportunity to participate directly in the event through the nomination of local torchbearers. The city plans to showcase specific landmarks, which will likely affect local transit and public access routes during the relay day.
The takeaway
The inclusion of Boise in the 2028 relay highlights the effort to bring the Olympic experience to cities outside of the host location. Residents can look forward to official updates regarding potential public celebrations following the city council vote.
What happens next
The Boise City Council is scheduled to meet on October 20, 2026, to consider the formal participation agreement for the torch relay.
Further reading
For more information on upcoming events, visit the Olympics section.
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