It’s Tim Tebow’s favorite night of the year: the Night to Shine!
While the world often focuses on what divides us, tonight, a global movement is proving that every single person has a seat at the table—and a crown to match.
Sign up for Caleb’s FREE newsletter of encouraging stories in your inbox!
The Tim Tebow Foundation’s 12th annual Night to Shine kicked off on Friday, transforming over 970 locations in more than 70 countries into royal ballrooms for people with special needs.
From the highlands of Ethiopia to the vibrant streets of Guatemala and Romania, an estimated 100,000 guests are being celebrated as the “Kings and Queens” they truly are.
Fire 🔥 Red Carpet moment from our friends in 📍Poland 🇵🇱 pic.twitter.com/QcmrNXEUoy
— Tim Tebow Foundation (@tebowfoundation) February 13, 2026
A Message from the Heart
Before the red carpets were rolled out, Tim Tebow took to Instagram to share a powerful reminder with the guests.
“This is for you and about you,” Tebow said. “You’re so loved, valued and treasured by so many people, but most importantly, the King of the Universe.”
For many of these guests, who are too often cast aside or overlooked by society, the night is more than just a prom.
It’s a radical act of validation. Each guest is greeted by a cheering crowd and “paparazzi,” treated to hair and makeup styling, and ultimately crowned in a ceremony that marks the highlight of the evening.
Going Global
Tebow, known for his hands-on approach, made personal appearances at events in Ethiopia and Tanzania to start the festivities.
VIP ALERT! 📍Tanzania Night to Shine 🇹🇿 pic.twitter.com/tATxws7Q2E
— Tim Tebow Foundation (@tebowfoundation) February 13, 2026
The foundation also highlighted the incredible reach of the event this year, noting that the joy of Night to Shine has reached every corner of the globe, including significant celebrations across Romania, Poland, Guatemala, the Philippines and more.
📍🇵🇭 Even though we don’t all speak the same language, we all understand the language of God: LOVE! Let's go Night to Shine Philippines! pic.twitter.com/5u2EkvM9iK
— Tim Tebow Foundation (@tebowfoundation) February 13, 2026
More Than Just a Party
What started as a small initiative has blossomed into a worldwide standard for disability advocacy within the church.
For the thousands of volunteers, often referred to as “Buddies,” the night is just as transformative as it is for the guests. It’s a glimpse into a world where everyone is seen through the lens of their inherent worth.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW CALEB’S AMAZON STORE FOR DAILY ITEMS AND BIBLES!
As the sun sets across the United States, thousands more are beginning their walk down the red carpet. It’s a night where the music is loud, the dancing is constant, and the message is clear: You are chosen, you are loved, and you are royalty.
It’s been an honor to cover this beautiful event as a reporter for Fox News and now as an independent journalist. God bless Tim, his foundation, the Kings and Queens, and, of course, every single volunteer. Every year this event brings a smile to my face and tears of joy!
If you’ve got photos or video you want to share, tag me, send me an email (contact tab) or message me on social media! @calebparke
Caleb Parke is an award-winning independent journalist. Follow him on X, Facebook, Instagram, and connect with him at calebparke.com.
