Tim Tebow's 'Night to Shine' brings young adults with special needs into spotlight

Over 800 churches around the world have come together to celebrate young adults with special needs in a "Night to Shine."

This Christian event is hosted by the Tim Tebow Foundation and the 11th annual celebration took place on Friday, Feb. 7, 2025. According to the website the evening is "centered on God's love, honoring and valuing people with special needs."

"I don't feel like it's even easy for me to ask God something around 'Night to Shine' because He has already given His life so that we could have it," says Tebow in an interview posted to social media. "If I was to ask Him [something], I would say that question would revolve around, could we be able to rally an army of people that would stand on the line, in the gap, fighting with love, value, worth, and dignity for humanity, and that we would be in the gap between the evil that has taken place for so many image-bearers of God."

So sweet! 👑🥹 #NightToShine pic.twitter.com/nsjEu6G8i0

— Tim Tebow Foundation (@tebowfoundation) February 7, 2025

Over 820 churches across 62 countries worldwide take part in a "Night to Shine."

"It's incredible to see the joy and hope in the faces of our Kings and Queens as they step onto the red carpet at 'Night to Shine'—that moment when they realize the cheers and applause are for them," says Tebow. 

While the event started with just one church in 2014, now each "Night to Shine" celebration starts with a red-carpet moment for each person to experience. 

It’s incredible to see the joy and hope in the faces of our Kings and Queens as they start their Night to Shine with a trip down the red carpet! 💃❤️ pic.twitter.com/nI9i6bmz2Y

— Tim Tebow Foundation (@tebowfoundation) February 8, 2025

"For many, it's the first time they've ever felt truly celebrated, especially by someone outside their family. But that's exactly why 'Night to Shine' exists—to remind them of their inherent worth, that they are God's beloved royalty, seen and cherished by Him every single day."

After each person walks the red carpet they are donned with a crown, signifying "their true identity as God's royalty." Tebow himself takes part in the crowning process at a few of the events. 

The celebration is not only for each young adult with special needs, but also the caregivers. They are invited to come, get dressed up, and take part in all the celebration has to offer, including a delicious meal and dance. 

You have to watch this sweet moment of one of our Night to Shine Kings practicing what he was going to say when he picked up his date! He is such a gentleman!🥹🤍 #NightToShine pic.twitter.com/wCCO3NqpRQ

— Tim Tebow Foundation (@tebowfoundation) February 8, 2025

"As caregivers, our son is autistic, so it can get difficult," one parent participant told a local news station. "So, it's nice just to have a night to get dressed up and just meet other like-minded individuals."

Another parent, Sharon Hillstrom, commented on the joy it brings to the whole family, saying "This was my daughter Ella's, 2nd Night to Shine and it truly is her favorite event to attend. She is treated like royalty (me too!) makes new friends, and experiences God's love in all the wonderful details. Thank you for your heart for our special kids!"