The Bluegrass State Games is a non-profit program sponsored privately to promote amateur athletics across the Commonwealth. It is the signature event of the Bluegrass Sports Commission, designed to provide Kentuckians of all ages and skill levels a wholesome avenue for positive development through sports and physical activity, to promote and develop amateur athletics and to provide the amateur athlete an opportunity to showcase their talent and receive statewide recognition.

Bluegrass State Games is a member of the National Congress of State Games which is a member of the United States Olympic Committee.