CHEROKEE COUNTY, GA — Cherokee County has been selected to once again host a national competition that brings hundreds of firefighters, EMTs and police officers together for a series of events.

The Police and Fire Games will return to Cherokee County in 2027 after nearly 600 first responders participated this year. Competitors came from six states and across Georgia.

The competition includes events such as Toughest Firefighter and Toughest Police Officer. Cherokee County won the Toughest Firefighter competition this year and took home 112 medals overall.

Cherokee County Communications Director Erika Neldner says hosting the games also provides a benefit to local businesses.

“Our sales tax dollar benefits when people come in as well as our motel/hotel tax,” Neldner said.

The events are open to the public, and spectators are encouraged to attend.

“Anybody is welcome to come and attend and watch and enjoy the day. We had a lot of spectators in June,” Neldner said.

The 2027 events are scheduled to begin June 14.

WSB Radio’s Ashley Simmons & Keith Cromwell contributed to this story.