State College, Pennsylvania, is known as the “City of THON™, home to the largest student-run philanthropy in the world. Every February, thousands of students, volunteers, and supporters gather in the Bryce Jordan Center (BJC) for THON Weekend, a 46-hour, no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon conducted to raise money and spread awareness for children and families impacted by childhood cancer.
In 1973, a group of students hoping to give back to their community held a 30-hour Dance Marathon. 78 dancers participated and raised over $2,000. The event quickly gained popularity and continued to grow in the years to come.
In 1977, Four Diamonds became the sole beneficiary of THON, and in 1987, the Dance Marathon officially adopted the name THON. Since then, the event has continued to spread THON’s mission.
THON Weekend is run by Penn State students and is dedicated to celebrating the year-long fundraising effort. The event begins with Dancer Stand and includes many activities throughout the weekend, including Pep Rally, a National Act, talent shows, music, and dance performances. Dancers represent various student organizations, and Independent Dancer Couples stand in support of finding a cure for childhood cancer. Supporters packed into the BJC all participate in the infamous line dance, a dance that happens every hour of the 46-hour marathon, promoting stretching and giving energy to attendees.
The Final Four hours of THON Weekend are extremely special. Four Diamonds families are given the opportunity to share their inspiring stories of battling childhood cancer and the impact THON has made on their lives. Additionally, children who have passed are honored and remembered during Family Hour. The emotional period brings focus back to THON’s mission, leading up to Dancers Sit and the total reveal.
Total reveal marks the end of THON Weekend. The THON Executive Committee gathers on stage to announce the total amount raised for the fundraising year.
THON Weekend 2026 is February 20th – 22nd. The BJC and THON welcome anyone interested in supporting THON’s mission and the fight against childhood cancer.
To ensure that THON is able to donate 96 cents of every dollar raised to Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, we heavily rely on donor support. These donations provide us the resources to create endless memories for our Four Diamonds families & foster a deep love & connection to our mission for our volunteers through Pre-THON Events, alternative fundraisers, & THON Weekend.
