It’s the first hour of THON 2025, and with that, the music’s pumping to a new line dance, “Can you hear me, let’s go live; turn it up, 25…one day dance in celebration; let’s get going Nittany Nation,” rings throughout the Bryce Jordan Center. This is the place to be—arguably the best weekend of the year in State College—where life and community come together.
As a sophomore at State High, I had the opportunity to attend THON weekend at Penn State, which was held Feb. 21-23, and experience the event firsthand from both the stands and the floor level. This 46-hour dance marathon is a culmination and celebration of a year-long student-run effort to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer patients.
It was heartwarming to see the 16,500+ students involved and those who represented various committees that are responsible for every aspect of the event. From rules and regulations in red shirts, to dancer relations in yellow, and entertainment in orange, the rainbow of colors throughout the arena signifies the dedication of thousands of students to this cause.
Students are also involved in the “46Live” production team from the Bellisario College of Communications. They broadcast the THON live stream all weekend long to make sure everyone can feel like they’re part of the event.
While THON can be an emotional event focused on a serious cause, it’s also full of celebration.
“Supporters join us in the stands to enjoy live music, performances, fun games and challenges, and our infamous line dance. We create a line dance to be performed every hour of the 46-hour marathon that changes every year. We encourage everyone to learn the dance and join the fun!” the THON website states.
On the first night of THON, a “national act” is brought in to serve as an energetic kickoff for the weekend. I could feel the shared sentiment of anticipation from the crowd as we waited to see who would emerge. The Fray took the stage led by lead singer and guitarist Joe King.
“It’s an incredible, incredible cause—we are thankful to be here to participate in this incredible moment,” King said while introducing the band in between songs.
One of the highlights of my weekend was to experience a small part of what it’s like to be a THON dancer, the line dance. During my time on the floor, I was able to participate in the routine, which includes verses that refer to recent events at Penn State, around the world, pop culture, and the annual THON theme. Even for me as a visitor, the line dance made me feel connected to the organization.
To match Friday evening’s level of energy, a Saturday night tradition is the THON pep rally. The Jordan Center turns into an indoor White Out that starts with performances by the Blue Band and the cheerleaders.
Several athletic teams perform original dance routines to compete for bragging rights and showcase their THON spirit. The women’s volleyball team was the sentimental favorite— given the team’s experience with cancer this year—and came out on top.
Families are an integral part of the weekend and the most meaningful part of the THON experience. On the floor, I witnessed wholesome moments between THON kids and dancers. From raising kids up on their shoulders, to playing hide-and-seek amongst the crowd, the dancers made their sponsored kids and families feel special. They built lasting relationships that everyone involved will cherish for years to come. Seeing this brought me joy and a reminder of what it’s all about.
During a recent THON, Greta Bomgardner, a parent of a child patient, expressed what it means to share this journey with other families past and present.
“It gives me hope that Gus too will grow past this into a life of purpose. That cancer, while it will not shape, will help define,” Bomgardner said.
When the clock hit 4 p.m. on Sunday, dancers finally got the chance to take a seat. But not long after, everyone was back on their feet as this year’s fundraising total was unveiled. $17,737,040.93! And with that, another record-breaking THON was in the books.
THON inspires me to be a part of something where an entire community rallies around a cause. It’s amazing to experience the coordinated efforts of so many students that builds relationships, creates memories, and makes a difference in the lives of families battling cancer.
