Traffic, parking, live stream: Here’s what to know about Thon at Penn State
The Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon kicks off this weekend, and whether you’ll be attending in-person or watching on the livestream, here’s everything you need to know about Thon 2020.
Through Sunday afternoon, the Bryce Jordan Center will be taken over by students, volunteers and Four Diamonds families as over 700 dancers stand on their feet in an effort to raise money to find a cure for all childhood cancers. Thon, the world’s largest student-run philanthropy, will conclude at 4 p.m. Sunday.
Parking during Thon is free and does not require a pass. Time restrictions will not be enforced throughout the weekend. Parking will be available in lots near the BJC, including Commuter Lot Stadium West, Commuter Lot Jordan East and Commuter Lot Porter North.
Handicapped-accessible parking will be available outside of the BJC.
Penn State anticipates heavy traffic and delays throughout the weekend. Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area, if possible. Dauer Drive will be closed from 3:45-6 p.m. Sunday for Thon departure.
The Centre Area Transportation Authority will offer extended services during Thon. The campus Blue Loop and White Loop routes will run continuously for 48 hours through 6 p.m. Sunday, with approximately 10 minutes between buses. Both loops are free to all riders.
Thon is free and open to the public, but attendees must obtain a digital line management system wristband from the will call window, located between gates A and B. The wristbands, which must be worn at all times inside the building, help volunteers manage wait times and entrance into the BJC.
With thousands of visitors anticipated to visit University Park this weekend, Penn State is urging anyone who is experiencing symptoms of the flu to not attend the weekend event in order to avoid individuals with compromised immune systems who will be attending Thon.
If you can’t make it in person, the Thon Weekend 2020 Livestream can be found at thon.org/livestream.
Thon first started in 1973 with 78 dancers participating in what was a 30-hour dance marathon. The first event collected more than $2,000. Since the initial fundraiser, Thon has grown. Last year, the event raised more than $10.6 million and featured over 700 participatnts. In total, the event has raised more than $157 million.
For more information, visit THON.org.
This story was originally published February 21, 2020 at 1:46 PM.
