The time is almost here. THON weekend is quickly approaching.

Whether you’re a seasoned THON pro or this is your first THON, we have created the perfect guide to help you prepare for the long weekend ahead.

Timeline

THON 2026 will kick off on Friday, February 20, and run through Sunday, February 22, at the Bryce Jordan Center. Entrance to THON is free for students and the public. Those wishing to attend can obtain a wristband in the general spectator line at will-call between gates A and B. You must keep this bracelet on for the entirety of THON weekend and wear it the entire time you are in the BJC.

Doors will open at 4 p.m., with dancers standing at 6 p.m. Although there isn’t a specific timeline, Friday and Saturday nights usually feature a concert with a well-known musical artist. The Pep Rally, showcasing all your favorite Penn State athletes, usually takes place on Saturday night ahead of the national act. To close out the weekend, Final Four begins at noon on Sunday and lasts through 4 p.m. (which is a pretty emotional time, so bring tissues).

There are times when the BJC will reach capacity, so keep that in mind. When that happens, spectators cannot enter the BJC. Although it is almost impossible to predict exactly when this will occur, it is most likely Friday night, Saturday afternoon/evening, and late Sunday morning.

If capacity is reached, a THON volunteer will ask for your cell phone number and scan you into a digital line. You will then be called back to the BJC when it has reopened, or it is your turn. There are three ways to receive updates: via text message when it is your turn to enter the building, through @pennstatethon updates on Instagram stories, or by checking the status here. Once you receive a text message, you have 45 minutes to return and enter the BJC.

Parking

Parking is free for THON weekend!

General parking for spectators can be found in the Stadium West Parking Lot, accessible via Park Ave, Jordan East Commuter Lot, and Porter North throughout THON Weekend. There is no time limit for these parking lots, and the overnight, 2 a.m. to 4 a.m., time restrictions will also be lifted.

Bag Policy

THON has a clear bag policy. Acceptable bags include clear tote bags that measure 12″ x 12″ x 6″, resealable gallon clear bags measuring 11″ x 11″ x 0″ or smaller, and any wallet, clutch, or fanny pack measuring 6.5″ x 4.5″ or smaller.

Purses, larger than a clutch, and backpacks, totes, or cases of any kind that don’t follow the rules above will be prohibited.

Other

Items such as large flagpoles, sports equipment (basketballs, baseballs, etc.), glitter, silly string, or weapons of any kind are prohibited. All liquids are also banned, except for sealed bubbles.

Some recommended items to bring include a good pair of shoes, a disposable camera, a portable charger, an empty reusable water bottle, and a tennis ball for those standing for long periods of time.

Get excited because we dance in seven days, folks!