It’s that time, folks.

THON Weekend is right around the corner, and everyone has their own opinion about who could possibly be the National Act performer. Every year, THON has a nationally known celebrity performer to kick off the weekend, last year’s being The Fray.

With rumors spreading fast, we asked our staff to share their predictions on who might take the stage.

Emma Bannister: OneRepublic

OneRepublic would make an amazing National Act at THON. I think they’re the perfect band to kick off the first night of the weekend and help keep everyone’s energy up. There have been both solo acts and bands that have performed during THON weekend, and OneRepublic’s uplifting music would put a smile on everyone’s face. They have plenty of hits that everyone would know, enjoy, and sing along to. I think the BJC would be thrilled to hear songs like “I Lived” and “Good Life” during what is one of the most unifying weekends at Penn State.

Lyndsay Camp: Journey

The band is the typical THON lineup— a few hits that everyone knows that have been out for a while. I mean, “Don’t Stop Believin’” is one of the most perfect songs for the weekend. It encourages the dancers to keep on keeping on while also spreading a nice, heartwarming message to everyone currently in the fight. Also, their farewell tour starts later this month, so what better way to practice than at THON?

Tia Kaschauer: The Script

I strongly believe it will be The Script. After last year’s performance from The Fray, I think that 1000% locked in a great performance by The Script. I would say a lot of their music is FTK-approved and appropriate. I really hope it’s The Script, or else I might be a little sad…

Michael Siroty: Maroon 5

These guys are awesome. If you’re reading this, go listen to some Maroon 5, especially if you’re a college kid. You’ll be surprised by how many 2000s bangers they had.

Julia Romankow: Benson Boone

Benson Boone would be the perfect candidate for THON’s National Act. Boone topped the charts in 2025 with songs like “Beautiful Things” and “Mystical, Magical.” Singing isn’t the only thing he is known for, as there are countless videos of Boone doing backflips while performing. With his high energy and fun music, I think Boone is the perfect candidate for the National Act.

Ally Eaton: Train

My pick and prediction for this year’s National Act is Train! Not touring again until summer 2026, this isn’t some “Drive By” guess — it’s a very realistic possibility. Train is a little bit bigger than artists in previous years, but with growing totals and participation, it just makes sense. The BJC lit up, and singing “Hey, Soul Sister” would be an awesome experience, and I’m crossing my fingers that I’m right with this pick.

Melanie Thalhimer: OneRepublic

My pick for this year’s National Act guest is OneRepublic. This 2010s band has recently fallen off the train a bit, but their discography of many hits will surely get the BJC dancing and singing. Over the last couple of years, One Republic has only toured outside the United States. With their only 2026 tour date so far being at BYU Idaho, this presents the perfect opportunity to bring them to Happy Valley. Also, it’s always been a dream of mine to see them in concert. I mean, who doesn’t want to hear “I Lived,” “Good Life,” or “Counting Stars” live, especially at THON?

Madison Sonsowski: The Script

While this might be a popular guess, I think it will be The Script. Just imagine the last song being “Breakeven,” the whole BJC filled, thousands of students brought together with the energy high. With last year being The Fray, I think The Script would keep that same emotional, hopeful energy going, and it would be a perfect way to end Friday night.

Malea Nadeo: Coldplay

In my opinion, I feel like Coldplay has really been the talk of the town this past year. Not only would it be awesome to see such a big band, but “Adventure of a Lifetime” and “A Sky Full of Stars” are both songs that are always played at THON events, so why not bring them to the stage to hear these songs in person?

Ashley Connington: Jonas Brothers

We know they love Penn State, and Joe Jonas sent a video in for THON 2024. A girl can dream.