Good morning, State College.

THON 2026 ended its final day with vibrant performances and heartfelt displays captured by local photographers.

The event wrapped up at 4 p.m. and raised $18,841,726.53 (over 1 million more than last year) as local community spirit shone through every moment.

At THON 2026, concessions stations use cameras to record what customers take after paying up front — a system designed to deliver a fast and secure transaction process at the fundraiser.

A German family shared their journey with cancer as THON and Four Diamonds provided no-bill support that helped them focus on living fully, including teaching and travel.

Their story shows how community care made a lasting difference over more than 20-year challenges.

Alpha Kappa Psi's THON chair, Zach Jarrett, dedicated 46 hours supporting families including one with a young cancer patient during the 54th THON at Bryce Jordan Center on Feb.

21–22. His teammates offered motivational texts and cheers as he inspired his fraternity on the event floor.

At BJC on Sunday night, THON Weekend showcased live music from Penn State acapella groups, dance routines, fun stage games (including ‘Guess the Brain Rot’) and hydration breaks that kept dancers energized until sunrise.

Penn State marketing senior Elizabeth Pearson danced at THON 2026 this past weekend with her club lacrosse team to raise funds and awareness for pediatric cancer — she honored a late teammate and marked a milestone in her college journey.

Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi appeared at THON 2026 on Sunday morning before 9 a.m. and led a chant while praising students, committees, donors, families, and kids at the annual event.

Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Basketball

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Bryce Jordan Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting college basketball showdown between two powerhouse teams.

Tipa Tipo with El Combo Del Valle

7-10 p.m. — Manny's Live Performance Space — From $11.99 — Experience a fresh blend of 70s soft rock and Latin rhythms with Tipa Tipo's tropical yacht rock en español.

LaMP Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — The State Theatre — Cost info not provided — Experience the unique fusion of sounds from drummer Russ Lawton, organist Ray Paczkowski, and guitarist Scott Metzger.

America at 250 Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Nittany Valley Symphony — Ticket purchase required — Celebrate a diverse musical heritage with American masterpieces across genres.

2026 Penn State Bass Expo

March 20-21 — Penn State School of Music — Free entry — Celebrate double bass artistry with guest musicians and a vibrant community atmosphere.

The Shawshank Redemption Screening

8:00-9:31 p.m. — The State Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the timeless story of hope and friendship within the confines of a prison.

Better Than Ezra Live

8-11 p.m. — The State Theatre — Ticket limit: 10 per customer — Experience legendary rock music with Better Than Ezra's engaging performance.

Crafts & Cocktails at The Rivet

This adults-only, station-based evening gives you a punch card to enjoy craft activities *and* craft cocktails and mocktails. Every ticket sold supports STEM and maker programs for our community, so get your ticket (3/25 or 5/6) and let's craft for a cause!