The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Schuylkill County will return to Bubeck Park in Schuylkill Haven on Saturday, June 13, 2026, bringing the community together once again under this year’s western-themed banner, “Wrangling For A Cure.”
Organizers say the annual event continues to play a vital role in the fight against cancer. In 2026, an estimated 2.1 million new cancer cases and more than 610,000 cancer deaths are expected nationwide, including more than 95,000 new cases in Pennsylvania alone.
This marks the third consecutive year the event will be held at Bubeck Park, providing a meaningful setting for survivors, caregivers, families, and supporters to gather in hope and remembrance.
“Relay For Life is more than just a walk. It is a volunteer-led movement that unites our community to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost, and raise funds to fight back against cancer,” said Trysha Nettles, event co-chair. “This year’s theme, ‘Wrangling For A Cure,’ reflects our determination to rope in hope, strength, and support as we continue the fight. Cancer has touched so many families in Schuylkill County, and Relay gives us the opportunity to stand together and make a difference.”
Event Schedule – “Wrangling For A Cure”
The day will feature western-themed fun, live entertainment, and powerful ceremonies:
12:00 PM – Opening Ceremony
The official kickoff celebrating survivors, honoring loved ones, and launching a day of fundraising and community spirit.1:00 PM – Teams Lap
Participating teams take to the track together to show their commitment to the cause.1:45 PM – Patriotic Lap (Flag Day/250th Anniversary of the USA)
Participants are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue in honor of Flag Day and the nation’s 250th anniversary.2:00–3:30 PM – Live Music by Accidental Preachers
The local favorite band will provide live entertainment.3:45 PM – Dress Like a Cowboy/Cowgirl Lap
Boots and hats are encouraged for this western-themed lap around the track.4:00 PM – Survivor Program & Survivor Lap
A special ceremony honoring cancer survivors, followed by a celebratory lap. Survivors can register free of charge and will receive light refreshments, gift bags, and recognition.5:00 PM – Stick Horse Lap
A family-friendly favorite for children and the young at heart.5:30 PM – Award Ceremony
Recognition of outstanding teams, fundraisers, and supporters.6:00–7:00 PM – Dance Xplosion Demonstration
A high-energy performance by Dance Xplosion.7:00 PM – Fight Back Ceremony
Participants make personal commitments to take action against cancer.8:30 PM / Dusk – Luminaria Ceremony
A moving tribute to honor survivors and remember those lost. Luminaria bags, decorated in memory or honor of loved ones, will line the track as names are read aloud.
Activities Throughout the Day
In addition to the scheduled events, attendees can enjoy:
Highland cows onsite
A western-themed photo booth
The purple chair photo opportunity
Stick horse building station
Bandana decorating
Lap beads updates
Hourly fundraising total updates
Food vendors, concessions, and community vendors
A Global Movement with Local Impact
Founded in 1985 by Dr. Gordy Klatt in Tacoma, Washington, Relay For Life has grown into the world’s largest peer-to-peer fundraising movement dedicated to saving lives from cancer. Since its inception, Relay For Life events worldwide have raised nearly $7 billion to support the mission of the American Cancer Society.
Funds raised locally help support groundbreaking research, advocacy efforts, and free patient programs such as rides to treatment, lodging during care, and the American Cancer Society’s 24/7 helpline.
How to Get Involved
There are many ways for individuals and organizations to support the Relay For Life of Schuylkill County:
Join a Team
Sign up as a participant, start a team with friends and family, or walk as a survivor or caregiver at RelayForLife.org/schuylkillpa.
Donate
Contributions help fund lifesaving research, patient programs, advocacy efforts, and 24/7 support services.
Calling All Local Businesses & Organizations
Relay For Life offers businesses a meaningful opportunity to make a visible impact in Schuylkill County.
Become a Sponsor
Sponsors receive public recognition throughout the event, social media promotion, and visibility among hundreds of local participants and families while helping fund research and patient services.
Start a Corporate Team
Corporate teams can:
Engage employees in friendly fundraising competition
Strengthen workplace camaraderie
Increase brand visibility
Honor employees or family members impacted by cancer
Become a Vendor or Donate a Raffle Item
Businesses can host vendor booths, donate raffle baskets, or contribute in-kind services.
Organizers invite local businesses, civic groups, churches, and community organizations to stand together in the fight against cancer.
For sponsorship information or to get involved, email schuylkillrelay@gmail.com.