FAQs

Big Climb Central Pennsylvania is a high energy stair-climbing event at FNB Field, on City Island, on April 5, 2025. But it is more than just that. It’s an inspiring, fun & motivating experience. At the event, you will hear from survivors and fellow participants to get you pumped to conquer your climb. A local honored hero will send you off on your climb, motivating you to reach the top. Before and after your climb, enjoy a festival style atmosphere with activities for the whole family to get you ready for or to recover from your climb. All proceeds from the event will fund the LLS mission to cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

 

REGISTRATION FEE

Registration is FREE for all participants up to 30 days before your event. After the 30-day mark, registrants pay $50 to make the Big Climb experience special in every city – separate from your fundraising.

 

FUNDRAISING

Is there a fundraising minimum?
Big Climb’s fundraising commitment is $150 for adults and $50 for kids and teens. As Big Climbers are a committed crew, we know your passion will get you to the threshold in no time. And LLS will be there with tools to help you at every step. Get started today!

Where do my donations go?
All donations from Big Climb help support the mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: to cure all blood cancers and improve quality of life for patients and their families.

When is the fundraising deadline?
To receive a Big Climb Tech T-shirt, you must reach $250 raised prior to the event day. You also have the opportunity to continue to fundraise after the event to further support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission to cure blood cancer. The more your raise, the more you are rewarded. Check out the recognition page for more information.

 

GENERAL EVENT

What is the age minimum allowed to climb?
All participants must be 8 years of age on the day of Big Climb. There will be no exceptions to this rule.

How do teams work?
When you sign up as a team, you are signing up to climb at the same time slot. Your team captain will submit preferences, when prompted by LLS, for climb times and the whole team climbs during that time. No exceptions.

Can I change my start time?
No. All start times are final. No exceptions.

 

DAY OF EVENT

What time does the event start?
The event doors will open at 8:30 am with the Opening Ceremony beginning at 9:00 am. 

Can I register on event day?
Registration will be available online on event day starting from 5:00 am until 2:00 pm. Those who register in person may have to wait for an available wave time and may have to climb separately from requested participants or teams.    

Where can I park?
Parking is available on the North lot of City Island. This is the lot closest to the stadium, between Market St. and the Walnut St. Bridge. 

Can I take public transportation to/from the event?
Participants must commute to the event by vehicle. 

Can I bring anything with me during the climb other than my phone?
Backpacks, hydration packs, baby carriers, etc. are allowed. 

Is there a bag check area provided?
Do not bring anything with you that you are unable to climb with or cannot be held by a non-climbing family member as there will not be secure place to store your belongings. 

What time should I arrive?
30-45 minutes prior to your assigned start time. Please take into consideration the time it will take you to find parking. 

Where do I line up for my climb time?
Announcements will be made 15 minutes prior to your start time. 

How many steps will I be climbing?
Participants will climb 1,000 steps. 

Where are water stops?
There will be water and snacks available for all climbers at Base Camp. Please bring a water bottle if you would like to have water while climbing.

Will food be available at the event?
There will be light snacks for all climbers. 

Can my friends and family wait for me at the finish line?
Family members can wait for their climbers at Base Camp.  

What is the Summit Club?
Summit Club is located on the Club Kevel behind home plate of FNB field. Participants are encouraged to head to Summit Club after finishing their climb to enjoy the view along with some food and beverages. 

Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, dogs and other animals are not allowed at the event.