FAQs

Big Climb Philly is a high energy stair-climbing event at Subaru Park, home of the Philadelphia Union, on May 31, 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 the 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 8:00 am with the first wave starting at 9:00 am. Waves will then run every 15 minutes. 

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 free and available in Lot G. A parking map can be found on the Philadelphia Union website. 

Can I take public transportation to/from the event?
This event is no accessible via public transportation. 

Can I bring anything with me during the climb other than my phone?
Backpacks, fanny packs, and baby carriers are all allowed on the climb route. 

Is there a bag check area provided?
There will be a free bag check area for personal items in the festival area.  

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 2,000 steps. 

Where are water stops?
There will be water stops placed throughout Subaru Park. 

Will food be available at the event?
Complimentary snacks and water will be available for all climbers in Base Camp. 

Can my friends and family wait for me at the finish line?
Family members can wait for their climbers at Base Camp. Our young spectators can hang out in the Kid Zone where we will have a variety of family friendly activities including a soccer area, mission activities, face painting, a visit from the Union’s mascot, Phang, and more! 

What is the Summit Club?
The Summit Club offers an exclusive experience for climbers who have fundraised $1,000 or more prior to the event. Summit Club will be in the Primepoint Club– a premium space located at Subaru Park with views of the entire climb. Complimentary food and beverages will be provided as well as exclusive Summit Club only experiences. 

What do I do when I’m done climbing?
A climber can head back to base camp at anytime during their climb. Exit out onto the concourse and follow staff and/or volunteer guidance. 

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