The Penn Relays, presented by Toyota, is the world’s first—and most widely recognized—annual relay meet. This year’s event will take place from April 27-29, 2023.

Each year, the event draws crowds of up to 100,000 to the University of Pennsylvania’s historic Franklin Field. Spectators will see some of the world’s top track and field athletes compete. Both athletes and fans hail from all over the country and around the world. There is also an accompanying carnival offering food and souvenirs.

Over the course of the three-day festival, top high school, collegiate, Olympic development, and masters athletes take to Franklin Field for events like the 4 × 400 meter relay, javelin, pole vault, 100-meter dash, mile runs, sprints and more in hopes of bringing home the elusive Penn Relays Wheel.

The Penn Relays’ status as America’s largest amateur track meet goes back to the very first running meet, held in 1895 to stoke flagging student interest in track and field. That event drew 5,000 spectators, the largest audience for a track meet in Philadelphia up to that time.

The relays have played an important role in Philadelphia’s cultural life from their beginning. They were one of few major events that accepted African American competitors, and were one of the high points on the African American social calendar.

For more information about the Penn Relays, including an event schedule and ticketing options, visit https://pennrelays.com/. Single-day and three-day tickets to the Penn Relays can be purchased online.

FAQs

What happens if there is inclement weather?

The Penn Relays is a rain-or-shine event. There is no rain date schedule for the Penn Relays. Please be advised that umbrellas are prohibited from being brought into the venue.

Can I ride the train to the Penn Relays?

Yes. Amtrak offers convenient service to the Philadelphia 30th Street Station, just a few blocks from Franklin Field, the home of the Penn Relays.

Can I take public transportation to the Penn Relays?

Yes, SEPTA offers convenient subway service via the Market-Frankford Line stopping at the 30th Street Station or 34th & Market Streets. The SEPTA Regional Rail has stops at the 30th Street Station or just outside Franklin Field at the Penn Medicine Station. In addition, Franklin Field is served by SEPTA bus routes 21, 40, 42, and 49.

Is youth ticket pricing available?

There is no youth ticket pricing available for the 2023 Penn Relays.

Are group tickets available?

Group tickets will not be available for the 2023 Penn Relays. Elementary, middle, and high schools attending Thursday or Friday of Penn Relays qualify for the School Days discount. Visit the School Days page for more information.

Can I bring my bag into the Penn Relays?

That depends on the size of the bag. Bags must be smaller than 16”x16”x8” and will be subject to a search by security personnel. No large bags, like duffel/equipment bags, or backpacks will be permitted. Exceptions may be made for participants and coaches. All bags are subject to search by security personnel.

Is there parking near Franklin Field?

Limited parking is available on Penn’s campus for $25. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The following garages will be open for the Penn Relays:

• Museum Garage, South & Convention Street (Accepts cash and credit)
• Chestnut 34, 34th & Chestnut Streets (Accepts cash and credit)
• Walnut 38, 38th & Walnut Streets (Accepts cash and credit)
• Walnut 40, 40th & Walnut Streets (ONLY accepts credit) 

For more information, visit upenn.edu/parking.

Can I bring food into The Penn Relays?

Outside food must be wrapped in clear plastic and fit inside a clear 12” x 6” x 12” bag or clear one gallon freezer bag. There is a limit of one food bag per guest. Large quantities of food items in containers such as pizza boxes or catering trays are prohibited. Concessions stands and food vendors are located throughout the concourse, Carnival Village, and in Penn Park Village. Fans can bring in sealed plastic water bottles, juice boxes, or pouches. Other prohibited items include coolers, glass bottles, cans, and alcohol. Please visit for a full list of permitted and prohibited items.

Is the Penn Relays impacted by COVID-19?

Spectators are not required to show proof of vaccination to gain admission through designated fan entrance gates. Spectators should continue to monitor their health symptoms daily and not attend the 2023 Penn Relays if they are sick. Masks are currently not required to be worn indoors, however spectators are welcome to wear masks both indoors and outdoors as they feel comfortable.