On Thursday, 4/28, the Penn Relays Carnival kicks off its 126th year at University of Pennsylvania’s Franklin Field in University City. This annual event is the first – and most widely recognized – relay meet in the world. Each spring, spectators from near and far head to Franklin Field to see some of the world’s top track athletes compete. Don’t miss your chance to witness history and take part in one of Philadelphia’s greatest traditions.
Over the course of the three-day event, top high school, collegiate, masters, and even Olympic athletes take the field in hopes of bringing home a medal. The meet is accompanied by a festival offering food, crafts, and souvenirs along the streets surround the stadium. Whether you’re an avid track and field fan or just want to experience a Philadelphia tradition, the Penn Relay Carnival is a can’t-miss event.
With an expected attendance of 75,000 to 90,000, avoid traffic and parking costs and take SEPTA. Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 34th Street Station. Franklin Field, located on 33rd & Walnut, is just a few blocks away. Coming from the suburbs? Take any SEPTA Regional Rail Line to 30th Street Station and make the short walk to the stadium. Select trains go to Penn Medicine Station which is right across the street from the field. If you're traveling by bus, you can take Route 21, Route 40, Route 42, or Route 49. Additionally, trolley routes 11, 13, 34, and 36 will get you there.
Due to the large number of participants and spectators anticipated for these events, SEPTA will be providing special sales of One-Day Independence Passes at Airport Terminal A and Eastwick Station from 6:00am to 12:00pm each day. If hotel guests plan to use SEPTA Regional Rail for travel to the events, SEPTA recommends purchasing this fare in advance, at Airport Terminal A or Eastwick Station, to receive the best purchase value.
One Day Individual Independence Pass
Activated for use upon first tap
Valid for up to 10 rides on SEPTA vehicles, including travel on Regional Rail
All trips must be taken in one day
One Day Individual Independence Pass Price: $13.00
Fare Kiosks are also available at the Philadelphia Airport for One Way Quick Trips and Key card purchases. Key cards have a travel wallet feature which allows customers to add funds and receive the lowest price when traveling.
SEPTA Fare Information:
SEPTA | One Way Regional Rail Pricing
215-580-7800
Penn Relays Website: Penn Relays - Official Athletics Website
Event Schedule: 2022 Penn Relays presented by Toyota SCHEDULE - Penn Relays
Thursday, 4/28: 9:00AM – 10:30PM
Friday, 4/29: 9:00AM – 10:00PM
Saturday, 4/30: 7:00AM – 6:30PM
SEPTA Airport Line Inbound and Outbound Service to/from Airport Terminal A and Penn Medicine Station
Thursday, 4/28 & Friday, 4/29 Inbound service: every 30 minutes beginning at 5:11AM; ending at 12:11AM
Thursday, 4/28 & Friday, 4/29 Outbound service: every 30 minutes beginning at 4:32AM; ending at 11:32PM
Saturday, 4/30 Inbound service: every hour beginning at 6:27AM; ending at 12:27AM
Saturday, 4/30 Outbound service: every hour beginning at 5:32AM; ending at 11:32PM
And remember - with all the activities going on in the area, there will be detours in University City. Keep an eye on HERE for notices of these detours and potential delays.
Whether you’re an avid track and field fan or just want to experience a Philadelphia tradition, the Penn Relays Carnival is a can’t-miss event. Enjoy the races!