Penn State Things Longer Than The Water Fountain Lines At THON 2026

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The long lines at the water refill stations during Penn State's annual THON dance marathon are a rite of passage, but the author argues that there are other Penn State experiences that test one's patience even more, such as the crowds at Beaver Stadium on game days, the lines at the beloved Creamery ice cream shop, and the wait times for ordering food from the popular Edge restaurant.

Why it matters

This lighthearted article highlights the unique challenges and quirks of the Penn State experience, from the school's passionate sports culture to its beloved food and drink establishments. It serves as a reminder that even minor inconveniences like long lines can be put into perspective when considering the larger context of Penn State's vibrant campus life.

The details

The author points to several examples of Penn State experiences that take longer than waiting in line for water at THON. The crowds at Beaver Stadium on game days, where fans line up to enter the stadium, can rival the THON water lines. The Creamery, a beloved ice cream shop, also sees massive lines, especially when alumni and visitors are on campus for games. And ordering food from the popular Edge restaurant on weekends can mean waiting over an hour for your order. The author even jokingly compares the THON water line to watching 10 minutes of Penn State basketball, which can "challenge your soul".

• The THON dance marathon takes place every year in February at Penn State.
• Penn State football games are held on Saturdays in the fall.