Year 30 : The Main Event

From February 27th to March 2nd, 2025, all of the hard work from our dancers, sponsors, and internal team members culminated in the Main Event of the 30th Year of Dance Marathon at Florida State University. Gathered together in the Tucker Carlson Civic Center, we watched miracles come true and bonds strengthen, all in support of UF Health Shands Children's Hospital and the FSU College of Medicine Pediatric Outreach Program. As each shift began, dancers were welcomed through our morale tunnel. More alive than ever, the tunnel provided the confidence boost necessary to enter the next 10 or 20 hours (or both). After the introductions of our wonderful ambassador families and welcome speeches were complete, the excitement commenced. 

Every hour on the hour, we all gathered on Big Red (a large red carpet that serves as the center of the event) and did the line dance; a true testament to the unity that CMN Hospitals brings to all whom it touches. Following the dance, a miracle story from one of our families was shared, each building on the next to show just how impactful the fundraising we are completing is. Alongside that, dispersed around the Civic Center were stations filled with engaging activities to foster friendships and maintain high morale. Crafts, basketball, Dancer Deserted Island, and more all helped keep our dancers on their feet with continuous donations coming in. 

The Main Event also included various performances from DJ L. Smooth, Fallen Timber, and the well-acquainted Doug the Hypnotist, which made the dancers have no problem spending time on Big Red. Pair that with FSU’s very own Accabelles, Mariachi Band, and Marching Chiefs, it was clear that Seminole pride was in full swing. We also cannot forget the amazing dances brought to us by many different organizations. It's safe to say that during those 30 hours, entertainment was not a factor anybody needed to worry about. Even during the grueling hours of the night, we were amazed at the turnout at our silent disco; which included some of the most lively hours of the entire weekend. 

However, while we were having this fun, we never lost sight of our mission to do the best we could for patients all around the country. We shared stories of those we know, those we miss, and those we anticipate meeting. With matching and power hours, dancers were able to dial in on their fundraising and surpass their wildest goals. The immense efforts came together and led us to our final hours on March 3rd. Soon enough, it was time for the final reveal.

It is with the utmost pride and fulfillment that we share that Year 30 of Dance Marathon at Florida State University raised $1,334,457.78 for our beneficiaries. 

After many laughs, hugs, and tears everyone walked out of the Civic Center that afternoon with a renewed sense of hope. We are beyond excited to see what the next year will bring for this incredible cause and campus alike. Ultimately, just like Year 30 and every year that came before, there is no more rewarding feeling than seeing the outcome of what happens When We Believe.

Year 30 Final Reveal (March 2, 2025)

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Written By: Tenleigh Edwards-Hetzler