On the day

A team going round the Relay track on purple spacehoppers!

What happens at Relay For Life?

At a Relay, you can expect a lively mix of music, games, entertainment, food, fundraising – and perhaps a few surprises!

Why not watch our Relay For Life video to see for yourself?

Although every Relay is unique, there are key elements that can be found in all Relay events across the world. These include:

The Relay

Throughout the event, lots of fun activities take place and help to create a carnival atmosphere. As the celebrations are in full swing, members of each team take turns to walk around the track for 12 – 24 hours. This marks the fact that cancer never sleeps. Find a Relay happening near you

Survivors' Lap of Honour

Every Relay For Life begins with the inspiring Survivors' Lap of Honour. Cancer survivors walk the first lap of the course to celebrate life and the efforts we are all making to help beat cancer.

Candle of Hope Ceremony

As the evening draws in, everyone gathers to light Candles of Hope and pay tribute to those whose lives have been affected by cancer. Bags are decorated and filled with sand and a glowing candle. When the candles are lit, poignant messages of remembrance and celebration glow around the track. With the ceremony in their minds the teams return to the Relay.

To dedicate a Candle of Hope, find your nearest Relay and download a Candle of Hope form.

The closing ceremony

At the end of the Relay, everyone joins together for a final lap to celebrate their fundraising achievements and look back on an unforgettable Relay For Life.

Get involved

"There's a great community feeling about it, really good team spirit, a great family event. It's really good fun."
Steve Winters, Relay participant, 2007