Taylor and Nick Cushion along with their dog Brooklyn cross under the Survivor Arch at last year's Relay for Life event at the Butler Farm Show Grounds. A Relay for Life event is planned June 22 in Cranberry Township.

CRANBERRY TWP — With a goal of raising $150,000 for cancer research, those participating in the 16th annual Relay for Life in the township later this month are hoping to make it the biggest event thus far.

The event, which will run from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. June 22 at North Boundary Park in the township, has raised nearly $2 million locally in a 16-year period, according to Alex Vaughan, community development manager for the event.

This year's theme is Biggest Birthday Party in the Park, during which birthday party games will be played throughout the day. A pizza party will be held for dinner.

The event will feature staples of Relay for Life events, including the luminaria walk. Participants can dedicate a luminaria to a loved one lost, battling or who has overcome cancer. A survivor's luncheon will be held free for those who have battled and defeated cancer. After dark, the luminarias are lit and a moment of silence is held to remember loved ones to whom they are dedicated.

Another staple of Relay events, the survivor and caregiver walk, will be held to honor those who have battled cancer and those who have helped them in that fight.

Entertainment will include live music from Flashback, a Kids Korner by Goddard Girls, games and inflatables as well as live painting by George Williams.

Teams, companies and individuals are invited to participate in the event. As of Wednesday, more than $71,000 has been raised toward the $150,000 goal. For more information or to donate, visit https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR/RelayForLife.