Fatherhood Meets Fun at the Inaugural Dadcathlon This June
Who’s the fastest at packing lunches? Who can dodge disaster while multitasking like a pro? This Father’s Day weekend, dads are stepping up for the ultimate test of parenting skills at the first-ever Dadcathlon — coming June 14, 2025! Hosted by Joseph Gidjunis and organized by the PBS series Grown Up Dad, this fun and fiercely competitive event shines a spotlight on the real, often overlooked talents fathers bring to family life. Join us from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the North Light Community Center in Philadelphia’s Manayunk neighborhood for a celebration of modern fatherhood like you’ve never seen before.
EVENT FORMAT
The Dadcathlon includes eight total events.
Four group events where all participants compete at once
Four individual station events, completed in rotation
GROUP STATION EVENTS
These challenges are designed for maximum chaos—and maximum laughs—as all participants compete side by side:
PB&J Crust-Off Rush
Two minutes. One loaf of bread. How many crust-free sandwiches can you make under pressure?
Inconvenient Stain Removal
Armed with only water and a napkin, dads attempt to save a ketchup-stained kid’s shirt before the next family photo.
Last Minute Birthday Wrap
Tame the tape, fight the folds. Dads wrap absurdly shaped gifts against the clock.
Untangle the Cord During the Big Meeting
Multitask like a legend: untangle a cable mess while answering pop quiz “boss” questions without missing a beat.
INDIVIDUAL ROTATION EVENTS
Participants cycle through these hands-on challenges:
Lego Walk
Cross a minefield of bare-footed doom. The farther you go, the more points you earn. Pain is temporary, glory is forever.
Scheduling Headaches
Juggle a puzzle of pick-ups, practices, and potlucks. Bonus points for not forgetting the dog.
Baby Bottom Clean & Swaddle
Speed meets precision. Diaper, clean, and swaddle your way to victory—without losing the baby wipe.
Don’t Spill the Juice
Race through an obstacle course with a full cup. Speed matters, but so does keeping that juice off your shirt.
Spectators Welcome!
Bring the family and cheer on your favorite dad as he battles clutter, chaos, and cord tangles in pursuit of eternal parenting glory. There will be fun for all ages, local refreshments, and special behind-the-scenes content from Grown Up Dad.
We’re looking for 12 dads ready to take on eight fun and challenging tasks that will test everything from speed and creativity to teamwork and resilience. Think you have what it takes — or know someone who does? Sign up to compete or nominate a dad today, and be part of this unforgettable event!