Rock 102 to Host Annual Mayflower Marathon to Benefit Open Pantry

SPRINGFIELD — For the 31st consecutive year, Rock 102 is hosting its annual Mayflower Marathon food drive to benefit Springfield’s Open Pantry. This year, the tradition returns to MGM Springfield over the three days leading up to Thanksgiving. Bax & Nagle will broadcast for 52 hours while collecting non-perishable food donations for Open Pantry Community Services of Springfield.

As Open Pantry continues to see growing demand for its services, with one in four families in the Springfield area suffering from food insecurity, the need for donations of non-perishable food items is constant. The outpouring of support from area residents and businesses (including the Springfield Thunderbirds, Capitol Relocation and Logistics, Xfinity, Camping World of West Hatfield, Arment Trucking, and many more) has historically been significant, and organizers hope that support continues in 2024.

Scheduled interview guests for this year’s Mayflower Marathon include West Springfield native Mike Scully, former executive producer of The Simpsons; comedians Fitzy, Tom Cotter, and Bob Marley; and more. The Mayflower Marathon begins at 6 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 25 and runs until 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27. It takes place by the South End Market at MGM Springfield.