One of Suffolk’s biggest and most highly anticipated fundraising events of the year is set for Friday at Nansemond River High School.

The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life will be held from 6 p.m. to midnight, and all are invited to attend, whether they have registered to participate or not.

Registered participants have spent the last several months doing various fundraisers to bring in money for the American Cancer Society. So far, the participants have raised more than $50,000. The goal is $200,000, but plenty of money is expected to come in during and after the event.

For those who are not registered, there is still time to do so, by visiting relayforlife.org/suffolkva. Doing so will help the ACS raise money for its fight against cancer. But even those who simply want to attend to watch the ceremonies or enjoy the food and entertainment available at the Relay can help with the fundraising through onsite donations or purchases.

After an opening ceremony, the event kicks off with a survivor lap and caregiver lap. A lap honoring military men and women, veterans and first responders also will be featured.

The emotional luminaria ceremony will take place at 10 p.m. Hundreds of candles will be lit in honor of and in memory of people who have survived or died of cancer.

Entertainment during the event will include the Joint Therapy Band, Paul Jarman and the Joe Gosman Band. For kids, there will be a petting zoo. Knockerball, karaoke and life-sized dinosaurs will entertain all ages.

“The feeling of being at a Relay for Life event is indescribable,” said Tara Asare, community manager for the Relay. “It helps people not only in the Suffolk community but also nationwide, and that’s always a good feeling. It’s good to connect with people who have gone through the same thing as you.”

Cancer is a disease that has affected, directly or indirectly, nearly everyone in Suffolk. You can help honor those who have fought battles with the disease — and help the American Cancer Society pursue a cure — by taking part in this fun, family activity.

Relay ON!