Erie, Pennsylvania will host the 2026 U.S. National Firefighter Challenge Championship from Sept. 23 through the 26, 2026, presented by Snap-tite Hose, a leading firefighting hose manufacturer based in Erie County.
The event will attract hundreds of firefighter athletes, families, and fans for four days of elite competition and community engagement.
This national championship marks the culmination of the Firefighter Challenge season and follows the success of Erie’s 2025 Northeast Region Classic. The Challenge tests firefighters’ strength, speed, and skill through demanding tasks like stair climbs, hose drags, and victim rescues—earning its reputation as “the toughest two minutes in sports.”
Throughout the event guests can expect individual, tandem, and relay events in downtown Erie. There will be public viewing areas, interactive exhibits, and youth engagement activities. Vendors will showcase featured top fire-service brands.
This event will create an economic impact through tourism and local business participation.
Erie was chosen specifically for its strong community support, event-hosting capability, and partnership with Snap-tite Hose. The Firefighter Challenge series promotes fitness, readiness, and teamwork in the fire service while inspiring public appreciation.