By Gary Robinson, AvidCyclist.com
If you are looking for a cycling event that perfectly blends the joy of riding with the vibrant energy of a music festival, look no further than the Pedaler’s Jamboree in Missouri. Held annually over Memorial Day Weekend, this unique event transforms the historic Katy Trail into a 32.7-mile rolling celebration of bicycles, live music, and community spirit.
The 2026 edition is set to take place on Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, promising another unforgettable weekend for cyclists and music lovers alike.
The Pedaler’s Jamboree, affectionately known as “PedJam,” is not a race; it is a leisurely migration where the journey is just as important as the destination. Riders depart from Columbia, Missouri, and pedal their way to Boonville, stopping at various trailside communities to enjoy live bands, local food, and the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. The following day, the route reverses, bringing riders back to Columbia with even more music along the way
The Origin and Evolution of PedJam
The Pedaler’s Jamboree was founded in 2009 by Mike Denehy, the director of Off Track Events.
Denehy’s motivation was simple yet profound: he wanted to create an event that fostered more social interaction within the community. “I know it’s cliché, but the people really are the best part,” Denehy noted when reflecting on the event’s success.
What started as a local gathering has since blossomed into a beloved tradition that draws riders from across the Midwest and beyond.
Over the years, the event has seen its share of challenges and triumphs. In 2019, historic flooding along the Missouri River caused significant damage to sections of the Katy Trail, forcing organizers to temporarily reroute the 2021 ride to Jefferson City.
However, by 2022, the Jamboree triumphantly returned to its traditional Boonville route.
The event has also cultivated a rich musical history. Notable acts such as the Ozark Mountain Daredevils, Pokey LaFarge, and Southern Culture on the Skids have graced the PedJam stages.
The indie rock band Ha Ha Tonka has performed at the event four times, even riding bicycles with their families and filming the music video for their song “Carry It Around” during the Jamboree.
What Makes the Pedaler’s Jamboree Unique?
The magic of the Pedaler’s Jamboree lies in its seamless integration of cycling and entertainment. Unlike traditional century rides or competitive gran fondos, PedJam encourages riders to take their time. The route follows the Katy Trail State Park, which holds the distinction of being the longest developed rail-trail in the United States, stretching 240 miles across Missouri.
Built on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad, the trail features a flat, crushed limestone surface flanked by scenic limestone bluffs and the winding Missouri River.
To ensure riders can fully immerse themselves in the experience, organizers provide comprehensive support. Registration includes the transport of two bags to the campsite in Boonville, allowing cyclists to ride unencumbered.
Sag support, including a shuttle van and a sag bike, is available for those who need a lift.
The 2026 theme, “Down at the Pedaler’s Jamboree,” pays tribute to the late Jerry Denehy, who rode every mile of every Jamboree and penned the lyrics to a heartfelt song about the event.
This deep sense of community is further reflected in the organizers’ decision to cap attendance at around 2,000 weekend riders to prevent overcrowding and maintain the intimate, high-quality experience that attendees have come to love.
The 2026 Experience: Route and Lineup
The 2026 Pedaler’s Jamboree kicks off with a Friday night Hoedown Pre-Party in Rocheport, featuring live music, camping, and a “White Elephant” style bingo game.
On Saturday morning, riders depart from Flat Branch Park in Columbia between 7:30 am and 10:00 am.
The route is punctuated by musical performances at key stops. The table below outlines the planned trailside entertainment for the 2026 ride:
| Location | Day | Distance from Start | Featured Entertainment |
| Columbia (Jay Dix) | Saturday | 0 miles | Adventure Hat (8:30 am) |
| McBaine | Saturday | 9.4 miles | Rambler Kane (9:30 am) |
| Rocheport | Saturday | 18.8 miles | Travis Feutz & Stardust Cowboys (11:00 am); Matthew Scott (12:30 pm) |
| Franklin | Saturday | 29.2 miles | Molly Healey String Project (2:30 pm); William Elliott Whitmore (3:45 pm) |
| Boonville (Kemper Park) | Saturday | 32.7 miles | Main Stage Festival: The Band Feel, Post Sex Nachos, Nclusion Plus Drag Show, Fireworks |
| Boonville | Sunday | 0 miles | Pancake Breakfast (7:00 am) |
| New Franklin | Sunday | 3.5 miles | Stoplight Flyers (8:30 am) |
| Rocheport | Sunday | 13.9 miles | Kris Lager Band (10:30 am) |
| McBaine | Sunday | 23.3 miles | Swampweed Canjun Band (12:00 pm) |
Upon arriving at Kemper Park in Boonville on Saturday evening, riders are treated to a full-scale music festival. Free camping is provided for all registered riders, and food vendors are on-site to refuel hungry cyclists.
The Sunday return ride features more music and culminates in after-parties back in Columbia at venues like Rose Music Hall.
Whether you are a seasoned cyclist looking for a relaxed weekend or a music enthusiast wanting to experience a festival on two wheels, the Pedaler’s Jamboree offers an unparalleled adventure. Dust off your bike, pack your tent, and get ready to pedal to the rhythm of the Katy Trail.
