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Opening Ceremony

Opening Ceremony is an inspirational, community-rallying party to kick off Ride Weekend, featuring entertainment, impactful storytelling, and food and drinks. Explore event details including schedule, tickets, parking, and more below.

Event Handbook

Event Handbook

Explore the Event Handbook for Opening Ceremony map, Attendee to-do list, Rider credentials info, and more!
View Handbook
Venue Map

Venue Map

Explore the Opening Ceremony venue map for locations and details.
View Map

Opening Ceremony Details

McFerson Commons and North Bank Park (218 West St, Columbus, OH 43215)

11:30am-8:00pm

Rider Check-in and Gift Distribution, First Aid Services, Bike Storage and Maintenance, Bag Drop-off, and Merch Sales

4:00pm

Gates Open
4:00-8:00pm 

Dinner Buffet, Partner Expo, Beverages

6:30-7:00pm
Stage Program with Speakers
7:00-8:00pm
Headliner Performance by Andrew McMahon
All Riders should come to McFerson Commons to check-in and pick up their Rider Credential Packet.
  • On Friday morning, July 31, you will receive a text message with important information you need to check in. Please have this text and your photo ID ready at the Rider Check-In tent.
  • If you do not receive a text message, don’t worry! Go to the Check-In tent when you arrive and a Volunteer will help you.
  • High Rollers should check in at the High Roller tent near the entrance to McFerson Commons.
  • If you are unable to check in and receive your Rider credentials on Friday evening, you may pick up your credentials on Sunday morning at New Albany Schools. Please be sure to arrive on site by 8:00am to allow ample time to pick up your credentials.
  • If utilizing Ride day check in, please email pelotonia@pelotonia.org to coordinate pick up of your Rider gift at Pelotonia HQ following Ride Weekend.
  • Please note: 27-Mile Riders can NOT drop their bike at the McFerson Commons bike corral on Friday, as bikes will not be transported to the New Albany start. All Riders will need to bring their bike with them to New Albany on Sunday morning.
The following participants may attend the Opening Ceremony (includes stage program + Andrew McMahon concert):
  • 2026 Ride Weekend Riders (plus one guest)
  • 2026 Gravel Day Gravel Riders, Mountain Bikers, & Trail Run/Hike Participants (plus one guest)
  • Volunteers/Challengers who raise $1,250+ by July 30 (plus one guest)
  • High Rollers who commit to raise at least $5,000 (plus three guests)
For entrance into Opening Ceremony:
  • Ride Weekend Riders will receive wristbands in Rider credential packet.
  • Gravel Day participants and non-Rider High Rollers will receive wristbands by mail.
  • Eligible Volunteers/Challengers will be added to the entry list for easy admittance and will receive an email confirmation.
Please be patient and plan to allow extra time for traffic and parking!
Free parking for all participants will be provided in a variety of Arena District garages. A parking pass with a QR code will be available for download closer to the event. If you choose to park in a different lot or garage, you are responsible for all necessary payment and adhering to all restrictions.
Please be aware that Spring Street and Long Street between Hocking Street and Marconi Boulevard will be closed, with no vehicular access available.
Please note: Most parking garage entrances do not have the vertical clearance to accommodate bicycles mounted on roof racks, so please plan accordingly.

Opening Ceremony News

Andrew McMahon to Headline Opening Ceremony 2026

Andrew McMahon, the celebrated singer-songwriter known as the frontman of Something Corporate, Jack’s Mannequin, and Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, will headline Opening Ceremony 2026. Also a cancer Survivor, McMahon’s story is deeply connected to Pelotonia’s mission. Get ready for a powerful performance to set the tone for an unforgettable Ride Weekend!