Opening Ceremony
Friday, August 1, 2025
Opening Ceremony is an inspirational, community-rallying party of 15,000 guests in downtown Columbus to set the tone for Ride Weekend. This can't-miss celebration features live musical entertainment, impactful storytelling, delicious food, and brand new Pelotonia merch.
Opening Ceremony 2025 will take place on Friday, August 1, on the grounds of McFerson Commons and North Bank Park in the Arena District of downtown Columbus.
O.A.R. to Headline Opening Ceremony 2025
- Platinum-certified rock band O.A.R. – whose members are alumni of The Ohio State University – will headline Opening Ceremony on Friday, August 1 in downtown Columbus!
- Known for songs like “Shattered (Turn The Car Around)” and “That Was A Crazy Game of Poker,” O.A.R. is a multi-platinum-selling band who has repeatedly sold out legendary venues like Madison Square Garden.
- For more than 25 years, O.A.R. fans around the world have enjoyed their free-flowing sound and exhilarating live shows. Pelotonia is excited to bring their joyful energy to the Opening Ceremony stage for an unforgettable rock performance!
Learn moreO.A.R. to Headline Opening Ceremony 2025
Entry gates will open at 4:00 p.m., and the inspirational program will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the Pelotonia stage. O.A.R. is set to start the headliner music performance at 7:00 p.m.
Opening Ceremony is open to Pelotonia 2025 Ride Weekend Riders, Gravel Day Riders and Trail Run/Hike participants, plus Volunteers or Challengers who have raised a minimum of $1,250 by July 31.
2281 Kenny Road, Suite 450, Columbus, Ohio 43210 | 614.221.6100
© 2025 Pelotonia. All rights reserved.
Major Funding Partners
