Events at the 2026 Bantam Jeep Festival include the following:

Date: 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. time slots Friday, June 12

Location: Bantam Quarry at Kildoo — 989 Kildoo Road, Portersville, PA 16051

Maximum Jeep participants: 50

Cost: $60 (Includes exclusive Babes T-shirt with pre-registration)

Duration: Approx. 2.5 hours

Ready to level up your Jeep confidence? Babes of Bantam is where lady Jeepers take the wheel — literally — and learn the skills to conquer the trails with style.

This empowering, beginner-focused adventure kicks off with our Introduction to 4-wheeling session, followed by a guided trail ride and a custom-built obstacle course designed just for you. It’s hands-on, supportive, fun and filled with the kind of women who make the Bantam Jeep community so special.

Whether this is your first time off-road or you’re shaking off the rust, you’ll roll out with more confidence, more skills and a whole new crew of Jeep-loving friends.

Date: 9 a.m. Thursday, June 11

Location: Bantam Quarry at Kildoo — 989 Kildoo Road, Portersville, PA 16051

Maximum Jeep participants: 25

Cost: $60 (Includes exclusive Babes T-shirt with pre-registration)

Duration: Approx. 2.5 hours

Ready to push past the basics? Babes II is back for women who’ve already conquered Babes of Bantam and are hungry for the next stamp on their trail passport.

This next-level ride skips the classroom and goes straight to the action. Expect sharper line choice, steady climbs and descents, tighter turns, deeper ruts and bigger obstacles — all tackled at a quicker pace with more seat time on the trail. Expert coaches ride right alongside you, offering guidance when you need it and encouragement when it’s time to send it.

It’s challenging, confidence-building and fueled by that all-American, can-do energy that defines the Bantam Jeep community. You’ll roll out trail-tested, empowered and ready for whatever Bantam throws your way next.

Date: 1 p.m. Thursday, June 11

Location: Bantam Quarry at Kildoo — 989 Kildoo Road, Portersville, PA 16051

Maximum Jeep participants: 50

Cost: $60 (Includes Boot Camp T-shirt with pre-registration)

Duration: Approx. 2.5 hours

New to off-roading? Step into your Jeep and celebrate America 250 the Bantam way — by chasing freedom on four wheels. Bantam Boot Camp is a beginner-friendly, hands-on intro class where you’ll learn the essential trail skills every modern-day pioneer needs, from off-road terminology and trail etiquette to the hand signals that keep your crew rolling smooth. Then you’ll tackle a few simple obstacles in your own Jeep to build confidence. Open to all genders and a perfect prep for the on-site trails or Bantam Quarry at Kildoo.

Dates:

Friday, June 12: Final stamp and hand dealt between 1 p.m. — 4 p.m.

Saturday, June 13: Final stamp and hand dealt between 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.

Sunday, June 14: Final stamp and hand dealt between 10 a.m. — 1:30 p.m.

Prizes awarded 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June 14

(Cards must be returned by 1:30 p.m. to be eligible)

Cost: $30

Hit the road and explore the region with the Bantam Poker Run, a fan-favorite adventure that takes you on a series of fun, self-guided stops throughout the area. Participants receive a poker run card in their registration packet and visit each designated stop during the posted hours on Friday and Saturday.

At every stop, your card gets validated. Once you’ve collected all your validations, head to the Poker Run booth inside the festival grounds where our dealers will deal your official poker hand and record your score.

Prizes are awarded for both the best and worst hands — so everyone has a shot at winning.

Dates: 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 12

Sessions at 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, June 13

10:30 a.m. Sunday, June 14

Location: Bantam Quarry at Kildoo — 989 Kildoo Road, Portersville, PA 16051

Cost: $50

Duration: 3 hours

Get ready, Jeepers — 2026 is bringing the heat to the Bantam Quarry at Kildoo.

These off-site trail sessions offer a perfect mix of challenge, views and adrenaline, with three-hour runs featuring stock (green), modified (blue) and extreme (black) options. Whether you’re easing into off-roading or hunting down the gnarlier lines, Kildoo has exactly what your Jeep came for.

You’ll get a ride that feels more curated, more immersive and far less crowded than the on-site trails. 2026 is your chance to experience the quarry in a whole new way — and if you haven’t been out there in a while, trust us, you’re going to want to see what’s changed.

We’ve been listening — and our volunteers have been hard at work. Based on your feedback, we’ve made exciting upgrades to the Green, Blue and Black trails at Bantam Quarry at Kildoo. From smoother flow and improved lines to refreshed obstacles and technical enhancements, these updates are all about creating a better experience for every skill level.

Whether you’re just getting started or ready to test your limits, the quarry trails are shaping up to deliver more fun, more challenge and more confidence behind the wheel.

Date: Saturday, June 13

Gates Open at 10 a.m.

Judging between 11-1 p.m.

Winners Announced at 2 p.m.

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 400

Cost: $15 (includes preferred parking in the Show n Shine — previously the Best of Bantam lot area on Saturday only)

The Bantam Show ’n Shine makes a return for 2026 — and it’s bigger, louder and more patriotic than ever. Polish up your pride and joy and roll into the Bantam Show ’n Shine, a crowd-judged Jeep showdown where the fans decide who takes home the bragging rights. Park your rig, pop the hood and let fellow Jeepers cast their votes — from clean classics and trail-tough builds to bold customs that stop people in their tracks.

This is a laid-back, all-American celebration of style, creativity and 15 years of Bantam Jeep passion. No pressure, no panels — just Jeeps, Jeepers and a whole lot of love for the brand. Come show it off, cheer on your favorites and see if your Jeep earns the biggest applause of the weekend.

Date: between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, June 13

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 52

Cost: $45 (Includes one shirt, Does not include a wristband for festival admission)

Ride-on Jeeps aren’t just for children — they’re for Bantam fans who love a little chaos, comedy and competition. This Saturday evening activity at Cooper’s Lake Campground always delivers big laughs as racers take on a downhill slalom-style course in their souped-up ride-on Jeeps.

Participants who preregister and meet all rules and requirements will compete in multiple heats, advancing until the final race determines our 2026 champions. The entire event is free for spectators to enjoy.

Date: Saturday, June 13

Gates open at 8:30 a.m.

Judging between 10-12 a.m.

Winners Announced at 2:30 p.m.

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 400

Cost: $30 (includes preferred parking in the Best of Bantam area on Saturday only)

New for 2026, Best of Bantam will feature classic Jeeps only. This curated showcase will take place near the Jeep History Exhibit, creating a true walk-through of Jeep history. More specific location details will be announced closer to the event — stay tuned.

Have a newer Jeep you’re proud to show off? We’ve got you covered. The Bantam Show ’n Shine is making its comeback in 2026 and will be held in the former Best of Bantam field, giving modern builds their own dedicated spotlight once again.

Is your Jeep one of the Best of Bantam? If so, we hope to see you show it off in 2026!

Date: 7:30 a.m. Sunday, June 14

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 100

Cost: $10 (Does not include a wristband for festival admission)

As the festival winds down, join us Sunday morning before the gates open for a Jeep blessing — a peaceful moment to pause, give thanks and send everyone off for the road ahead.

The gathering typically includes worship music and a brief message, creating a meaningful space for reflection and fellowship as we close out the weekend together. All proceeds and freewill offerings will benefit the Christian Jeep Association, helping carry the spirit of service beyond the festival.

Participants will receive a small souvenir to remember the experience and complimentary coffee will be available as we gather one last time. Please bring your own chair if you would like to sit next to your Jeep.

Date: 6-10 p.m. Friday, June 12

Staging Locations:

North: Butler Flea Market, 1640 N. Main St. Ext., Butler, PA 16001

South: American Legion Post 778, 150 Legion Memorial Lane, Butler, PA 16001

Maximum Jeep participants: 1,000

Cost: $30-75 (Includes dash plaque, but does not include a wristband for festival admission)

Join us for the ultimate Jeep takeover in downtown Butler. Streets will be closed, DJs will be playing, and an estimated 15,000 Jeep enthusiasts will pack the sidewalks as Jeeps fill Main Street and beyond. Bring your Jeep, soak in the energy and experience one of the most iconic nights of the Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival.

Local businesses and organizations will be buzzing with special activities, music and Invasion-night fun throughout downtown. All participants must be registered to take part. Advance registered participants will receive a dash plaque. Driver admission to Cooper’s Lake is not included for participants who only select this activity.

Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, June 12

9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, June 13

9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sunday, June 14

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 1,800 (for playground and on-site trails combined)

Cost: $75 for access all three days (Includes admission to on-site trails)

If getting dirty is your idea of a good time, the Bantam Jeep Playground is calling. This is your chance to put your Jeep to the test in a purpose-built playground designed for smiles, mud and unforgettable moments behind the wheel.

Climb dirt piles, crawl over rocks, conquer tires and concrete obstacles, thread your way around poles, cross bridges and jersey barriers — and yes, get gloriously muddy along the way. The Playground is built for stock and modified Jeeps alike, so whether you’re new to off-roading or ready to show off your build, there’s fun waiting for you.

Dates: Sessions at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Friday, June 12

Sessions at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday, June 13

Sessions at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday

Location: Keystone Safari, 2284 Mercer Butler Pike, Grove City, PA 16127

Maximum Jeep participants: 50 Jeeps per session

Cost: $50 per Jeep (Festival wristbands are not required and are not included)

Duration: Approximately 90 minutes, plus travel time to and from Cooper’s Lake Campground

Get ready for one of Bantam’s unique traditions — the Jeep Safari. This off-site experience takes you on a memorable drive to nearby Keystone Safari, where your Jeep becomes part of the adventure.

You’ll caravan through the drive-thru safari in small groups, coming face-to-face with up to 100 animals from more than 25 species. Keystone Safari has created a special Bantam package just for our participants, which includes admission for up to five passengers and two food pails to feed the animals. It’s equal parts fun, unforgettable and perfect for Jeepers of all ages.

Whether this is your first Safari or a Bantam tradition you never miss, it’s a relaxed, family-friendly break from the trails — and a chance to experience something truly different during your festival weekend.

Dates: Sessions 10 a.m.-noon, 12-2 p.m. and 2- 4 p.m. Saturday, June 13

Sessions- 9:30-11:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, June 14

Plaques awarded at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June 14

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 120 Jeeps total

Cost: $35 per Jeep (includes one dash plaque)

Back by popular demand, the Jeep Team Challenge is all about teamwork, communication and a whole lot of fun. A driver and passenger will work together to navigate a series of creative, slow-speed obstacles on a specially designed course — no speed, no pressure, just skill, strategy and laughs along the way.

This challenge isn’t about horsepower or extreme builds. It’s about trust, problem-solving and how well you and your teammate work together. Whether you’re a seasoned team or teaming up for the first time, it’s a crowd favorite for a reason.

Top honors will be awarded to the five highest-scoring teams and every participant takes home a commemorative dash plaque to remember the challenge.

Date: 8-11 p.m. Saturday, June 13

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 500 Jeeps

Cost: $35 per Jeep (includes one dash plaque. Festival admission wristband is not included. Spectators do not need to register.)

Light up the night at Bantam’s star-spangled glow-up showdown. As the sun sets on Saturday, the general parking area transforms into a full-on Jeep light gallery — rigs rolling in sparkling, pulsing and blazing with creativity.

Festival vendors (not light companies — gotta keep it fair) will judge this after dark favorite, making it one of the most electric events of the weekend. Whether your Jeep is decked out in red, white and blue or you’re just getting started with your lighting setup, there’s a category for you.

Choose your category during registration and let your Jeep glow.

Not competing? No problem — and no registration needed. Come hang anyway.

A live DJ will keep the energy high while Butler County breweries and wineries pour craft beer, wine and more by the glass. Food trucks will be on site to keep you fueled all night long. Whether you’re showing off your lights or soaking it all in, the vibe is unbeatable.

This is one of the brightest, loudest and most unforgettable nights of the festival and the perfect way to celebrate 15 years of Bantam under the stars.

Dates: Friday, June 12, Saturday, June 13, Sunday, June 14

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 1,000 Jeeps

Cost: $30 per Jeep

Fire up your Jeep and hit the roads where it all began. The Mystery Road Rally is your chance to explore the birthplace of the Jeep, one clue at a time — and in 2026, it feels extra special.

To celebrate 15 years of the Bantam Jeep Festival and the lead-up to America’s 250th anniversary, we’re keeping to our roots again with a classic, old-school scavenger hunt. No apps. No screens.

Each registered Jeep will receive a Mystery Road Rally packet featuring a self-guided driving route that winds through scenic local roads. Along the way, you’ll keep your eyes peeled for landmarks, hidden details and pieces of local flavor as you fill in the blanks and solve the rally clues. It’s relaxed, family-friendly and built for all ages — no off-roading required.

This is about slowing down, soaking it in and celebrating the roads, the community and the innovation that started it all right here.

Date: 9:10 p.m. start Thursday, June 11

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 210 Jeeps

Cost: $60 per Jeep (includes one official Night Ops T-shirt)

When the sun goes down in the birthplace of the Jeep, the real mission begins.

Bantam Night Ops is back for 2026 — an after-dark off-road experience that puts your skills, your nerves and your lights to the test. Set against the backdrop of 15 years of the Bantam Jeep Festival and the lead-up to America’s 250th anniversary, this nighttime mission is equal parts adrenaline, atmosphere and pure Bantam tradition.

This is not your average trail ride. It’s darker. It’s quieter. And it’s unforgettable.

Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, June 12

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, June 13

9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, June 14

Trails close one hour before the festival closes. The times listed above reflect the last rides out each day.

Location: Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 1,800 total (On-site trails and Jeep Playground combined)

Cost: $75 for all three days (Includes full access to the Jeep Playground)

The on-site trails at Cooper’s Lake are the heart of the Bantam Jeep Festival — and in 2026, they’re ready to deliver the off-road experience Jeepers come back for year after year.

Set in the birthplace of the Jeep, these trails offer a perfect mix of accessibility and challenge, making them ideal for first-time off-roaders and experienced Jeepers alike. As we celebrate 15 years of the Bantam Jeep Festival and look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary, there’s no better place to put your Jeep to the test.

Date: Departures at 9:30 a.m., 10:10 a.m., 10:50 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Friday, June 12

Location: Tour starts at Coopers Lake Campground — 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Maximum Jeep participants: 125 Jeeps

Cost: $30 per Jeep

Duration: Approximately 2.5—3 hours

Take a slower turn through the birthplace of the Jeep with the State Park Scenic Tour — a guided, on-road experience that blends history, nature and local stories into one relaxing drive.

Perfect for stock and beginner Jeepers — and anyone looking for a break from the dirt — this tour showcases some of the region’s most interesting and scenic locations. You’ll travel as a group to three unique stops in nearby state parks, each offering a deeper look at the land, the history and the people who helped shape it.