RVers gathered in Sedalia, Missouri, for FRVA’s summer convention and rang in the USA’s 250th birthday.
By Robbin Gould, Director of Communications
September/October 2026
It’s no secret that good times happen when RVers gather. That was the case July 1-4, 2026, when Family RV Association members parked their rolling homes at the Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia for FRVA’s 113th International Convention, “250 Years Of Red, White & Blue.”
You could say FRVA held an event within an event. The convention theme became part of the larger national celebration as the United States observed its 250th anniversary on July 4.
Attendees rose to the occasion, wearing patriotic attire and decorating their RVs and parking sites. (Executive director Doug Uhlenbrock even donned an Uncle Sam costume when hosting afternoon trivia.)
The official RV count was 420. On the family side, this number included 387 family RVs and eight Passports (folks who drove in for the day).
Folks eager for knowledge sat in on seminars that addressed myriad aspects of RV operation and maintenance, lifestyle and travel topics, FRVA info, and more. Many sessions took place in a centralized location called the Learning Zone. Attendees created mementos in make-and-take craft sessions, too.
The fairgrounds’ Agriculture Building housed over 80 commercial exhibits staffed by FRVA benefit providers and other companies. Members also shopped for FRVA logo merchandise and received assistance at the membership, area rally, and Tech Connect+ booths.
Entertainment was provided by FRVA’s Frustrated Maestros, who performed at morning coffee hour and during the Ice Cream Social. Keyboardist David Majchrzak played ragtime tunes at an evening meet-and-greet; on other nights, Felix and Fingers Dueling Pianos, Pam Setser’s folk/country/bluegrass band, and the Matt Gumm Variety Show from Branson received crowd approval.
Games and special activities kept folks busy throughout the week: These included karaoke, yoga, line dancing, card bingo, scavenger hunts, a bean bag toss tournament, and even a Towable Rodeo (pilot/copilot teams who maneuvered a golf cart and trailer). At the Cow Chip Tossing Challenge, folks of all ages did their best to hurl dried discs of cattle manure the farthest distance!
On the final day, a Fourth of July picnic in the family parking area went off without a hitch (almost). Despite an afternoon storm, corn and hot dog grilling went on as planned. Attendees tried their luck at the “Dunking for Dollars” dunk tank, where they threw balls at a target in hopes of dumping FRVA officers and staff into the water. They also enjoyed rock, country, and pop tunes from Amy Newhart and her band.
“The picnic was a great hit despite the challenging weather. We lost a few pop-up tents, but the show went on. Everyone was fed, the dunk tank stayed active, and the entertainment continued into the night, culminating with the city of Sedalia’s fireworks extravaganza,” commented Paul Mitchell, FRVA national president.
The dunk tank and other events raised funds for a local charity as part of FRVA’s Driven To Care program; these included the Magic Mile Run/Walk/Ride and a silent auction. Altogether, $2,618 was presented to Mercy Services United, which assists Sedalia residents in need of services.
An event with so many moving parts needs help from scores of volunteers. Thanks to all who helped with setup, parking, security, transportation, and other areas. You made the convention possible!
Want to do it again? Registration is open for “Hollywood On Wheels,” FRVA’s 114th International Convention & RV Expo, March 17-20, 2027, at the Georgia National Fairgrounds in Perry. Learn more at frva.com or call (800) 543-3622.