The Legacy

For more than three decades, this annual Fall tradition has continued courtesy of your hosts, Paul and Terri Erickson, along with the support of their longstanding friends, the late Bob Mitchell and his wife, Doris, and the late Clancy Leverenz and his wife, Marilyn.  Under their leadership, this American original has grown and broadened its appeal beyond the banjo, expanding from a single show Jamboree at the American Legion Hall on 6th and Market Streets. to a relaxing three-day weekend festival of music, friendship, and fun.  The constants that remain perennial favorites of the many generations of fans and followers are the traditional concerts, workshops, and play-outs at various venues around LaCrosse, and cruising down “Ol’ Man River” with plenty of jamming on an old-fashioned, paddle wheel riverboat.

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Unlike many other banjo and fretted music festivals that have evolved into stage show extravaganzas spotlighting the top-headliners, the Banjo Jamboree has never abandoned its simple, homespun roots and is very much a family reunion and homecoming for performers and enthusiast alike.  While the caliber of artistry and showmanship remains consistently high, this event continues to encourage amateurs and budding, up-and-coming professionals (like the young tenor banjo phenomenon, Cody Clausen) to take the stage by themselves for the first time…or, even perform side-by-side with the seasoned pros, who always welcome them as just another one of the family.  If you have an instrument in-hand, don’t be surprised if you are asked to come up and make a cameo appearance on stage or play with the “River Rats” pick-up band, just like everyone else who has ever been to La Crosse in the last fifty plus years and counting. 

Come join us for the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of the Midwest Banjo Jamboree and BanjoFest USA.  Enjoy all of the great live music that we've become famous for and take in the beautiful Fall colors and festivities available only in picturesque La Crosse from September 6-8 2024.