During warmer months, Nebraska comes to life with a plethora of exciting festivals across the state. From music, to art, to food, and overall family fun, Nebraska’s celebrations have something to please everyone. To make it a little easier on you, we’ve selected our favorite festivals. Mark your calendar!
Arbor Day, Nebraska City, NE
Arbor Day is celebrated every year on the last Friday in April in Nebraska’s hometown of the holiday—Nebraska City. J. Sterling Morton, who founded Arbor Day in 1872, is celebrated with city-wide festivities, including a parade, live entertainment, children’s activities, and a 5K trail run.
NEBRASKAland Days, North Platte, NE
As the largest festival in western Nebraska, NEBRASKAland Days is a celebration of the state and its heritage and takes place every June. Concerts, a parade, contests, food events, a craft beer festival, art shows, and even a rodeo all happen over the 10-day celebration.
Kool-Aid Days, Hastings, NE
More than 80 years ago Edwin Perkins invented Kool-Aid in his hometown of Hastings. The drink quickly became the state’s official soft drink and is now celebrated each year with Kool-Aid Days. The festival attracts over 20,000 visitors and includes a variety of events such as games, a parade, and the world’s largest Kool-Aid stand.
Husker Harvest Days, Grand Island, NE
Taking place in mid-September, Husker Harvest Days is one of the nation’s largest working farm shows. Hundreds of exhibitors come to offer their products and services focused on Nebraska and the Western Corn Belt’s agriculture. The event covers more than 80 acres with stands, field demonstrations, crafts, artwork, and much more.
Crane Watch Festival, Kearney, NE
In late March, Kearney welcomes more than 80 percent of the world’s population of sandhill cranes as they travel from their southern winter grounds to their northern breeding grounds in Canada and Alaska. Their stop along the way in Kearney is celebrated each year with the Crane Watch Festival. Educational activities and fun events, such as the Miss Crane Watch Festival Pageant, take place across the area in Kearney, Minden, and Gibbon.
Wayne Chicken Show, Wayne, NE
The Wayne Chicken Show has been a tradition since 1981 and is a quirky, “cheep” event held annually on the second Saturday in July. Nearly 1,000 volunteers organize the festival, which includes the world’s largest chicken dance, games, fireworks, and the National Cluck-Off.
Nebraska Star Party, Valentine, NE
A massive regional star party is held in the lightly-populated area around the Merritt Reservoir. At 3,100 feet on an upland plateau, the location the perfect place for stargazing with clarity. Events include educational activities, a beach party, contests, canoeing, and more.
Key Insights at a Glance
