CALENDAR OF EVENTS NORTHWEST SANDHILLS SOUTHWEST SOUTH CENTRAL NORTHEAST SOUTHEAST METRO STATEWIDE ACTUAL THINGS TO DO! From the College World Series to Oregon Trail Days, these events are a sampling of some of Nebraska’s quirkiest and most beloved annual traditions. Always check with event sponsors before finalizing your travel plans as dates and event details can change. Cinco De Mayo Embark on a vibrant celebration along historic South 24th Street, brimming with live music, delectable food, captivating pageantry, an adorable “Que Chulo” dog contest and much more! Omaha Sidney Gold Rush Days Immerse yourself in the history of the Sidney to Deadwood Gold Rush Trail through wagon rides, quick draw competitions, craftsmen demonstrations and an array of captivating displays. Sidney Testicle Festival JUNE Falls City Hot Air Balloon Festival Witness the majestic ascent of hot air balloons and stay until dusk for the mesmerizing balloon glow. Immerse yourself in live music, delectable food and endless fun throughout the event. VISITNEBRASKA.COM/EVENTS/CALENDAR Falls City During Father’s Day weekend, a crowd of thousands comes together for a lively event featuring Rocky Mountain oysters, live music and an entertaining ball-eating contest. Ashland NEBRASKAland DAYS Cowboy culture and top country music stars await you at this North Platte festival, making it one of the biggest parties in the state. North Platte JANUARY First Day Hike Start the New Year off on the right foot by joining the outdoor adventure of First Day Hikes at Nebraska’s state parks! St. Patrick’s Day In the town of O’Neill, known as “Nebraska’s Irish Capital,” a lively Irish heritage celebration unfolds, featuring everything from green beer to captivating Irish dancers. O’Neill BRAN Statewide Polar Bear Tank Races Daring individuals plunge into winter adventure by racing down the Middle Loup River in livestock tanks, embracing extraordinary fun despite the cold. Quack Off Duck Races A live duck racing experience attracts thousands, supporting the local fire department through a unique fundraiser. Mullen Avoca BRAN, short for Bicycle Ride Across Nebraska, offers a unique annual chance to explore Nebraska’s attractions and experience warm hospitality while pedaling through its scenic landscapes. Statewide College World Series Omaha becomes a hub for baseball enthusiasts during 12 days of America’s greatest pastime, accompanied by live music and beer gardens surrounding the stadium. Omaha Lincoln Arts Festival Artists and art enthusiasts gather at this two-day event, featuring talented artists from across the country. Enjoy captivating art demonstrations, live performances and a variety of engaging activities. Lincoln JULY Fourth of July Celebration Seward, honored as “Nebraska’s Official 4th of July City,” hosts one of the nation’s finest small-town celebrations, showcasing a remarkable Independence Day experience. FEBRUARY Groundhog Day Celebration In this village, Groundhog Day is celebrated with a festive parade, crafts fair, delicious food and more. APRIL Arbor Day Celebration Whether statewide or in Nebraska City where it all began, celebrate Arbor Day with plantings, tours, shopping and engaging activities to honor the tree planter’s holiday. Seward Nebraska City Omaha Freedom Festival Embrace the Juneteenth holiday at this festival, offering educational opportunities, family activities, vibrant local artists and live music to celebrate and honor this significant occasion. Omaha Unadilla Nebraska’s Big Rodeo Witness the excitement of classic rodeo events, including Saddle Broncs, along with the thrilling action of the Wild Horse Race and the exhilarating Canadian Chuck Wagon Races. Burwell Bull Bash Main Street transforms as bulls, heifers and commercial exhibitors take over, accompanied by the Running with the Bulls 5K, wine tasting, vendor show and quilt display. Valentine Spring Game Get in the game at the annual Husker Football Spring Game, where fans rally in numbers rivaling regular season matchups, proving they’re the greatest fans in college football. Lincoln Great American Comedy Festival Norfolk’s favorite son, Johnny Carson, is honored by a gathering of the nation’s top comedic talents, paying tribute to his enduring legacy in a delightful event. Norfolk Kearney Cruise Nite Classic car enthusiasts come together at this multi-day event, indulging in Show & Shine events, thrilling drag races, the annual Cruise Nite Parade and an array of additional activities tailored for lovers of vintage automobiles. Kearney MARCH Omaha Film Festival The Omaha Film Festival showcases over 100 independent films annually, including premieres and award winners, fostering dialogue between filmmakers and audiences through screenings, conferences and workshops. MAY Sip Nebraska Indulge in a delightful celebration of Nebraska wines! Explore over 100 delicious wine tastings, accompanied by live music, shopping, delectable food and fun yard games. Star City Pride Join the celebration of Pride Month and the LGBTQ+ community at this inclusive event, featuring vibrant festival vendors and a colorful parade. Lincoln Omaha Ashland Kites & Castles Delight in the “fun in the sun” experience at Lake McConaughy’s premier event, featuring kite-flying, sandcastle-building and an array of enjoyable activities for all to relish. Ogallala 6 VisitNebraska.com
Nebraska Official State Travel Guide The Official 2025 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide: Page 6
