Actual THINGS TO DO! From the College World Series to Oregon Trail Days, these events are a sampling of some of Nebraska’s most-beloved annual traditions. Always check with event sponsors before finalizing your travel plans as dates and event details can change. June WILLA CATHER SPRING CONFERENCE Step into the story at this annual gathering where literature lovers, scholars and art enthusiasts come together to celebrate Willa Cather’s legacy. With prairie hikes, live performances and rich conversations, it’s a weekend that brings her world to life. TESTICLE FESTIVAL 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 Red Cloud 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 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, flavorful food and endless fun throughout the event. 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. Falls City Omaha 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 Statewide BRAN 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 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. Seward 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 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. 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 Nebraska City JUNETEENTH JOYFEST Get ready to celebrate freedom and community at this vibrant street fest filled with live music, soul food, storytelling and joyful dancing. Honoring Black heritage and resilience, it’s a powerful party with heart, history and plenty of joy. Unadilla Omaha NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL FINALS RODEO Saddle up for a thrilling ride at this showdown, where high school cowboys and cowgirls compete in electrifying events like barrel racing, bull riding and team roping. Lincoln 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 May SIP NEBRASKA Indulge in a delightful celebration of Nebraska wines! Explore over 100 delicious wine tastings, accompanied by live music, shopping, food and fun yard games. Ashland 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. Norfolk BOOMFEST Celebrate summer in a big way with Norfolk’s annual Boomfest, a vibrant festival packed with live music, tasty treats, family-friendly activities and a spectacular fireworks show to light up the night. Norfolk 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. Omaha CINCO DE MAYO Embark on a vibrant celebration along historical South 24th Street, brimming with live music, delectable food, captivating pageantry, an adorable “Que Chulo” dog contest and much more! 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. Omaha Sidney 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 NORTHWEST SANDHILLS SOUTHWEST SOUTH CENTRAL NORTHEAST SOUTHEAST METRO STATEWIDE 6 VisitNebraska.com
Nebraska Official State Travel Guide Nebraska 2026 Official State Travel Guide: Page 6
