Southwest

NEBRASKAland Days – North Platte

What better festival to attend than Nebraska’s official state celebration? Held every summer, there’s a little bit of everything at this event.

Wild West showman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody had his Scout’s Rest Ranch in North Platte, and his namesake, the Buffalo Bill Rodeo, is a can’t miss experience. Other highlights include 
a parade around the city and the Summer Jam Concert Series that has featured artists from Jason Aldean to Jelly Roll.

Oh, and there’s more food and fun than you could ever ask for, too.

South Central

Nebraska State Fair – Grand Island

A late-summer tradition celebrating Nebraska’s agricultural heritage and culture, the Nebraska State Fair offers livestock competitions, petting zoos, food vendors, live music, rides and plentiful vendor booths.

You’re also able to take home a piece of the state, with diverse exhibitors selling everything from handmade crafts to home décor and clothing. Stock up on deep-fried favorites like corn dogs and funnel cakes, plus just about fried-anything-else you could imagine.

Northeast

Wayne Chicken Show - Wayne

While some of Nebraska’s big gatherings are traditional and a straightforward good time, others are a little more, well, unique…

With its motto, “Preserving Wayne’s past one pluck at a time,” The Wayne Chicken Show has been a staple since 1980 and takes place the second weekend of July. You’ll find egg-cellent events like the wing eating contest, egg drop contest, and the National Cluck-Off. There’s also a parade, car show, live music and food trucks.

Northwest

Old West Balloon Fest – Mitchell

A must-attend event in the panhandle is one that takes place in August. Gaze at the fleet of unique hot air balloons filling the sky each morning and evening, and take advantage of the various food and merchandise vendors, kids activities and other entertainment during the day.

The setup of this festival is one of its strong points. Admission is charged by the carload, so you can load up your family and friends to save big. You’re also just a step away from Scottsbluff and Gering all of the scenic wonder of western Nebraska.

Sandhills

Nebraska Star Party - Valentine

Night owls, this one is for you. Set in Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area, an International Dark Sky Place, the Star Party is your chance to see the heavens in a way you just can’t from an urban area. This gathering of astronomy enthusiasts also includes educational and recreational activities, and the backdrop of the Sandhills, one of Nebraska’s truly unique environments, offer no shortage of opportunities for exploration.

Metro

College World Series - Omaha

College baseball’s biggest celebration has lived in Omaha since 1950. Charles Schwab Field hosts this convergence of colors, pageantry and excitement. Downtown Omaha becomes a bustling hub, and the June atmosphere is just as much of a treat as the on-field action.

Southeast

Seward 4th of July Celebration - Seward

Nebraska’s Fourth of July City has celebrated the United States’ birthday since 1868. This city of less than 8,000 residents draws as many as 40,000 attendees for this patriotic party that includes a grand parade, car show, live entertainment, bubblegum blowing contest and, yes, fireworks. It runs multiple days, too, so if you can’t make it on the holiday, you can still experience all of the fun!