Ten can't miss events during the fall in Nebraska

AppleJack Festival

If you’re a fan of all things apple, look no further than AppleJack Festival in September. Set in the charming small town of Nebraska City (the home of Arbor Day), this annual tradition draws up to 80,000 people over its multi-weekend fanfare. Carnivals, flea markets, fun runs, vendors and, yes, apple treats all await.

Junk Jaunt

Festival fun doesn’t have to be confined to one spot. Spread throughout central Nebraska and the Sandhills region, the Junk Jaunt is a 500-mile trail of city-wide garage, yard and bake sales, offering every type of treasure you can imagine. You’ll also be able to experience each community’s unique culture and attractions. Be sure to bring your wallet and plenty of open trunk space.

Visit the website to plan your journey.

Junkstock

One of the country’s most unique vintage festivals, Junkstock brings countless junk and antique, food and craft vendors to Waterloo’s historic Sycamore Farms for a celebration that keeps the good vibes rolling every year. There’s live music and new themes every year, making it a must-visit for junkers and visitors alike. Be sure to come back for the spring edition!

Monument Marathon

Scenic, rugged western Nebraska was home to the Oregon Trail, and this late-September race lets you follow in its footsteps. Scottsbluff and Gering are surrounded by some of the state’s best natural sites, including the towering Scotts Bluff National Monument, making it a breathtaking backdrop for the half and full marathon and 5K races.

Bustoberfest

When you combine Nebraska’s pristine autumn setting with vintage buses, you get Bustoberfest. This multi-day event brings a gathering of VW buses to Indian Cave State Park in southeast Nebraska, which has some of the state’s best fall foliage. Beyond the dreamy aesthetic, you’ll find home-cooked music around the campfire, trick-or-treating and great food.

Heritage Days

If you find yourself in southwest Nebraska, be sure to head to McCook’s Heritage Days celebration. Parades, food trucks, local vendors and live entertainment, along with Oktoberfest flair, make this one you won’t want to miss.

HallowFest

Ponca State Park, a northeast Nebraska gem, plays host to a Halloween celebration the whole family will enjoy. Haunted hayrack rides, pumpkin roll contests and spooky decorations are all part of the fun.

Husker Football Games

Nothing says tradition like fall and college football, and the University of Nebraska is as drenched in it as anywhere. The storied program takes to a sold-out Memorial Stadium each fall, and gameday offers plenty of opportunities to celebrate around Lincoln. Get your tickets here.

Oktoberfest

Nebraska’s German heritage shows up in many of its Oktoberfest celebrations, and Sidney has one that needs to be on your list. Head to the panhandle for lederhosen, bratwursts and schnitzels and, of course, beer. There is live music and plenty of festivity for everyone.

Farmer’s Markets

Nebraska’s communities, both large and small, break out the local goods on these treasured weekends. Whether you are after local produce or homemade goodies, chances are you’ll find something unique. This list is a good place to start!