Nebraska 2025 Calendar - List of Festivals: Date, Location, Significance, and Activities

Top 20 Weirdest Holidays and Festivals in the World 2025

Discover Nebraska Through Its Festivals in 2025

Nebraska, often referred to as the "Cornhusker State," is a land of expansive prairies, rich traditions, and vibrant communities. Its festivals reflect the state’s agricultural heritage, Native American culture, and love for music and the arts. Whether you’re exploring historic reenactments, enjoying rodeos, or savoring farm-to-table feasts, Nebraska’s 2025 festival calendar offers unforgettable experiences for everyone.

Nebraska’s festivals capture the heart of the Midwest, blending cultural celebrations, family-friendly events, and artistic showcases. From the lively parades of Omaha to the serene beauty of Sandhills storytelling gatherings, Nebraska promises a year packed with events that celebrate its unique identity. Spring blooms with arts and agricultural fairs, summer bursts with music festivals, and fall harvest celebrations bring communities together.

Learn more: Full List of Festivals in the US for 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street and More

List of Festivals in Nebraska 2025: Date, Location, Meaning, Celebrations and More

A Festival Map in Nebraska 2025

January

Lincoln Winter Festival

• Date: January 20–22, 2025
• Location: Lincoln, NE
• Significance: A family-friendly winter celebration in the state’s capital city.
• Activities:
  • Ice carving demonstrations and snow sculpture contests.
  • Hot cocoa stands and winter craft markets.
  • Live performances by local musicians and theater groups.
• Tickets: Free admission; some workshops require registration.
• Transportation: Public parking available near the festival grounds; rideshare options encouraged.

February

Chocolate Lovers Festival

• Date: February 10, 2025
• Location: Ashland, NE
• Significance: A sweet celebration perfect for Valentine’s Day enthusiasts.
• Activities:
  • Chocolate tastings featuring local chocolatiers and bakeries.
  • Dessert-making workshops and live cooking demonstrations.
  • Vendors selling artisanal confections and gifts.
• Tickets: Tickets available online and at the venue.
• Transportation: Free parking available near the event site.

March

Nebraska Science Festival

• Date: March 15–17, 2025
• Location: Omaha, NE
• Significance: A dynamic festival promoting STEM education and exploration.
• Activities:
  • Interactive science exhibits and hands-on workshops.
  • Presentations by scientists and innovators.
  • Family-friendly activities such as robotics demonstrations and space exploration exhibits.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit and downtown parking available.

April

Spring Into the Arts Festival

• Date: April 13–14, 2025
• Location: Grand Island, NE
• Significance: A festival celebrating the arts and the arrival of spring.
• Activities:
  • Art exhibits showcasing works by regional and national artists.
  • Live music and theatrical performances.
  • Craft workshops and food vendors offering seasonal treats.
• Tickets: Free general admission; some workshops require tickets.
• Transportation: Parking available at the event site; carpooling encouraged.

May

Crane Watch Festival

• Date: May 3–5, 2025
• Location: Kearney, NE
• Significance: A celebration of the annual migration of Sandhill Cranes through the Platte River Valley.
• Activities:
  • Guided birdwatching tours and photography workshops.
  • Educational talks by ornithologists and conservationists.
  • Nature walks and craft vendors.
• Tickets: Tickets available online; early booking recommended for tours.
• Transportation: Parking available near observation sites; shuttle services offered.

June

College World Series Fan Fest

• Date: June 14–22, 2025
• Location: Omaha, NE
• Significance: A vibrant celebration of college baseball’s biggest event.
• Activities:
  • Live music, food trucks, and interactive games for fans.
  • Meet-and-greet sessions with players and mascots.
  • Watch parties and themed activities for kids.
• Tickets: Free admission to Fan Fest; game tickets sold separately.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown; public transit encouraged.

July

Nebraska Folk & Roots Festival

• Date: July 12–14, 2025
• Location: Lincoln, NE
• Significance: A celebration of folk and roots music, featuring both local and national artists.
• Activities:
  • Live performances on multiple stages, highlighting folk, bluegrass, and Americana music.
  • Artisan markets showcasing handmade crafts and regional goods.
  • Food trucks offering local and international cuisine.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online; VIP packages include backstage access.
• Transportation: Parking available at the festival site; public transit encouraged.

Buffalo County Fair

• Date: July 21–27, 2025
• Location: Kearney, NE
• Significance: A family-friendly county fair celebrating agriculture, community, and entertainment.
• Activities:
  • Carnival rides, livestock shows, and craft exhibits.
  • Live concerts featuring country and rock artists.
  • Food stalls serving fair classics like funnel cakes and corn dogs.
• Tickets: Tickets available online and at the gate; discounted family passes offered.
• Transportation: Parking available near the fairgrounds; rideshare services encouraged.

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August

Omaha Fashion Week

• Date: August 18–23, 2025
• Location: Omaha, NE
• Significance: The Midwest’s premier fashion event, showcasing emerging and established designers.
• Activities:
  • Runway shows featuring innovative designs.
  • Pop-up shops and networking events for fashion enthusiasts.
  • Workshops and panel discussions with industry experts.
• Tickets: Tickets available online; VIP passes include front-row seating.
• Transportation: Downtown parking available; public transit and rideshare recommended.

Nebraska Star Party

• Date: August 25–30, 2025
• Location: Valentine, NE
• Significance: A unique stargazing event in one of the darkest sky regions in the U.S.
• Activities:
  • Guided stargazing sessions with astronomers.
  • Workshops on astrophotography and telescope use.
  • Daytime activities, including hiking and kayaking in the Sandhills.
• Tickets: Registration available online; camping packages offered.
• Transportation: Parking available at the event site; carpooling encouraged.

September

Nebraska State Fair

• Date: August 30–September 9, 2025
• Location: Grand Island, NE
• Significance: Nebraska’s largest event, celebrating the state’s agricultural and cultural heritage.
• Activities:
  • Livestock competitions, craft exhibits, and carnival rides.
  • Food vendors serving everything from fried treats to farm-to-table delicacies.
  • Live concerts and daily parades.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available online; family and group discounts offered.
• Transportation: Parking available at the fairgrounds; shuttle services provided.

October

Pumpkin Festival

• Date: October 12–14, 2025
• Location: Omaha, NE
• Significance: A festive celebration of the fall harvest and Halloween traditions.
• Activities:
  • Pumpkin picking, carving contests, and corn mazes.
  • Hayrides, live music, and seasonal food stalls.
  • Family-friendly activities, including costume contests and trick-or-treating.
• Tickets: General admission tickets available at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available near the venue; public transit encouraged.

November

Veterans Day Parade

• Date: November 11, 2025
• Location: Norfolk, NE
• Significance: A heartfelt tribute to veterans and active-duty military personnel.
• Activities:
  • A grand parade featuring marching bands, floats, and military units.
  • Ceremonies and speeches honoring veterans.
  • Food vendors and live music.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Downtown parking available; public transit recommended.

December

Holiday Lights Festival

• Date: December 1–31, 2025
• Location: Omaha, NE
• Significance: A magical celebration of the holiday season, lighting up downtown Omaha.
• Activities:
  • Stunning light displays and festive decorations throughout the city.
  • Holiday markets featuring seasonal crafts and treats.
  • Ice skating, caroling, and visits with Santa Claus.
• Tickets: Free general admission; some activities require tickets.
• Transportation: Public parking available downtown; rideshare options encouraged.

FAQs About Nebraska Festivals 2025

1. What are Nebraska’s must-visit festivals in 2025?

• The Crane Watch Festival, Nebraska Science Festival, and College World Series Fan Fest are iconic events not to miss.

2. Are Nebraska festivals family-friendly?

• Yes, events like the Lincoln Winter Festival and Spring Into the Arts Festival cater to all ages.

3. What’s the best time to visit Nebraska for festivals?

• Spring and summer are the best seasons, with events celebrating nature, sports, and the arts.

4. Are there free festivals in Nebraska?

• Many festivals, such as the Nebraska Science Festival and the College World Series Fan Fest, offer free admission.

5. How can I experience Nebraska’s natural beauty at festivals?

• Attend events like the Crane Watch Festival or the Spring Into the Arts Festival to connect with Nebraska’s stunning landscapes.

Conclusion

Nebraska’s 2025 festivals offer a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community celebration. From the serene migrations of Sandhill Cranes to the lively music of Omaha’s downtown streets, each event captures the essence of the Cornhusker State. Plan your visit and create unforgettable memories at Nebraska’s most exciting festivals!

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