16 minute read
Traveler
Nebraska Traveler
TAKING TO THE ROAD FOR FOOD, FUN AND FESTIVITIES
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by BECKY McCARVILLE
COMMUNITY
WHERE TO EAT
WILLOW TREE FESTIVAL
SEPT. 10-11 • GORDON
The sun rises and sets on a hardy willow tree rooted in the banks of Antelope Creek near Sheridan County Fairgrounds. From Nebraska’s early roots, this lone willow tree provided a gathering place for Indigenous Americans, fur traders, cowboys and settlers. Today, the land is private property, but the tree’s symbolism in Gordon as a gathering place has endured.
Every year people gather under Winship Park’s leafy shade to celebrate community at the Willow Tree Festival. The event features artists, local and regional performers, professional musicians, Native American storytellers and fancy dancers, food trucks and children’s activities.
Like the stalwart willow tree, the festival has endured because of the hard work of its 20 volunteer board members, robust community engagement and financial backing from businesses and residents, and grants from the Nebraska Arts Council, Nebraska Cultural Endowments and Humanities Nebraska.
Not much has changed from its origin. The late Dave Sweley, a minister at the Presbyterian church and experienced festival planner, founded the festival in 1983. Now In its 38th year (canceled in 2020), this year’s festivities are Sept. 10-11.
Board member Jean Hess returned to her hometown to attend her first Willow Tree Festival in 1986. At the time, she lived on the West Coast and dabbled with art. She didn’t know what to expect from her hometown, but she was so amazed that she decided to be part of it.
Twenty-five years later, Hess still helps the well-oiled organization spread the word to surrounding Panhandle towns and bring in vendors.
Festival magic is in the air from sunup to sundown. Visitors grab fun festival foods from the many food trucks and join strangers at picnic tables for small talk and common ground. Art lovers meander through 60-plus arts and craft booths representing a five-state area. The city blocks off the entire park and some side streets for a car-free zone. Three stages feature performances: the gazebo stage; the children’s stage; and the indoor stage. Kids romp through the children’s space with supervised activities.
Mornings begin with biscuits and gravy at the Tri-state Old Time Cowboys’ Museum. Ice cream and pie sweeten the afternoons. Visitors glimpse the past at Scamahorn Museum. When the festivities close, the branches of a nearby willow seem to say, “come back again soon.” THE TWISTED TURTLE PUB Hometown hospitality and wood-fired pizza warm hearts and bellies. Cute decor, funky green chairs and exposed brick walls keep it feeling cozy. 129 Main St., Rushville (308) 327-2233
WHERE TO STAY
JEFCO INN After a full day enjoying golf or rodeo in the rugged beauty of Sheridan County, guests at Jefco Inn enjoy quiet, comfortable rooms. 308 S. Cornell, Gordon (308) 282-2935
WHERE TO PLAY
MODISETT BALL PARK The Rushville community restored this historic park and added modern amenities and facilities. The Sheridan County Regulators American Legion team takes the field on their home turf. Play ball! 302 W. 2nd St., Rushville
Willow Tree Festival
Becky McCarville
DINING
RATHSKELLER OKTOBERFEST
SEPT. 9-10 • OMAHA
Rathskeller Bier Haus owner Charles “Chaz” Kline is dancing in his lederhosen again. It’s the lead-up to Oktoberfest, and the 1915-era brick building at 4524 Farnam in Omaha’s Blackstone District throbs with polka music and rings with laughter. Staff garbed in traditional German dress carry fists of frothing beer steins and platters of steaming pretzels.
In German culture, a rathskeller is a bar/community gathering place for wedding parties and family events, typically in the basement, or cellar, of a city hall or bank. Located on Farnam Street, with abundant indoor and outdoor seating, Rathskeller Bier Haus creates a community and cultural experience.
There are hefty wooden tables and community benches. People sample from an enormous menu of German and local and regional beers A menu spotlights “Germerican” food. The Reuben pretzel is a special treat – stuffed with corned beef and melted Swiss cheese and drizzled with Russian dressing and a homemade kraut mixture. But first, bar-goers drink beer and play games.
Chaz, ever the showman, grabs a full stein and immediately starts a one-man stein holding contest – arm outstretched, elbow locked, not spilling one drop of beer for five minutes. He beats the previous record-holder at Rathskeller by about 20 seconds.
Winners of stein holding and other Bavarian games like pretzel and bratwurst eating contests, nagel schlagen (driving nails into a wood board), the boot drinking game, keg tossing, darts and bags will take the stage and compete at this year’s Oktoberfest celebration at Rathskeller, scheduled Sept. 9-10. There might be beer drinking, but this is a family-friendly event and will offer fun for all. (402) 991-7724
WHERE TO EAT
VIS MAJOR BREWING CO. Vis Major Brewing Co. has won the hearts of its beer-loving neighbors and beyond. Truffle popcorn, pretzels and specialty pizzas pair well with its artisan craft beers. Neighbors make friends here. 3501 Center St. (402) 800-8846
WHERE TO STAY
ALOFT OMAHA AKSARBEN VILLAGE Aloft’s modern and whimsical design springs to life in Central Omaha, with easy access to the Interstate. Close by are major corporate headquarters, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Baxter Arena, nightlife, local eateries and shops, and green space that holds events. 6201 Center St. (877) 462-5638
WHERE TO PLAY
KEYSTONE TRAIL From Aksarben Village, cyclists hit the Keystone Trail, the backbone of Omaha’s 120-mile trail system that connects to various trails, including the South Omaha Trail and Field Club Trail. Walkers, joggers, bikers, skaters and even cross-country skiers coast the paved paths. It’s a busy place. On your left!
HISTORY
CANTEEN FESTIVAL
OCT. 7-8 • NORTH PLATTE
On Dec. 17, 1941 – just after America entered World War II – a rumor spread like a wildfire through the town of North Platte. Nebraska National Guard company D was on a train destined to make a stop in town. The townspeople assembled anxiously at the depot to give their boys gifts as a sendoff. Surprised looks crossed their faces when Kansas National Guardsmen stepped off instead. Without hesitation, the Nebraskans passed out presents anyway.
Thus began a tradition of Nebraska hospitality during World War II. For over four years, the citizens of North Platte, primarily young women with their daughters and sons, banded together to open a canteen at the depot. Soldiers on their way to war, many teenagers, received tasty treats and a dose of optimism.
This fall North Platte once again welcomes visitors to the North Platte Canteen Festival held at the Historical Downtown Canteen District. The festival features a blend of entertainment and education. This year’s new production in the North Platte Community Playhouse, A Sentimental Musical Journey, tells the story of the canteen while paying tribute to the traditional dance and music of the era.
The streets come alive with activity as a band performs 1940s hits and dancers of all ages let loose. Vendors peddle unique wares next to businesses in the historic district, and the area becomes almost as busy as it was for four years during World War II.
Amanda Connick, the event organizer, loves seeing people react to experiencing the story firsthand. “Tears well up in their eyes.”
By the war’s end, nearly 8,000 troops passed through the Canteen a day, more than 6 million soldiers in all. They came from all corners of the country, but their stop in North Platte was a compassionate moment in a journey into the unknown. – Mason Lee
WHERE TO EAT
LUIGI’S Generous plates of pasta, piping hot homemade rolls and warm service make this casual Italian eatery a popular spot for families. Locals swear by the specials, like osso buco. Seafood and meat entrees also wow. 502 S. Jeffers St. (308) 221-2961
WHERE TO STAY
HUSKER INN This cozy budget hotel is close to attractions like the North Platte Children’s Museum, Cody Park and the Lincoln County Historical Museum. 721 E. 4th St. (308) 534-6960
WHERE TO GO
BUFFALO BILL’S STATE HISTORICAL PARK Guests learn about the man, the myth, the legend Buffalo Bill Cody. This complex and fascinating Pony Express Rider, Army scout, bison hunter and showman lived an outsized life. The house and barn tell his story. 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Rd. (308) 535-8035
Lincoln County Historical Museum
Molly Houser/University of Nebraska Communications
SPORTS
HUSKER VOLLEYBALL
DEC. 15, 17 • OMAHA
At the Bob Devaney Sports Center in Lincoln, a sold-out crowd roars as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Cornhuskers women’s volleyball team bumps, sets and spikes their way to another win. Husker volleyball fans have cheered their team on to claim five NCAA championships – and nearly a sixth last year. The team has something to prove this year, especially since the NCAA Women’s Volleyball Tournament will happen in Nebraska.
In 2021, the team fell short in a heartbreaking title match with Wisconsin in Ohio. This year, the team plans to go all the way again but seize the win – and fans would get to see it happen in Omaha. The CHI Health Center will host the NCAA Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Dec. 15 and 17.
That’s good news for a program that owes much to its Nebraska fans. They love good volleyball, no matter the outcome, said assistant coach Kelly Hunter, who also once played for the team and was a three-time Husker All-American and two-time national champion. For Hunter, it runs in the family. Her mom, Lori (Melcher) Hunter, played for the Huskers from 1977 to 1980. Back then, crowds were much smaller. Since then, fans have discovered the excitement of this women’s sport and become loyal fans – even though it coincides with the football season, debatably Nebraska’s most supported sport. The high pressure of a packed auditorium fuels the team’s success.
“It’s electric,” Hunter said. “High pressure and high expectations can bring out the best in you.”
The big push now is to create more opportunities for television coverage, like men’s sports have typically enjoyed. This year, the Big Ten Conference will televise a record 55 volleyball games. The Huskers will have 18 games televised, including 14 games that will air on national television.
Whether watching it live at 1600 Court St. or on the screen at home, fans leap to their feet with every ace serve to cry with gusto, “Go Big Red!”
WHERE TO EAT
LEADBELLY This homey water hole features twists on classic pub fare and local brews in a 130-year-old building that harkens back to the Haymarket’s historic rail station days. Guests tucks into hearty sandwiches, salads and fish & chips. 301 N. 8th St. (402) 261-8849
WHERE TO STAY
THE SCARLET HOTEL Situated in the heart of Innovation Campus, The Scarlet Hotel is as much a fan of Nebraska as Huskers are of their Big Red teams. From guest rooms and suites named after featured hometowns to design that pays tribute to the state’s legends and innovators, The Scarlet Hotel celebrates Nebraska. 2101 Transformation Dr. (531) 300-6300
WHERE TO PLAY
SPEEDWAY MOTORS MUSEUM OF AMERICAN SPEED Visitors peruse automotive history at the Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed, a 150,000-square-foot building that houses a speed-fueled collection curated by “Speedy” Bill and Joyce Smith. Kids enjoy racing around the building using their own horsepower. 599 Oakcreek Dr. (402) 323-3166
Other events you may enjoy
SEPTEMBER
Quarter Horse Show
Sept. 7-10 • Lincoln Lincoln hosts the fifth-largest quarter horse show in the nation, with more than 90 classes of competition featuring roping, English, jumping, trail riding, Western pleasure, halter and reining. Open to public viewing, youth, open and amateur classes will compete. (402) 441-6545
Greeley Irish Festival
Sept. 17 • Greeley It’s halfway to St. Patrick’s Day, which means it’s time for Greeley to green up their garb and their gear. A family clan parade kicks off the day, which features Irish step performances and music. Sounds like a lucky way to spend an autumn day. greeleyirishfestival.com
Tim Sullivan in Concert
Sept. 16-18 • Brownville Western songwriter Tim Sullivan brings his storytelling style and guitar chops to the Brownville Concert Series. The series, held in the charming historic church turned concert venue, provides an unparalleled intimate experience with killer acoustics. Sullivan, who’s played with Willie Nelson, Vince Gill and Tammy Wynette, takes audience members on a lyrical journey through heartbreak and triumph. (402) 825-3331
Lincoln Calling
Sept. 22-24 • Lincoln Celebrating music, art and education, this annual fall festival highlights local rockers, graphic designers, and fun-loving folks of all ages and abilities to dance, build, sing and create. Community members also gather to discuss how they’d like to change or improve their hometown of Lincoln. lincolncalling.com
Plum Creek Literacy Festival
Sept. 23-24 • Seward This reading festival begins with an all-day children’s books festival hosted by Concordia University. Nationally renowned children’s book authors and illustrators host interactive workshops with kids to encourage the love of reading and writing. On Saturday, adults mingle, talk books and rub elbows with authors. (402) 643-7483
Continental Drift Music Festival
Sept. 24 • Fremont This free music festival at Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area only requires a daily parking pass. The one-day grassroots music festival features rock, folk, powerpop and Americana in the great outdoors. Guests can also watch from boats. continentaldriftmusicfestival.com
We have something for everyone!
Lexington
NEBRASKA
Photo: Arturo Banderas
Antiques • Lodging • Unique Dining Museums • Winery • Brewery • Camping Recreation • Events • Celebrations
Lexington Convention & Visitor’s Bureau 308-324-5504 • lexcoc.com
Plan your visit to Ogallala – the Cowboy Capitol!
Petrified Wood & Art Gallery
Ancient woods, fossils, Western art and artifacts + New Cowboy Capitol Rodeo exhibit! Boot Hill Cowboy Cemetery Front Street Cowboy Museum Mansion on the Hill Museum Eat at great steakhouses and grills
Cool off at Lake McConaughy,
Nebraska’s largest lake 800-658-4390 I-80 Exit 126, OGALLALA, NE VisitKeithCounty.com
Living History Weekend
Sept. 24-25 • Nebraska City Guests to the Arbor Lodge Mansion and grounds enjoy watching demonstrations of costumed actors blacksmithing, fabric dyeing, printing, seeding, weaving, leather crafting, and cooking. Mansion admission $9 adults, $7 youth. (402) 873-7222
Walk For the Animals
Sept. 25• Omaha It’s a pawfect day to raise money for homeless pets. Participants in the Nebraska Humane Society walk can bring their pup. Vendors, games, food and beverages are offered. No dog? No prob. Rescue organizations introduce a new best friend. (402) 905-3483
Antiques Show
Sept. 29-Oct. 2 • Omaha Antique, garden and art lovers converge on Omaha’s unique collector’s experience to browse booths selling furniture, fine art, home décor, estate jewelry, tableware and fashion accessories. Luncheons feature talks by designers, illustrators and authors. omahaantiqueshow.org
Sidney Oktoberfest
Sept. 30-Oct. 2 • Sidney Watch the wienerdogs do their wurst in a race celebrating Oktoberfest. Three days of entertainment, food, live music and beer bring out the German in everyone. A car show, Saturday parade, craft show and high school band competition draw visitors from surrounding Western Nebraska. sidneyoktoberfest.com
OCTOBER
Harvest Moon Festival
Oct. 1 • Chadron This year’s Harvest Moon Festival will hit a little differently. A drumline battle encourages local schools to win best band. Audience applause determines the winner. Games, food and festivities also included. harvestmoonfallfestival.org
Great Pumpkin Festival
Oct. 1-2 • Crete Knives out, pumpkin carvers! Will it be a grinning face, a leering sneer, or a goblin-like grimace? Pumpkin carving demos inspire ideas. Carnival games, a food court and a car show will inspire fun. Firefighters and police will be on hand to meet the kids and community. (402) 826-2136
Stray from the Ordinary!
1.877.223.NABB | nebraskabb.com
seek your adventure from sunrise to sunset in Knox county
Adventure tourism awaits you in Knox County. Join us for outdoor recreation, culture, and history in our ‘neck of the woods’. Visit Knox County
For vacation ideas, events and lodging contact us:
knoxcountynebraska.com • 402-288-5619
Visit Knox County Nebraska
Bazile Mills • Bloomfield • Center • Creighton • Crofton • Lindy Niobrara • Santee • Verdel • Verdigre • Wausa • Winnetoon
Hallowfest
Oct. 8 and 15 • Ponca State Park Guests spooked by the dark enjoy takeand-go crafts, pumpkin carving and a pumpkin roll race during the day, as well as campsite decorating. Once night falls, who-who-who will dare board a hayrack ride with scary surprises. (402) 755-2284
Kearney Craft Show
Oct. 22 • Kearney Handcrafted items delight shoppers as vendors supply a plethora of repurposed, crafted, up-cycled, canned and baked goods at Buffalo County Fairgrounds. Admission is free. (308) 379-9272
Good Life Halfsy
Oct. 23 • Lincoln Runners lace up their shoes. The 13.1mile course winds through Lincoln and ends in the Historic Haymarket District, where organizers serve Runzas and local brews to the runners. goodlifehalfsy.com
TRIVIA ANSWERS
Questions on p 24-25
1 The Stuhr
Museum of the
Prairie Pioneer 2 The Lincoln
Highway 3 Law Enforcement 4 Joe Feeney 5 Casino 6 True 7 True 8 False. It was named for an island on the
Platte River. 9 True 10 False. The fair relocated to
Grand Island in 2010 after a 2008 bill passed in the legislature. 11 b. Coney Island
Lunch Room 12 c. wings… take flight 13 c. Herbie the
Husker driving a
Lamborghini 14 a. Tornado Hill 15 b. Pawnee
Trivia Photographs
Page 16 Historical interpreters at Stuhr. Page 16 Ribbon-worthy produce. Page 17 Henry Fonda, Grand Island hunk.
the village of MORRILL
a recreator’s dream
Morrill Village has everything a family vacation needs. Just 20 minutes from the bustle of Scottsbluff, you can hit the range at the public 9-hole golf course, go for a dip at the community swimming pool, stroll through the city park or pick-up a tennis match at the courts. And don’t forget to pack your tackle box and poles for some fishing at the sand pit ponds!
START PLANNING YOUR GETAWAY TODAY
VILLAGE OF MORRILL
VillageOfMorrill.com
308-247-2312 Mon-Fri, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm 118 S Center Morrill, NE
Explore Lincoln’s Best
Treasure hunt 25,000 sq-ft-plus of antiques and collectibles. You’ll find something for everyone at the Aardvark Antique Mall. Lincoln’s best kept secret!
Located off I-80 and Exit 405. Open daily, 9 am-8 pm
aardvarkantiquemall.com 402-464-5100 5800 Arbor Rd • Lincoln
SEWARD ParadeofFLAGS
Welcoming Visitors to the 4th of July City
Located East of Seward on Hwy 34
• Display of all 50 states flags and flags from the five military branches and POW • Flags lit at night for spectacular viewing opportunity • Entire display is handicap-accessible and open year round • Additional donations to assist with maintenance would be greatly appreciated
Made possible by Visitors Committee of Chamber of Commerce
