Spring Fling in

Billed as the “Biggest Easter Egg Hunt West of the Mississippi,” thousands of prize-filled plastic colored eggs are laid out over an acre of land, waiting to be found and grabbed by hundreds of children of all ages. It’s all part of Spring Fling, a one-day festival the Saturday before Easter, hosted by Master’s Hand Boutique in rural Tekamah, Tekamah is about 45 minutes north of Omaha.

The family-friendly event, which is almost 15 years old, features inflatable attractions such as slides and bouncy houses, pony rides, games, and barrel train rides for children, as well as a petting zoo featuring farm animals such as goats and sheep. Animal handlers present shows starring birds and snakes. Clowns, team mascots, and make-up artists help visitors enjoy the eight-hour event, which begins at 8:30 a.m. and runs until 5 p.m. Musical acts often include clogger dance troupes and bucket percussion bands.

A popular event is the Peeps eating contest, in which people in specific age groups – mostly children - compete to see who can eat the most of the sugary marshmallow chicks in the quickest time.

Attracting thousands of people from across the Midwest, the festival features a variety of vendors, from jewelry to books, and more, that appeal to everyone. The event isn’t just for families.

Starting as a home school project making candles, Susie Robison has grown Master’s hand into one of the most-popular boutique outlets in Nebraska. People from all over the Midwest visit to shop, enjoy lunch, pick up a few candies, and participate in the Spring Fling festivities.