Annual Events in Hastings, Nebraska
The PRCA Oregon Trail Rodeo
www.adamscountyfairgrounds.com
The PRCA Oregon Trail Rodeo is held in August, providing an opportunity for everyone to appreciate a sport that has a big part in the heritage of the state.
Whoopers & Hoopers Basketball Tournament
www.hastingschamber.com
The largest adult 5×5 basketball tournament in the Midwest is held in March. From beginners to elite players, over 100 teams from across the country travel to Hastings for this three-day weekend tournament.
Kool-Aid Days
www.kool-aiddays.com
Each August, Kool-Aid Days celebrates the invention of Kool-Aid in 1927 by Edwin Perkins with a multi-day family-friendly event. Come celebrate this summertime favorite and Nebraska’s official soft drink by visiting the World’s Largest Kool-Aid Stand, enjoy carnival games and food, enter a Kool-Aid drinking contest, ride trolleys, listen to free concerts and visit numerous family-oriented vendors and community booths.
The Downtown Celebration of Lights
www.hastingsdowntown.com
In November, the Downtown Celebration of Lights offers a great way to kick off the holiday season. As Santa makes his grand entrance onto 2nd Street, music fills the air and white lights outline historic buildings against the night sky. Food vendors, face painting and entertainment round out this family event.
The Hastings Bridal Fair
www.adamscountyfairgrounds.com
Every January, The Adams County Fairgrounds host the Hastings Bridal Fair. This is an event for brides to meet local businesses and book for their upcoming big day. This definitively minimizes the stress while planning a big event by finding every vendor you would need in one place.
The Adams County Fairfest
www.adamscountyfairgrounds.com
In July, the Adams County Fairfest always includes concerts from well-known performers, excitement of demolition derbies, festival foods, vendors and carnival rides. Don’t forget to check out the animals and exhibits as well. It’s a great family event.
Vital Signs Health Fair
This annual event is held at the Adams County Fairgrounds from 7 a.m. to noon the fourth weekend in March. The health fair offers educational booths, free screenings and a blood test that include readings for cholesterol levels, HDL, LDL and triglycerides as well as blood sugar levels, liver function and other values that give physicians an indication of a person’s overall health.
The Health Fair is sponsored by Central Community College, Mary Lanning Healthcare, Good Samaritan Society – Hastings Village, Hastings Family YMCA and South Heartland District Health Department.
Art in the Park
Facebook: “Art in the Park Hastings”
In August, more than 50 artisans from across Nebraska and the surrounding states will exhibit and sell one-of-a-kind artwork, jewelry, pottery, paintings, photography, woodworking and more in the beautiful Libs Park. Admission is free; bring the whole family! Listen to live music, dine on food truck specialties and make a purchase under the shade trees. Art in the Park is a signature community event.