Come one or bring the family for one of the numerous daily festivals or special events offered at the Nebraska State Fair. Special music, performances, and activities are planned on each special day.

2009:

Please check back at a later time for new updates.

2008:

The following were some of festivals and special events featured at the 2008 Nebraska State Fair: 

Festivals:

Fiesta Latina

August 24, 2008 – Located in the Open Air Auditorium

Throughout the day, music and dancing were provided by local and regional groups, ending with an evening of entertainment by El Guero Y Su Banda Centenario. The concert began at 7:00 pm. This event was in partnership with El Centro de Las Americas. 

Great Nebraska Craft Beer and Wine Festival

August 22 through September 1, 2008 – Located on Main Street

Military Appreciation Day

August 29, 2008 – Located in the Open Air Auditorium

This year, the Nebraska State Fair was proud to honor all current and past military personnel on August 29. Active military personnel and veterans received complimentary gate admission to the Nebraska State Fair on Military Appreciation Day until 5:00 pm with military identification.  Military Appreciation Day included posting and parade of colors, welcome from the Governor, and entertainment from the Omaha Big Band, LTD. On Military Appreciation Day, all veterans, auxiliary members, color guards, marching units, military floats and vehicles participated in the Parade of Colors and wore their uniforms during the daily parade at noon.

Older Nebraskans’ Celebration

August 25 and August 26, 2008 – Located in the Open Air Auditorium

Presented by Tabitha Health Care Services and cosponsored by Roberts Dairy and KFOR Radio, the festival offered two days of national entertainment and health, wellness and informational exhibits.  The festival offered seniors 60 years and older a reduced gate admission of only $3 on Monday and Tuesday, August 25 and 26 from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm. Complimentary coffee and cake were served at 9:00 am and an ice cream social was held at 1:00 pm on both days while supplies last.  Performing two shows on August 25 was Barbra and Frank "The Concert That Never Was." Show times were 10:00 am and 12:00 p.m.  On August 28, pianist Jo Ann Castle formerly of “The Lawrence Welk Show” performed.

Special Events:

U.S. Senate Debate

August 23, 2008 – Located in the Open Air Auditorium

Presented by Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation and the Rural Radio Network/KRVN Radio, Scott Kleeb (Democratic candidate), Mike Johanns (Republican candidate), and Steve Larrick (Green Party candidate) participated in a debate for the U.S. Senate seat.  Ken Rahjes of KRVN Radio, served as moderator. Each candidate responded to questions from a panel of reporters and had an opportunity for closing remarks. The debate was broadcast live on the Rural Radio Network, KRVN 880 Lexington, KNEB 960 Scottsbluff, and KTIC 840 West Point.  The debate began at 11:00 am.