Giant Adventures, Small-Town Pace: Explore Phelps County

Looking for a fall getaway filled with giant fun, giant flavors and giant memories? Here are 10 larger-than-life reasons to visit Phelps County this fall.

 

1. See Giant Pumpkins Weigh Hundreds of Pounds

The Nebraska Prairie Museum’s Fall Festival on Sept. 26 features the Nebraska Giant Pumpkin Growers Competition, a sanctioned weigh-off with more than $5,000 in prize money. Watch as growers bring their biggest pumpkins to the scales and compete for top honors.

While you’re at the museum’s fall festival, explore the corn maze and enjoy old-fashioned games, food trucks, live music and fun for the entire family.

 

2. Experience Big Entertainment at the Tassel

Book your seat in Holdrege’s 818-seat Tassel Performing Arts Center, which is an upscale world-class theater with small-town crowds. This fall’s lineup includes The Diva’s Tribute to the Troops (Aug. 27), The Reunion Beatles (Sept. 10), Josh Hoyer’s Soul Colossal 4 (Oct. 1) and Quarteto Nuevo (Oct. 22), bringing nationally recognized talent to Holdrege.

Also, save the date for other upcoming shows at the Tassel: Danae Dorken piano (Nov. 20) and The Barefoot Movement: Barefoot Holiday (Dec. 18).

 

 

3. Meet a World-Famous Bronze Sculptor during Art Weekend

Celebrate the arts Aug. 27-29 in Holdrege with The Divas Tribute to the Troops at the Tassel Performing Arts Center (Aug. 27), An Evening with George Lundeen at the Iron Horse Art Gallery (Aug. 28) and the Flyover Country Stage Concert featuring Tanner Sovereign and Jaden Schumacher (Aug. 29) at JB’s Sports Bar and Grill.

George Lundeen is a Holdrege native and internationally acclaimed sculptor, who will speak at the Iron Horse Art Gallery on Aug. 28. Hear from George and view his work close up at his gallery show that will be on display through mid-September.

See Holdrege’s collection of 22 larger-than-life bronze sculptures, including many created by George, on the Holdrege Bronze Sculpture Tour.

 

4. Shop One-of-a-Kind Finds, Makers Market & Bertrand Craft Show

On Sept. 12, more than 25 vendors will line Third Avenue in downtown Holdrege for the Makers Market at Lost Way Brewery. Browse handmade and homegrown products, meet local makers and enjoy the beer garden while shopping for unique treasures.  Link to Lost Way Brewery

Shop handmade gifts, seasonal décor and unique creations from talented artisans at the Bertrand Craft Show on Oct. 17.

 

5. Savor a Farm-to-Table Feast Under Nebraska Skies

Slow down and enjoy an unforgettable evening of local flavors at the Cross Diamond Meats Farm-to-Table Dinner on Saturday, Sept. 19, in rural Loomis. Set against the backdrop of the Nebraska countryside, this special dining experience will feature premium red Angus beef raised and prepared by Cross Diamond Cattle and Meats, paired with fresh seasonal produce from Sweet Blooms Village and other local growers. For ticket information, visit sweetbloomsvillage.com.

 

6. Brave Giant Frights at a Haunted House and Haunted Holdrege

Holdrege’s Grey’s Twisted Manor haunted house returns every Friday and Saturday in October with haunted house thrills designed to test your courage. Twisted hallways, eerie surprises and unexpected frights await those brave enough to enter.

Presented by the Iron Horse Arts District, the Haunted Holdrege walking tour on Oct. 24 takes guests inside some of downtown Holdrege’s most historic buildings, including the Phelps County District Courtroom, Historic Holdrege Sun Theater & Event Venue, Iron Horse Station, and Bruce Furniture, which once served as a mortuary. Along the way, visitors will hear tales of mysterious happenings, haunted lore and fascinating local history that bring downtown’s past to life.

 

7. Take the Giant Pancake Challenge

Head to the Cozy Inn Cafe in Holdrege and take on the famous Pancake Challenge. Diners who can finish three plate-sized pancakes earn a coveted spot on the restaurant’s Wall of Fame and serious bragging rights.

 

8. Feast on Legendary Nebraska Steaks & Hearty BBQ Portions 

Phelps County boasts many great flavors at area restaurants, but we are especially known for our steaks.

The Speakeasy Restaurant has earned statewide recognition for its legendary prime rib and was recently named Nebraska’s best prime rib destination. While you’re there, ask about the restaurant’s resident ghost, “Faceless Fred,” who is said to still make occasional appearances.

The Blue Moose Restaurant in Bertrand is another local favorite, serving exceptional steaks, seafood and comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.

If barbecue is more your style, make a stop at 37 Smokehouse, where giant portions of slow-smoked brisket, ribs and pulled pork have made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

 

9. Discover a Giant Selection of Wedding Dresses

Brides-to-be are often surprised to find one of central Nebraska’s largest bridal selections in the small village of Loomis. Bridal Isle offers hundreds of wedding gowns and formalwear options, attracting shoppers from across the Midwest and beyond.

 

10. Sip a Larger-Than-Life Ice Cream Margarita

Hungry and thirsty? Stop by Catrinas Mexican Cuisine and order their new Ice Cream Margarita. This giant specialty drink is almost as much dessert as it is a cocktail and has become a favorite photo-worthy treat for visitors.

 

 

 

 

Grand Adventures, Small-Town Pace

Stay close to the action at one of Phelps County’s welcoming accommodations, where you can park for free, skip the crowds and enjoy the comfort and charm of small-town Nebraska.