Phelps County is the perfect place to start checking off your summer bucket list. Located in south-central Nebraska, it’s an easy drive from just about anywhere—and once you’re here, you’ll find no shortage of classic summer experiences, small-town charm, and fun for all ages.
Go to a Parade
Nothing says summer like lining the streets for a hometown parade. Plan to be in Holdrege on June 21 for the 50th anniversary of the Midsummer Festival Grand Parade, a community tradition featuring floats, classic cars, marching bands, and more. Miss that one? Head to downtown Bertrand on Tuesday, July 1, for the Bertrand Rodeo Parade and catch another wave of small-town celebration.
Eat Ice Cream for Supper
Who needs a reason? Make it a treat-yourself evening with a stop at the new Dairy Queen on Burlington Avenue for a delicious blizzard. Or swing by Coal & Feed Coffee & Vittle in downtown Holdrege for a scoop of delicious hard-packed ice cream, and be sure grab your Nebraska Passport stamp while you’re there! Or, try a new twist on ice cream at the new Funky Monkey shaved ice stand (4th and Hancock) with their signature treat, the Funky Rootbeer Float. It is a one-of-a-kind treat with ice cream in the bottom, layered with shaved ice, topped with a “snow cap” made from sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and simple syrup. Yum!
Ride a Ferris Wheel
The Phelps County Fair brings classic carnival fun each summer, and the Ferris wheel is a must. Take a ride and enjoy sweeping views of the fairgrounds, cotton candy in hand, and lights blinking as the sun sets. The DC Lynch Carnival will be at the fair in Holdrege for three nights, July 21-23 from 6-11 p.m.
Attend an Outdoor Concert
The lineup of live music in Phelps County this summer is incredible:
- Lemon Fresh Day on Friday, June 20, at the Summer Sunset Concert in downtown Holdrege
- FishHeads on June 21 and Strings Attached on June 27 both at Gutterz Fun Center,
- Jimmy Lee Jordan Band on June 28 at Bertrand Brews & BBQ in downtown Bertrand
- Formerly Three at the Phelps County Fair on July 21
- The Voice finalist Jalen Johnston, along with Jaden Schumacher and Kyle Sayler at the Iron Horse Arts Festival on Aug. 23.
Catch a Fish
Bring your fishing gear or kayak to North Park Lake in Holdrege. It’s peaceful, scenic, and the perfect way to spend a quiet summer evening. The Nebraska Game and Parks stocks the lake with trout several times a year for a successful fishing day!
Jump in a Pool
When the Nebraska heat rolls in, there’s no better place to cool off than the Bertrand Aquatic Park or the Holdrege Swimming Pool. A trip to the pool is a summer essential for families and swimmers alike. You could also cool off at free splash pads at Holdrege’s North Park or the Loomis City Park.
Eat Cupcakes
Sweeten your summer at the Funk Festival of Cupcakes on July 13 at the Funk School Community Center. Sample cupcakes from bakers from around the Midwest and pick your favorite.
Watch a Rodeo
Experience the thrill of rodeo season at two Phelps County Events — the 75th Anniversary of the Bertrand Fair and Rodeo on Monday, June 30, and Tuesday, July 1, in Bertrand or the new Rural Frontier Foundation Bull Ride and Jr. Bronc event at the Phelps County Fair on Tuesday, July 22. The Phelps County Fair event will also feature mutton bustin for the kids, live music, and a beer garden. Both events are a great way to connect with Nebraska’s ranching roots and enjoy high-energy entertainment.
Go to a Farmer’s Market
Support local makers and fill your basket with fresh produce, handmade goods, and baked treats at the Holdrege Area Farmers Market each Thursday on the Phelps County Courthouse lawn or at the Maker’s Market on June 7, July 12, and Aug. 2 at Lost Way Brewery in downtown Holdrege.
Play a Round of Golf
Phelps County boasts two amazing golf courses – the Holdrege Area Country Club, which is celebrating its 100th birthday this year, and the Hi-Line Golf Course in Bertrand. Both courses are open to the public. If the weather is bad, practice your swing at The Drive Golf & Lounge in downtown Holdrege on indoor golf simulators. Or, try golfing with a Frisbee instead at the disc golf course at Veterans Memorial Park in Holdrege.
