At 123 Years Old, Popcorn Days Is The Longest-Running Annual Festival In Nebraska

What town in Nebraska celebrates Popcorn Days each year? We love a good festival here in Nebraska, and there are tons of them to enjoy every year. The longest continuously-running festival in the state is Popcorn Days in the town of North Loup. This unique celebration takes place on Aug. 16-18, 2024, and is full of fun, games, and — of course — lots of popcorn! Let's check out this Nebraska popcorn festival!

North Loup's iconic festival began in 1901. Following a drought and a few difficult growing seasons, farmers in the area tried out a number of alternative crops in their fields.

One crop did particularly well: popcorn.

The town has celebrated the fruitful crop every August since then at Popcorn Days in Nebraska.

It's a weekend-long event that includes everything from parades to sports to carnival games. The carnival's midway is jam-packed with awesome rides and vendors. Try your hand at a couple of games, pick up some gifts for friends, and eat some delicious food to keep you fueled up for all the fun.

Try to support the North Loup Park Fund Food Stand at the southeast side of the Community Building serving roast pork and homemade pies. Come for breakfast on Saturday and Sunday morning starting at 8:30 a.m.

And, maybe best of all, there's free popcorn as far as the eye can see. Just be careful not to eat too much of it - there's lots of other great food available to purchase!

The weekend's events always kick off on Friday. You can expect to enjoy attractions, such as the turtle race, the men's softball tournament, a street dance, a kids' parade, and a second parade that's the largest in the area.

Win some bragging rights at the "POP" Cornhole Tournament from 12:30-3:00 p.m. on

Friday, one block south of Fire Hall.

Also on Friday, watch the Magically Memorable Magician Kieth Leff from

7:30-10:00 p.m. where you may be invited to participate in one of the comedic magic performances.

We enjoy the variety of activities at Nebraska Popcorn Days.

The North Loup Popcorn Days Dash takes place from 8:00- 9:00 a.m. on Saturday at the South Side of Fire Hall. Participate in the 5- or 2-mile run, or the 2- or 1-mile walk.

Plan to show your best moves at the Polka Dance on Sunday from

3:00 to 5:00 p.m. The 3 Guys Band will provide the talent in the Beer Garden.

What town in Nebraska celebrates popcorn days each year? Discover more on the North Loup Popcorn Days website. Have you attended this lovely celebration of one of our favorite summer foods? Please share your experience in the comments below.

Not too far from North Loup is another town that you've just got to visit that's anything but ordinary. Reserve a room while you're there on Booking.com.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nebraska/unique-town-ord-ne/