Summer in Nebraska can be a trying time for those of us who just aren't built for hot weather and swarms of insects...but it's still full of magic despite the heat and pests. These photos will remind you of the simpler, sweeter things about summer in Nebraska.
1. Baseball
From Little League to the minor leagues, baseball is a staple of any Nebraska summer.
2. Vegetable gardens
If you don't have one, your neighbor or coworker does...and you're about to reap the rewards with bags full of extra cucumbers, zucchinis, and tomatoes.
3. Flower gardens
Beautiful, colorful flowers are everywhere, and it makes us smile.
4. Farmers markets
If you aren't getting your fresh vegetables from your yard or a neighbor's yard, you're probably getting them from one of the many farmers markets that pop up all across the state every summer.
5. Picnics
Eating outdoors is one of the simple pleasures of summer. We love taking a basket of sandwiches and fresh fruit out to a park and enjoying the weather while we eat.
6. Fishing
What a perfect example of summertime fun: getting up before dawn, heading out to your favorite little fishing spot, and waiting for the big one to bite. Even if you don't catch anything, it's a summer ritual that we wouldn't miss.
7. Festivals
We've got a festival for just about everything, and they're all amazing. Every single one. Here are some of our favorite annual festivals, and some of the best food-centric festivals in Nebraska.
8. Fairs - county AND state
Something just feels off if you let a summer pass by without attending your county fair. The state fair is a trek that not all of us are able to make every year, but when we do it's an unforgettable summer experience.
9. Amazing views like this
This view and others can be found in our multitude of state parks and recreation areas. After a bit of a hike, you'll be rewarded with some breathtaking scenery (and the scenery along the way is pretty impressive, too).
10. Hiking and biking trails
This is a common sight along Nebraska's many trails in almost any weather, but especially in summer. We love getting out and enjoying a good hike or bike ride whenever we can.
11. Fireworks
There are SO MANY great fireworks shows throughout the state - and not just on the Fourth of July, either.
12. A day on Lake McConaughy
It doesn't matter what you do on the lake...as long as you're there, you're loving summer.
13. ...Or a day on the river
Going tubing or tanking on one of Nebraska's gentle rivers is one of those experiences that will hold you over through the long, icy winter.
14. The sunset over the water
It doesn't matter if it's a lake or a river; the sun setting over Nebraska water is a sweet and beautiful sight.
15. Country roads
Turn off the air conditioning in the car, roll down the windows, and let the summer breeze blow through your hair as you drive along some scenic country roads. You may get a little dusty, but it's worth it.
16. The vibrant green of the corn fields
...Or any field, really. Lush summer fields rolling past as you drive is a comforting sight for any Nebraska native.
17. Thunderstorms
There are few things more exciting than a really good summer thunderstorm. We'll all run outside to watch it approach because we know nature puts on a better show than anyone else could ever hope to.
18. Making memories with family and friends
This picture sums up what summer in Nebraska is all about: being outdoors with the people we care about, having fun and maybe being a little wild in the process.
If you want to have a summer you'll never forget, check out our ultimate summer bucket list - you'll never run out of things to do.
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