Nebraska’s many, many outdoor festivals fill the calendar from the first warm weekend to the first snow. Some of our favorites are the festivals that focus on food, and the Central Plains Ribfest in Holdrege (in Phelps County) is one that no one should miss.

Central Plains Ribfest is a competition that's open to the public. For $225, anyone can register to prove to the state that they make the best BBQ.
Facebook/Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce
The festival is an official State Championship competition, qualifying the Grand Champion to compete in the Jack Daniels World BBQ Cookoff.
Facebook/Central Plains Ribfest
Competitors can choose to compete in the four-meat contest (Pork Ribs; Pork (Boston Butt or Shoulder); Beef Brisket; and Chicken)...
Facebook/Central Plains Ribfest

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...or in only the People's Choice portion.
Facebook/Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce
The festival is held in conjunction with Swedish Days, Holdrege's famed summer celebration of the area's largely Swedish heritage.
Facebook/Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce
Swedish Days features one of the best parades in the state along with a full weekend of attractions, activities, and tons of fun for people of all ages.
Facebook/Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce
There will be plenty of food available for purchase, of course, along with a beer garden. There's no reason to walk away hungry from this party!
Facebook/Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce

The 2017 Central Plains Ribfest and the 28th annual Swedish Days Festival will take place in Holdrege on June 16th and 17th. There are events all weekend all throughout the town. Find out more from the Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce or the event’s Facebook page.

Another classic Nebraska festival is coming up on Memorial Day weekend – the Callaway Kite Flight!

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