Festivals and Events

What’s life without a little spice? Dawson County provides plenty of excitement year-round for residents and visitors who want to enjoy their playtime.

For instance, Gothenburg hosts the annual Pony Express Rodeo each July 3rd and 4th. It includes mutton busting, barbecue and fireworks in addition to the traditional rodeo events. The annual Harvest Festival celebration in September celebrated 90 years in 2004, and continues to attract crowds each year. Events include a parade, arts and crafts, kids’ games, food and entertainment in the park, a horseshoe-pitching tournament and many other special events.

Cozad festivals include an annual 3-on-3 Round Ball Ruckus Basketball Tournament in June; Bands, Brew & BBQ Festival (featuring live bands, area breweries, sidewalk sales, kids games and other activities) in July; Friday Nite Cruise-In Car Show of antique and classic vehicles in August; and the annual Hay Days Celebration with parade and carnival in September.

Lexington’s annual festivals include the Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce Antique Extravaganza over the Labor Day weekend, Plum Creek Rodeo the first weekend in June, and Cinco De Mayo celebrations. Area residents anticipate events like the Farmer’s Market at the Grand Generation Center, Carnival Days, antique car shows, outdoor teas and the Dawson County Fair. The River Valley Raceway begins humming in late May, and races on the dirt track thrill audiences every Sunday night throughout the summer months.