Nebraska Best Food and Drink Festivals 

Nebraska, the Cornhusker State, is not just about vast farmlands and scenic landscapes, it's also a haven for food and beverage enthusiasts. The state hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating the best of local and regional cuisine, craft beers, and delectable wines.

Western Nebraska Craft Beer Festival: September

This unique craft beer celebration has become firmly anchored in North Platte's annual event calendar, seamlessly pairing Nebraska's finest brews with an unconventional sporting spectacle. The Western Nebraska Craft Beer Festival, hosted at Pals Brewing Company, transforms their sprawling two-acre outdoor venue into a tasting paradise where attendees sample selections from breweries, wineries, and distilleries from across the Cornhusker State. Each guest receives a commemorative 5-ounce glass for sampling the diverse array of Nebraska-crafted beverages.

The festival distinguishes itself by hosting the National Avocado Launching Championship, giving attendees prime viewing of this quirky competition as they enjoy their drinks. Now in its sixth year, this rain-or-shine gathering exemplifies the creative spirit of Nebraska's craft beverage scene. Visit North Platte partners with Pals Brewing Company to ensure this distinctive combination of craft beverages and avocado projectiles continues to entertain locals and visitors alike.

Original Greek Festival: August

A cherished Midwestern tradition draws thousands of visitors to St. John's Greek Orthodox Church in central Omaha for an immersive Greek experience. Twenty-five local food vendors, including family favorites like John's Gyros and Maria's Pastries, serve authentic delicacies such as souvlaki, moussaka, spanakopita, and homemade baklava. The festival features traditional Greek wines and spirits including ouzo, Mythos beer, and a selection of wines from various Greek regions.

Live performances by the Apollon Dance Troupe showcase traditional folk dances, while The Grecian Keys band provides authentic bouzouki music throughout the festivities. Indoor and outdoor marketplace areas host artisans selling traditional crafts, jewelry, and imported Greek specialty items. Approximately 15,000 attendees annually enjoy church tours, cooking demonstrations, and children's activities including face painting and traditional Greek games.

Taste of Omaha: June

This annual riverfront food and cultural celebration has become one of Nebraska's largest summer festivals, drawing over 150,000 visitors to the Lewis and Clark Landing in downtown Omaha. Taste of Omaha features more than 50 local restaurants and food vendors, including popular spots like Dante Pizzeria, Block 16, and M's Pub, serving everything from wood-fired pizzas to craft burgers and international cuisine. Local breweries and wineries offer tastings at multiple beverage pavilions, with Infusion Brewing Company and Soaring Wings Vineyard among the regular participants.

The festival spans three stages showcasing over 40 live performances, including regional bands and national touring acts, though specific lineups vary each year. Free cooking demonstrations from local chefs take place throughout the weekend in the culinary pavilion, giving attendees tips and techniques to recreate signature dishes at home. The festival includes a dedicated kids' zone with face painting and inflatables, plus an artisan market featuring handmade goods from Nebraska craftspeople.