LINCOLN – There are plenty of activities across the State to enjoy in August. According to their release, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission encourages people to spend some time this summer in Nebraska’s state parks. Various events are planned in August for those interested in history, nature or just having a good time outdoors.
Several exciting events are happening in Ponca. The Aquatic Center will be open daily on August 1 through 6, then just weekends until Labor Day. The hours will be 1 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 12 to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday. A Guided Full Moon Hike will begin at 9:15 p.m. on August 1 and 8 p.m. on August 30 on the Corp of Discovery Trail. Meet at the trailhead on the riverfront. Kayak the Missouri River backwaters on August 5. Space is limited, and registration is required. Call 402-755-2284 to register. A Nebraska park entry permit is required for all events.
Step back in time and enjoy a Living History Weekend at Fort Atkinson State Historical Park near Fort Calhoun from August 5 through 6. Ongoing demonstrations featuring military and civilian life of the 1820s will occur throughout the park. Reenactors portray fur traders, coopers, blacksmiths, carpenters, tinsmiths, weavers, and other period trades. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the reenactors. A Nebraska park entry permit is required. Admission to the Harold W. Andersen Visitor Center is $4 for those aged 13 and older and $1 for children 3-12. For more information, contact the park at ngpc.fort.atkinson@nebraska.gov or 402-468-5611.
Enjoy stargazing at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park near Ashland on August 25. Telescopes will be provided so visitors may get a glimpse at the night sky beginning at dusk. Meet behind the park’s golf shack. Remember to bring camp chairs or blankets. The event is free, but a Nebraska vehicle park entry permit is required. The rain date is August 26.
Mystery at the Mansion is set for August 26 at Arbor Lodge State Historical Park in Nebraska City for an evening of fun with Mystery at the Manson: Sin City. This old-fashioned whodunit will occur at Arbor Lodge Mansion at 6 p.m. Solve clues, look for evidence, and break the case while mingling with new friends. Participants will receive a character to portray as they arrive at Arbor Lodge Mansion. The cost is $30, and space is limited for this adults-only event. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit the event listing at Calendar.Outdoornebraska.gov to buy tickets or for information on adding dinner or lodging.
Wildcat Hills SRA to host the Night Sky program on August 18. Bring a blanket and lay beneath the stars during a Night Sky program. Explore constellations, mythology, the importance of dark skies, and much more. This is a great opportunity to watch the Perseids meteor shower. Telescopes will be available for this event, which begins at 9 p.m. Mountain time. Meet at the Nature Center for an introduction before carpooling to the viewing location. A Nebraska park entry permit is required.
