The days may be shorter, but the season is brighter—local events are lighting up Keith County with all sorts of fun and celebration.
Merry Prairie Christmas at the Mansion on the Hill museum returns Sunday, Dec. 21 with an opportunity to step back in time and experience an old-fashioned holiday!
Tour the Mansion, One-Room Schoolhouse and O'Brien-Lute house, all decked out in period-authentic Christmas decor.
The fun will include hayrack rides, hot cocoa, cider and cookies, cookie decorating, a kids "make and take" activity, and a visit with Santa.
Admission is $2. The event is hosted by the Keith County Historical Society Sunday, Dec. 21 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
There’s plenty of festive fun happening at Ogallala’s hometown brewery – Second Chapter Brewing. Play Holiday Roadtrip Music Bingo Thursday, Dec. 18 beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19 is Ugly Sweater Night from 4 to 9 p.m. with the Shome Slice Pizza truck on hand from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Bubba’s Smoked and Loaded truck will be at the brewery Saturday, Dec. 20 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Festive winter brews on tap include Peppermint Imperial Stout, Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout, and Dewey Decimator (Baltic Porter).
Lake Mac Casino has GREAT bands lined up this month, including the Saddle Tramps and their energetic blend of rockabilly/punk. See them live on New Year's Eve beginning at 8:30 p.m. and Jan. 1 beginning at 8:00 p.m. Enjoy the music with no cover charge. All guests must be 21+.
Missing your favorite lake? It misses you, too! Lake McConaughy is a beautiful place to hike and birdwatch in winter.
Eagle Viewing season begins Saturday, Dec. 27 at the viewing facility near Lake Ogallala. Viewing continues each weekend from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Sunday, March 1.
There will be First Day Hikes at both Lake Ogallala SRA and Ash Hollow State Historical Park near Lewellen.
Lake Ogallala SRA: Meet at 10 a.m. Mountain Time at the Eagle Viewing Station for a scenic 3.5 mile, out-and-back hike on flat gravel. Keep an eye out along the way for birds and wildlife. Hot beverages and cookies will be served after the hike. Remember to bring warm clothing, appropriate footwear and water bottles. Dogs are welcome on a 6 foot leash.
Ash Hollow: Meet in the Overlook Trailhead parking lot at 10 a.m. on New Year’s Day. This moderate 1.2-mile hike starts off a bit steep and rocky, then tapers off to a nice, smooth hiking trail until you descend into the hollow again (strollers not recommended).
Feel free to join everyone at the Visitor’s Center after the hike (around noon) for a potluck lunch — bring a soup or side to share. Tableware will be provided.
A 2026 state park vehicle permit is required for entry at both parks.
Remember to check the Keith County event calendar for more events in the New Year!