Keith County: your summer fun headquarters
From fun-filled days at Lake McConaughy to a host of activities and events beyond the beach, we offer it all.
Independence Day Fireworks in Ogallala
Ogallala is known for hosting one of the best local fireworks displays between Denver and Omaha, and we're making America's 250th Anniversary an extra special occasion.
The free display kicks off at 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, 2026 at Western Diamonds Sports Complex north of Ogallala. The event is sponsored by the Keith County Chamber with the support of generous local donors.
(Note: Fireworks are always prohibited at Lake McConaughy, but Western Diamonds is only a 15-minute driver from the lake.)
Race Weekend at Lake Mac Racetrack July 10-11
As the only track in the state dedicated strictly to Quarter Horses, Lake Mac Racetrack in Ogallala serves as a major hub for racing in western Nebraska.
There will be eight live races between Friday, July 10 and Saturday, July 11, with live music, a free kids activity zone, food trucks and more fun. Fans will have the opportunity to meet jockeys at Morning Thunder: Jockeys & Java on Saturday morning.
Lake Mac Racetrack is located just off I-80, southwest of Walmart. Lake Mac Casino offers a free shuttle to and from Ogallala hotels.
Ogallala Round-Up Rodeo July 25-26
The Wild West lives on in the Cowboy Capital, as the Ogallala Round-Up Rodeo continues its 110-year tradition July 25-26, beginning at 7:00 p.m. each night.
Enjoy thrilling rodeo performances, mutton bustin' for the kids, and a full lineup of Keith County Fair activities later that week.
Kites & Castles July 25
Lake Mac's favorite event - Kites & Castles - is FREE to join or watch. You just need a Nebraska state park permit to enter the park. Grab one online at outdoornebraska.gov or stop by the Visitors Center (just a quarter mile south of Kingsley Dam, Hwy 61). Registration begins at 11:00 a.m. Contact the Keith County Chamber for more information.
Live Music at Sounds on the Square
Mark your calendars for another great summer of FREE LIVE MUSIC at Rendezvous Square in Ogallala. Bring a lawn chair and your friends for these free concerts Friday nights:
June 5 - Eben Rosentrater
June 19 - Rascal Martinez
July 3 - The Talbott Brothers (shown)
July 17 - Sam Zitek
Concerts take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Concessions will be available.
Who has the best ice cream on the lake?
It might be Lakefront Express across from Martin Bay. But it could also be Eagle Canyon Hideaway on the south side. We hear Admiral's Cove Resort at Lemoyne has some delicious frozen treats, too. Honestly, you'd better try them all just to be sure!
(Photo Credits: Beach Scene - Visit Nebraska, Racehorses - Bob Albert, Rodeo - Lauren Sherwood/Lazy LD Photography, Ice Cream - Blake McConaughy)