Enjoy events in state parks this May

Spend some time this spring in Nebraska’s state parks. During May, a variety of events are planned for those of all ages and interests.

Don’t forget to purchase a vehicle park entry permit to enter the state parks. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

May 17, however, is the one day this year when a park entry permit is not required. Free Fishing and Park Entry Day, held annually in Nebraska on the Saturday preceding Memorial Day weekend, means anyone can explore outdoor opportunities at any Nebraska state park, state recreation area or state historical park. Anglers must observe all fishing regulations. Camping, lodging and all other user fees still apply at state park areas. Entrance fees for museums at state historical parks and the entrance fee at the Schramm Education Center remain in effect. Activities are planned at several parks for May 17.

Other park events in May:

Fort Atkinson SHP to host living history

Travel 200 years back in time and experience history on the Great Plains at Fort Atkinson State Historical Park. Living history events will occur from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 3 and 4, then again May 31.

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. There will also be potato planting demonstrations. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the reenactors.

Admission to the visitor center is $5 for ages 13 and up, $1 for ages 3-12 and free for ages 2 and under.

For more information, contact the park at ngpc.fort.atkinson@nebraska.gov or 402-468-5611.

Sip Nebraska returning to Mahoney SP

The 12^th Annual Sip Nebraska Festival is returning to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park on May 9 and 10.

Sip Nebraska is an opportunity to explore and enjoy wineries, breweries and distilleries from across Nebraska.

Enjoy unlimited tastings, live music, shop artisan vendors, take a tour through food truck alley, play lawn games, and ride the trolley to enjoy the park.

Visit the calendar event entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov to purchase tickets or get more information.

To reserve cabins, lodge rooms, and campsites at Mahoney, call 402-882-2448.

Ponca SP to host Mother’s Day Buffet

Ponca State Park will host a Mother’s Day Buffet from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 11.

Dine indoors or on the back patio of the Resource and Education Center. The menu includes broasted chicken, glazed ham, cheesy potatoes, dinner roll, salad and dessert.

Call the park at 402-755-2284 to make required reservations. The cost is $21.95 for adults, $12 for ages 5 to 12, and free for ages 4 and under.