Missouri River Outdoor Expo honors America 250th

The Missouri River Outdoor Expo at Ponca State Park will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary Sept. 19-20 with more than 100 outdoor activities and a special lineup of Nebraska history speakers.

The free, family-friendly event will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. To celebrate America’s 250, Voices of Nebraska will run from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day and feature eight Nebraska Humanities speakers highlighting the state’s unique history.

Outdoor activities will include wildlife encounters, fishing, kayaking, archery, camping skills, cooking demonstrations, contests, rock climbing, shooting sports, dog shows, craftsmanship demonstrations, local entertainment and more. Food and goods vendors also will be available.

Those with a competitive spirit can sign up for:

• Bob’s Epic Burger Challenge, an 11-ounce burger and mountain of fries eating competition. Space is limited to 12. Pre-registration is required.
• Barbecue Challenge, a grilling competition with poultry, pork, beef and wild game categories. No pre-registration is required.
• Youth Duck Calling competition, where those age 15 and younger will compete for a chance to win duck decoys. Registration is required.

Attendees also at the event will be eligible to enter a youth into the Youth Half-Price Lifetime Permit Drawing program, which gives Nebraska youth ages 15 and younger the opportunity to purchase a lifetime hunt, fish and other permits for half price. The online entry form will be available during the event.

For competition registration, volunteer sign-up and more information, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov and search for “Missouri River Outdoor Expo.” The complete event schedule will be posted there closer to the event date.

A vehicle park entry permit is required to enter the park. Purchase one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at the park entrance.