Family events in Kearney, NE

Wrap up summer at the YMCA with complimentary root beer floats, lawn games, and additional activities for a relaxed, friendly get-together.

Community Fishing Night brings hands-on angling to Fort Kearny State Recreation Area at Lake #6. Hosted by Nebraska Game and Parks, these community fishing events are offered across the state each spring and summer and are geared toward people of all ages who are new to fishing or getting back into it. The Family Fishing Trailer will be on site with loaner rods and reels, bait, and free fishing instruction, and Fishing Instructors will be available to share tips and answer questions. Participants ages 16 and older need a fishing license, and a valid state park entry permit is required for events held at state park areas.

Join the Harmon Park Activity Center for a Chess Tournament with multiple sections for both kids and adults. Sections include Scholastic Rookie (K through 5th grade), Scholastic Junior (6th through 8th grade), and Scholastic Senior (9th through 12th grade), plus a Casual Section for adults looking to get comfortable with tournament play. There is also a USCF section for experienced players, and you’ll need a current USCF Member ID when signing up. Registration prices are listed for both Scholastic/Casual and the USCF section, and the schedule includes a lunch break during the day.

Hosted at Buffalo County Fairgrounds, Roadway Heroes invites visitors to get up close with the vehicles that keep the community running and meet the people who keep everyone safe and connected. Enjoy hands-on fun like climbing aboard and honking horns, and take a playful shot at dunking the galactic bad guys. Free-will donations are welcomed to support the Kearney Area Children's Museum.

This free youth event offers hands-on learning about waterfowl, an inflatable archery range that will operate only if wind and weather allow, a rubber duck giveaway, and free digital photo downloads to capture the experience.

Disney’s Frozen comes to life on stage in a family-friendly musical adventure. Follow Anna as she searches for her sister Elsa, whose powers have trapped the kingdom in eternal winter. You can expect beloved characters like Olaf, Kristoff, and Sven, plus favorite songs including “Let It Go.” The production features stunning sets, dazzling costumes, and a heartwarming story about love, courage, and sisterhood.

Disney’s Frozen comes to life on stage at the Merryman Performing Arts Center. Join Anna on an epic journey to find her sister Elsa, while audiences meet favorites like Olaf, Kristoff, and Sven and sing along to hit songs including “Let It Go.” This family-friendly musical includes paid tickets for all ages, with children under 3 not admitted and no lap tickets. E-tickets will be issued by Crane River Theater and can be shown on a mobile device or printed for entry.

Bring your pup for the 19th Annual Puppy Plunge for an evening of pool time. Pre-registration is required, and participating dogs must have a current rabies vaccination and DHLP shot, with proof available on-site. There are set time slots for different dog weight groups, with up to 40 dogs per slot, and proceeds benefit the Kearney Area Animal Shelter and the Kearney Dog Park.