Major Events

Nebraska’s Big Rodeo put Burwell on the map long before there was a Calamus Lake.  Begun in 1921 on a patch of dirt outside of town, the Rodeo grew rapidly with the backing of savvy promoters and was soon drawing tourists from eastern Nebraska by the train load.

Through the years, nearly every professional rodeo champion who has pulled on a pair of boots has tramped through the historic arena of Burwell.  Almost a century later, visitors from all over the world continue to migrate to the small community of Burwell, Nebraska for a one-of-a-kind experience at Nebraska’s Big Rodeo.

From the classic events of rodeo such as Saddle Broncs, to wild and woolly action of the Wild Horse Race and Canadian Chuck Wagon Races, Nebraska’s Big Rodeo has something for everyone! Family members can visit 4-H animals and exhibits or get a sweet treat on the midway.  Address: 46710 L St, Burwell, NE 68823; Phone: (308) 346-5010.  www.nebraskasbigrodeo.com/

2022 Dates for the Rodeo are July 27-30.

County Fairs

• The Garfield County Fair is held in conjunction with the Nebraska’s Big Rodeo.  See hogs, cattle, and sheep as well as 4-H sewing, small engines, and baking exhibits along with much more.  Local youth will showcase their livestock and talents throughout the week.
• The Loup County Fair is held in nearby Taylor, Nebraska the first week of August.  The 2022 dates are August 11-13.  Highlights are the 4-H youth livestock and horse show, junior rodeo, talent show, and the Saturday night grand parade around the village square.

Junk Jaunt – Burwell is a featured stop on central Nebraska’s Junk Jaunt held the last weekend of September.  This is Nebraska’s original 300-plus mile yard sale.  Overall, there are 33 participating towns and approximately 450 vendors participated in 2021. The route takes you to the Nebraska Sandhills which provides excellent fall scenery.  For more information:  Nebraska’s Junk Jaunt, 1523 M Street, Suite 104, Ord, NE  68862.  Phone:  (308) 346-5151; e-mail: answers@junkjaunt.com; www.junkjaunt.com

Sandhill Crane Migration -- Spring Migration, late February – early April.  Experience the great migration! For eight weeks the fascinating Sandhill Crane Spring Migration happens in the heart of Nebraska. More than 80 percent of the world’s Sandhill Crane population converge on Nebraska’s Platte River. The Sandhill Cranes fly from southern wintering grounds to northern breeding grounds in Canada, Alaska & Siberia. They stop along the Platte to rest and gain body fat as they prepare for their journey. Fossils dating back nine million years have been discovered in Nebraska. Other wildlife such as Whooping Cranes, eagles, ducks, geese & shorebirds also migrate through Central Nebraska during this time. It is an enchanting sight. One that can only be truly appreciated in person. (description and photo courtesy of Kearney Visitors Bureau)  Burwell is roughly a 90-minute drive from viewing areas along the Platte River.