Arbor Day has America 250 theme

NEBRASKA CITY - The annual Arbor Day celebration in Nebraska City is recognizing America’s 250^th  birthday with the theme “stars, stripes and saplings.”

Events are scheduled Friday through Sunday April 24-26.

The children’s program is Friday at Arbor Lodge State park.

Saturday events include a home, craft and garden market, parade, live entertainment and plant bingo.

The Midwest Bloody Mary Championship is scheduled Sunday.

Here is NCTC’s press release

Nebraska City, the Home of Arbor Day, is preparing to celebrate the annual Arbor Day Festival with events taking place Friday through Sunday, April 24–26, 2026.

Originally proposed by Nebraska City resident J. Sterling Morton as a day dedicated to planting trees in what was then a largely treeless prairie, Arbor Day has grown into a global movement celebrated in all 50 states and in countries worldwide.
 In its birthplace, Nebraska City, the tradition continues each year with an annual festival honoring the lasting impact of trees on our environment and communities.

This year’s celebration carries a special focus as the nation approaches America’s 250th birthday, with the theme “Stars, Stripes & Saplings.”

 The theme highlights the role trees have played throughout American history—symbols of freedom, strength, and the roots of a growing nation—while honoring the legacy that began right here in Nebraska City.
Festival activities will begin earlier in the week with community volunteer efforts and will continue throughout the weekend with family-friendly events, educational programs, and celebrations across Nebraska City.

On Friday, Arbor Lodge State Historical Park will open its grounds to visitors as school groups gather for the annual Children’s Programs, which offer interactive environmental learning and entertainment. The day will also feature the annual Commemorative Tree Planting Ceremony, recognizing the Arbor Day Honoree and Tree Planter of the Year, continuing a tradition that celebrates individuals who embody the spirit of Arbor Day.

Saturday’s festivities will bring activity across the community with events including the Home, Craft & Garden Market, the Arbor Day Parade in downtown Nebraska City, and a variety of family-friendly entertainment throughout town. Visitors will also find community events, live entertainment, shopping, food vendors, Plant Bingo (new this year), and special activities hosted by local organizations and businesses.

 Sunday’s events will continue the celebration with the Best of the Midwest Bloody Mary Championship, additional community activities, local attractions, and opportunities to explore Nebraska City’s historic sites and orchards as the Arbor Day weekend wraps up.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy special programming at local museums and attractions, community markets, outdoor recreation, live music, and seasonal events hosted throughout the city.

As the birthplace of Arbor Day, Nebraska City invites visitors from across the region to come celebrate the holiday where it all began while honoring a tradition that continues to inspire generations to plant and care for trees.
A full schedule of events and festival details can be found at: www.nebraskacity.com/events/arborday