It might not be a good idea to gather a bunch of people in a room to celebrate 2021, but the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has a way for you to ring in the new year safely. 

The Nebraska Game and Parks’ wants you to head outside. The ‘First Day Hikes’ event is happening across more than a dozen of its 76 parks the first weekend of 2021. The free event is a national promotion of hiking and appreciation for the natural beauties of Nebraska, according to Nebraska Game and Parks manager Margot Desrocher.

"It's a great start to the new year," she said. 

While the event usually features cocoa and group activities, this year it will focus on self-guided touring with fun surprises along the way. 

The snow on the ground may deter some but parks across the state continue to remain open, offering walking paths as covid-free activities for the winter. 

Nebraska state parks especially hope you take the time as it is their centennial. There will be more events for this planned in 2021.