HASTINGS, NE — One of Hastings’ premiere summer events starts up tonight.

The Flatwater Music Festival runs from 6:00-11:00 tonight and from 1:00-11:00 tomorrow at the Prairie Loft just west of town. Executive Director Amy Sandeen says the festival is bigger than ever for its 15th year.

“This year we’ve added a family magic show, a ukulele jamboree, more food trucks, more vendors and hopefully perfect weather,” Sandeen said.

The event is in its second year back after taking 2020 off because of the pandemic.

“People said this festival feels like coming home. It’s a comfortable place, it’s a welcoming place," Sandeen said. "We want everyone to come share a good vibe, have a good time.”

Sandeen says part of the experience of the festival is being at the Prairie Loft, which is an outdoor and agricultural learning center.

“We’re here with the fireflies and the farm fields and the signing birds," Sandeen said. "It’s a setting like no other that we really like to showcase with the music and the fun in the foreground.”

In addition to live acoustic music, there will be food trucks, art vendors and beer from local breweries. Tickets are $10 per day.

Event Schedule