This fall, families across Nebraska will have the chance to unplug from their screens and connect with the outdoors as the Forest Festival Family Fun Night returns to Horning State Farm Demonstration Forest in Plattsmouth. The free event will take place on Friday, September 5, from 4 to 8 p.m. (admission closes at 7:30 p.m.).
The festival is designed to showcase the joy of outdoor exploration through hands-on activities and nature-based learning opportunities. Families can expect everything from tree climbing and hayrack rides to archery, trail hikes, facepainting, nature storytime, puppet shows, and even inflatable axe-throwing. To top it off, free hot dog meals will be available while supplies last.
Organizers say the goal is simple: bring people together in the forest for an evening of fresh air, fun, and learning.
“This event is about creating opportunities for families to step away from screens and experience nature together,” said Benjamin Bohall, Public Information Officer with the Nebraska Forest Service. “The Horning State Farm Demonstration Forest is a beautiful setting, and Forest Festival Family Fun Night gives people of all ages a chance to explore, learn, and simply have fun outdoors.”
The Horning State Farm Demonstration Forest itself has a unique place in Nebraska’s conservation history. Established as a living laboratory, it serves as one of the Nebraska Forest Service’s primary sites for forestry education, woodland management, and habitat demonstration. For decades, Horning has provided students, landowners, and the public with hands-on opportunities to learn about Nebraska’s forests and the important role they play in protecting soil, water, wildlife, and communities.
By hosting Forest Festival Family Fun Night at Horning, the Nebraska Forest Service continues that tradition—introducing families to the forest not only as a place for recreation, but also as a classroom and community gathering space.
No registration is required, and the event is completely free thanks to the Nebraska Forest Service and the Institute of Agricultural and Natural Resources.
Whether it’s climbing a tree for the first time, discovering a woodland trail, or learning a new outdoor skill, the Forest Festival Family Fun Night promises to be an evening of discovery and connection with nature.
