Holdrege’s Midsummer Festival has been named Outstanding Tourism Event (Established) at the 2026 Nebraska Tourism Awards Banquet, (Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce, Courtesy)
HOLDREGE — Holdrege’s Midsummer Festival has been named Outstanding Tourism Event (Established) at the 2026 Nebraska Tourism Awards Banquet, recognizing the festival’s impact, longevity, and contribution to Nebraska tourism.
The award was presented during the 2026 Nebraska Tourism Awards Banquet, where communities from across the state were honored for excellence in attracting visitors and enhancing local experiences.
Celebrating its 50th year in 2025, the Midsummer Festival (a Swedish Days Tradition) took place June 19 through 21 and welcomed an estimated 8,000 attendees. The milestone year marked a thoughtful evolution for the event, including an updated name designed to attract new visitors while continuing to honor Holdrege’s strong Swedish heritage. Organizers further strengthened that connection by aligning the celebration with the traditional day Sweden observes Midsummer.
For five decades, the festival has brought the community together while drawing visitors from across Nebraska and beyond.
Adam Hernandez, Communications and Event Coordinator at the Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce and lead organizer of the event for the past two years, accepted the award on behalf of the community.
“We were truly humbled just to be nominated alongside these outstanding events across Nebraska,” said Hernandez. “To hear Holdrege’s name announced as the winner was something we did not expect, being up against the Nebraska State Fair and the Seward 4th of July Celebration. This recognition really belongs to our sponsors, our committees, our volunteers, our businesses, and everyone who shows up year after year. The Midsummer Festival is a community effort, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who helps make it possible.”
The recognition highlights not only the success of the 50th anniversary celebration but also the sustained collaboration that has kept the event vibrant for generations. Each year, local businesses, organizations, and volunteers work together to ensure the festival continues to grow while preserving the traditions that make it unique.
As Holdrege looks ahead to the next chapter, the Midsummer Festival remains a cornerstone event that celebrates heritage, strengthens community connections, and invites visitors to experience all Phelps County has to offer. The dates for the 2026 Midsummer Festival are June 18-20, 2026.
About the Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce is to foster collaborative partnerships to build a thriving community through ongoing visibility, involvement, and support for Chamber members.
