14th Annual Oktoberfest Returns this Fall

Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 4th, when Kearney downtown transforms into a lively festival for its 14th Annual Oktoberfest. From noon until 6 pm, the heart of Kearney will be filled with the sounds of live music, laughter, and the cheers of friendly competition.

Make plans to join friends and neighbors for a day packed with entertainment and excitement, all while supporting local charities such as the Kearney Chamber of Commerce and the Kearney Enrichment Council.

The festivities begin early with the Oktoberfest 5K—Das Bier Run!—from 9 am to noon, inviting runners and walkers to kick off the day with energy. The celebration officially starts at noon, when the Mayor taps the first beer on the Main Stage, followed by a performance from the Studio 320 Dance Team. Throughout the afternoon, enjoy demonstrations from Limitless Karate and KHS Robotics, performances by the KHS Band & Cheer team, and music by The Brian McCarty Band from 1 to 3 pm. Later in the afternoon, The Craftsmen keep the momentum going with live tunes from 3 to 6 pm.

Meanwhile, Washington Street buzzes with activity. From 1 to 5 pm, compete in the Cornhole Tournament hosted by Dunns Guns and Dunns Flooring & Blinds, while 102.7FM KPGZ delivers classic hits throughout the day. Various Oktoberfest competitions—Barmaid Stein Carrying, Keg Toss, and Stein Holding—invite participants to showcase their strength and skills, with sign-ups available at the KEC vendor booth and the Old Firehouse.

All day long, enjoy the Knight's of Columbus Beer Tent offering beer, wine, and seltzers, along with delicious options from food trucks, local vendor booths, and kid-friendly activities like face painting and inflatables spread across Lion's Park and Washington Street. Oktoberfest 2025 in Kearney promises a memorable day of fun, camaraderie, and community spirit. This event is free to the public.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Enrichment Council Hosts Annual Gala “Hollywood Nights”

The Kearney Enrichment Council is hosting its annual gala on March 15th from 5 to 9 pm. This year’s theme is “Hollywood Nights” and it features an elegant dinner, an open bar, and thrilling silent and live auctions.

The gala’s purpose is to raise money for Kearney Enrichment Council's Emergency Assistance Program. This program provides vital support for rent and utilities to those facing challenging circumstances. Supporters’ generosity fuels their commitment to initiatives like Shop with a Cop, the Kearney Family Foundation, and community-focused programming.

“Hollywood Nights” will take place at the Annunciation Community Center, 701 N. Jefferson St., in Kearney. Doors will open at 5 pm. At 5:30 pm they will be serving cocktails & Hors d 'Oeuvres. 6 pm is dinner and music, with entertainment and the auctions to follow.

To learn more about the Gala, go to https://www.kearneyenrichmentcouncil.org/kec-gala

KPGZ News - Blake Magnusson contributed to this story.

Enrichment Council Brings Back Wine and Chocolate Tour

The Kearney Enrichment Council is partnering with Kearney businesses to bring small-production, boutique wines from around the world, with chocolates to match to Kearney. The Kearney Enrichment Council’s annual Wine & Chocolate Tour is returning on Saturday, February 8.

It's that time again to enjoy the annual Wine & Chocolate Tour. There are two options for tickets this year: General Admission gives event goers a 2025 wine glass. VIP Admission gives people a 2025 wine glass, plus an exclusive Wine and Chocolate Bag, 2 Extra Raffle Tickets, and a stainless-steel wine tumbler. Optional tickets on the trolley to travel around town in style are available.

“It's a great time to have a date night with your partner or spend time with your friends,” states the Enrichment Council’s Facebook invitation.

There are only 100 VIP tickets available. Tourists will have a punch card to take to each location. At the end of the night event, tourists turn in their card to try their luck at winning the raffle basket.

The Wine & Chocolate Tour is happening on Saturday, February 8. Registration opens at 3:30 pm, and trolleys depart at 4:30 pm. The tour begins and ends at the Old Firehouse Community Center, 106 S. Jefferson Street Kearney.

Wine and Chocolate tourists can find tickets at KearneyEnrichmentCouncil.org/wine-chocolate

KPGZ News - Blake Magnusson contributed to this story.

Magical Night Brings Lighted Parade to Kearney

It was a magical night in Kearney on Saturday, Dec. 14 as the Kearney Enrichment Council hosted the 4th annual lighted Christmas parade and Kearney’s Magical Night, and it brought out hundreds who filled downtown Kearney streets and businesses for the festivities.

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The Lighted Christmas Parade consisted of over 30 entries and drove up Washington Street while onlookers clapped and cheered on the festive vehicles. After the parade local businesses in the downtown area were open for family crafts and treats.

After the parade, Santa Claus stopped by City Hall to talk to the kids.

The float entries were judged, and participants won awards in the following categories:

• Santa Award: Remax Advantage

• Mrs. Claus Award: Kansas City Northland Jeepers

• Santa’s Sleigh Award: JP Equine Services from Hilltop Farms

• Grinch Award: Harris Excavating

The parade was televised by KMO-TV and 102.7FM KPGZ. The video can be watched on-demand on the 1027KearneyMO.com website by scrolling down to the “Welcome to KMO – TV” section. The parade video can also be viewed in the KMO-TV section of the KPGZ Mobile app and on the radio station’s Facebook and YouTube channels.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story.

KEC Announces Whiskey Tasting Tour

The Kearney Enrichment Council (KEC) is excited to announce the 2024 Kearney Whiskey Tasting Tour (KWTT) following the overwhelming success of their inaugural event. This year’s tasting tour is scheduled for August 24 at 5 pm, and promises an unforgettable evening of whiskey exploration and experience in the heart of downtown Kearney, Missouri, starting at the Old Firehouse, 106 S Jefferson St.

The KWTT is a unique walking tour designed to showcase a diverse range of whiskeys, highlighting the distinct flavors and craftsmanship behind each brand. The tour will also spotlight some of our cherished local businesses, offering participants an immersive experience that blends local culture with the rich history of whiskey distillation.

This year, we are thrilled to partner with Good Times Barber, D'Creamery, Blue Heron, Bea's Flowers, Three Birdies, and others, whose generous support helps bring this event to life. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample a variety of whiskeys, each selected for its unique character and story. For those looking to elevate their experience, we offer an exclusive VIP Tour, featuring rare and hard-to-find whiskey samplings.

Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast, eager to expand your palate, or simply curious about fine spirits, the KWTT offers something for everyone. The event is perfect for a night out with friends, where you can enjoy and learn about the intricate world of whiskey.

The KEC encourages participants to bring a Designated Driver (DD). While attendees enjoy the whiskey tour, DDs can relax at the Old Firehouse, enjoying complimentary coffee, snacks, and a fun movie courtesy of Jimmy John's of Kearney. This ensures everyone has a safe and enjoyable evening.

Due to the limited nature of the event, we anticipate a quick sell-out. Participants are encouraged to secure their spots early to avoid disappointment. The VIP Tour is particularly exclusive, with even fewer spots available.

To register and for more information, visit KearneyEnrichmentCouncil.org/WTT.

Brian Watts contributed to this story.