By Allison Peck
Listen to the full interview with Bob Lantis on our Kubota Podcast
North Platte, Neb. - With 133 days to go until NebraskaLand Days returns to North Platte, Executive Director Bob Lantis says planning is already in high gear — starting with the annual Buffalo Bill Birthday Bash fundraiser later this month.
The Bash is set for Friday, Feb. 28 at the D&N Event Center.
NASCAR theme set for Feb. 28 bash
This year’s Buffalo Bill Birthday Bash will feature a “Talladega Nights” NASCAR theme, with Buffalo Bill Cody expected to make an appearance in a NASCAR-style outfit as part of the celebration.
Lantis said the bash is held in recognition of Buffalo Bill’s birthday — Feb. 26 — and is designed as both a community event and a major fundraiser.
“It helps raise money for NebraskaLand Days and facility improvements,” Lantis said, adding that the organization is working toward “big projects” in the future and the bash is one way to build support.
What to expect: auctions, live music, and a silent auction
Lantis said the evening will begin with doors opening at 6 p.m., followed by a brief program at approximately 7 p.m. The event then moves into a live auction, with roughly 14 to 15 major items expected.
Items mentioned during the interview included golf trips, utility trailers, football ticket packages, and more. After the live auction, the venue will be adjusted for entertainment.
Live music will follow from the Dylan Bloom Band, with hospitality areas opening during the concert portion of the night. A silent auction will also be available, remaining open until around 10 p.m.
Tickets and age requirement
The Buffalo Bill Birthday Bash is a ticketed, 21-and-over event, with tickets set at $60. Lantis said the ticket includes admission, a meal, and drink tickets, plus access to complimentary hospitality service once booths open, along with a cash bar option.
He also hinted the organization may roll out additional promotions or announcements ahead of the bash, adding organizers anticipate a strong crowd this year.
NebraskaLand Days 2026: rodeo and concert lineup
Looking ahead to June, Lantis said the 62nd annual NebraskaLand Days will include four nights of PRCA rodeo and two nights of country music, featuring Grammy Award-winning talent.
He highlighted **Treaty Oak Revival performing on Friday, June 26, and Zach Top on Saturday, June 27, noting Top recently earned a Grammy.
Reminder: buy tickets directly from the official site
Lantis urged fans to purchase event tickets through the official NebraskaLandDays.com website or directly through the NebraskaLand Days office, warning that secondary ticket sellers can mean higher prices and possible entry issues at the gate.
“It happens every year,” he said, adding that going through the official site is the best way to ensure tickets are valid and trouble-free.
With the February fundraiser approaching and summer events already taking shape, Lantis said the organization is excited to welcome the community out to support NebraskaLand Days — and kick off the countdown to June.