Neligh-Oakdale, Elkhorn Valley Bands Marching At State Fair

Antelope County will have two bands marching through the Nebraska State Fairgrounds in the coming weeks as both Neligh-Oakdale and Elkhorn Valley prepare for their performances.

Neligh-Oakdale will march on Friday, Aug. 22, in Grand Island while Elkhorn Valley will be there Wednesday, Aug. 27. Both marching bands participated last year as well.

View the parade route map 

"It's really great to have a performance to be ready for after only six days of school," Neligh-Oakdale band director Nate Metschke said. "The students are really focused, and I hear and see improvement in playing, marching and posture every day. I hope everyone enjoyed hearing/seeing the band march around town in the mornings."

Neligh-Oakdale will kick off the parade route on Aug. 22 at 10 a.m. as the first band of the day. Elkhorn Valley will march at 10:45 a.m. on Aug. 27. Tammy Marshall directs the Neligh-Oakdale color guard for Neligh-Oakdale. Brenda Gale directs the Elkhorn Valley band.

Metschke said Neligh-Oakdale students will leave for Grand Island at 6:30 a.m. on Aug. 22. Students will need to bring money for lunch/snacks and for any activities/entertainment they partake in at the fair. Students will wear their white "timber shirt" with jean shorts and comfortable shoes. The bus will leave for NOHS at 1:15 p.m.