Neligh Old Mill Days Features New Event, Location Changes

Neligh Old Mill Days are less than a month away, and there will be a few changes and additions to the annual event, including a change in location to several popular events.

Adam Mortensen, NYMC vice president, said there's been a bit of confusion on whether the Stop Light Drags would be taking place this year, but the event is on as planned. It will be at the Neligh Airport from 2-6 p.m. on July 4 as usual.

A new event added to Neligh's annual Fourth of July celebration is the bathtub races, which will take place following the turtle races by the Antelope County Courthouse. Three-person teams (ages 16 and older) will compete in a timed course for prizes.

"This is going to be a lot of fun," Mortensen said. "There are several towns around Neligh that have bathtub races, so we hope to have a lot of participants."

Mortensen the bathtub races is just one of many events that will be held near the courthouse. Both the kiddie tractor pull and turtle races also will be moved from Riverside Park to the courthouse. The tractor pull will follow the parade and the turtle races following. Mortensen said the events will not take place at the same time.

"We really wanted to keep everything centrally located for people," Mortensen said. "Logistically, it will work out really well to have nearly all events by the courthouse. We'll have one event right after the other and keep things fun for all ages."

Currently, the only events at the park will be the horseshoe tournament and annual Ducky Derby. Mortensen said the NYMC is still finalizing some events. Ducky Derby tickets are now on sale and can purchased from NYMC members.

Old Mill Days will not feature a demo derby this year, Mortensen said. All other events are on as scheduled, including the Thursday, July 3, street dance featuring Lonesome Walker Band and the Friday, July 4, fireworks at the airport.

Mortensen said the NYMC is celebrating its 42nd year of Old Mill Days and thanks the community for its support of the organization and event. Several members will be visiting businesses in the coming weeks seeking donations for the event.

Individuals who would like to make a donation can do so by contacting any member of the NYMC or by donating online via their website www.NelighYoungMensClub.com.

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