Menu
For 105 years, Oregon Trail Days has brought generations of Gering families together — through parades, music, laughter, and shared memories. As Nebraska’s oldest continuous celebration, it represents the heart and resilience of our community. When you volunteer, you aren’t just helping with an event — you are honoring those who built this tradition and ensuring it continues for the next generation. It’s a chance to stand alongside your neighbors, serve with pride, and be part of something that truly defines Gering. This is your opportunity to help create something memorable for residents and visitors alike.
Oregon Trail Days is growing — and we’re building a volunteer program that reflects the pride and spirit of our community.
Why Volunteer?
Time Commitment
Who Can Volunteer?
Ready to Get Involved?
Complete our Volunteer Registration Form and a committee member will contact you with available shifts and assignments.
Car Show (Friday Evening – Downtown)
The Oregon Trail Days Car Show is held Friday evening in downtown Gering. Volunteers assist with participant coordination and event operations before and during the show.
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors and communicating clearly with vehicle owners and participants.
Chili Cook-Off (Saturday Afternoon – Five Rocks Amphitheater / Kahuna Park)
The Chili Cook-Off is held Saturday afternoon at Five Rocks Amphitheater and Kahuna Park. Volunteers are needed to assist with event operations before, during, and after the competition.
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors, interacting with contestants and the public, and assisting in a fast-paced event environment.
Concert at Five Rocks (Saturday Evening)
The Oregon Trail Days Concert is held Saturday evening at Five Rocks Amphitheater. This event requires a large volunteer team to assist with event operations and guest services.
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors, standing for extended periods, and assisting large crowds.
Craft Show (Saturday & Sunday – Legion Park)
The Craft Show is held Saturday and Sunday at Legion Park and features vendors offering handmade and specialty items. Volunteers assist with vendor coordination and overall event operations throughout the weekend.
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors, interacting with vendors and the public, and assisting with general event logistics.
Food Fair (Friday Evening – Downtown & Plaza)
The Food Fair is held Friday evening in downtown Gering and includes food vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in the Plaza area. This event requires volunteers to assist with vendor coordination and overall event operations.
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors, communicating with vendors and city staff, and assisting with logistics in a busy downtown environment.
Kiddie Parade (Friday Morning – Legion Park)
The Kiddie Parade is held Friday morning at Legion Park and features local children participating in a fun, community-focused parade event.
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors and assisting families and young children.
Mud Volleyball (Saturday – Five Rocks Amphitheater)
Mud Volleyball is held Saturday at Five Rocks Amphitheater and requires volunteers throughout the day to assist with event operations.
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors in potentially muddy conditions and assisting participants and spectators throughout the day.
Old Settlers Events (Friday & Saturday – Gering Civic Center)
Old Settlers events are held Friday and Saturday at the Gering Civic Center, including a luncheon on Saturday following the Parade. Volunteers assist with event support and guest services.
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers should be comfortable working indoors and assisting guests in a welcoming, organized environment.
Oregon Trail Days Parade (Saturday Morning)
The Oregon Trail Days Parade is held Saturday morning. Parade line-up begins at 8:00 a.m., with the parade starting at 10:00 a.m. The route begins at the High School and proceeds down 10th Street.
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors, standing for extended periods, and communicating clearly with participants and the public.
Parking Attendants – Five Rocks Amphitheater
(Thursday & Friday Evenings | All Day Saturday)
Parking attendants are needed to assist with vehicle flow and guest safety during Oregon Trail Days events at Five Rocks Amphitheater.
Coverage is required:
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers must be 18 years or older and comfortable working outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions, afternoon shifts can experience extreme heat.
Safe Ride (Friday Night & Saturday – 10 p.m. through 1:30 a.m.)
Safe Ride provides transportation to their final destination for individuals who should not be driving. Volunteers use their own vehicles to provide safe, responsible rides during Oregon Trail Days festivities.
Coverage is needed:
Volunteer duties may include:
Volunteers must have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a reliable vehicle. A calm, patient attitude and good judgment are essential.
Oregon Trail Days celebrates our heritage, our community, and our future. When you volunteer, you’re not just helping with an event — you’re strengthening a tradition.
We can’t wait to work alongside you.
Oregon Trail Days operates through dedicated event committees and chairs. Volunteers may be assigned within specific committees to best match interests and skills.
