Prairie Loft Springfest set for April 22

The second annual Prairie Loft Springfest will take place, rain or shine, from 1 to 6 p.m. April 22. Admission is free. The Prairie Loft Center for Outdoor & Agricultural Learning is located at 4705 DLD Road in Hastings.  Featured presentations include an appearance by the Nebraska dairy princess and a rain garden workshop.

Activities will include kids' events, a hands-on farm equipment display, guided nature hikes, pedal tractors, scavenger hunts, the Learning Barn, art and food vendors, and informational booths. Springfest visitors can meet the Nebraska Dairy Princess, plant vegetables to take home, and learn about farm safety, rain gardens, farm animals, agricultural heritage, and more. Vendors will offer food, clothing, jewelry, photography and art. Details, directions and other program information are available online at www.prairieloft.org.

The event is sponsored by CPI Farm Safety Program, Farm Credit Services of America and Energy Pioneer Solutions.  Event partners and exhibitors include Fairbanks International, Oregon Trail Equipment, Olson Farms, Rural Ranchers 4-H Club, Hastings Utilities, Midwest Dairy Association, Children's Museum of Central Nebraska, Head Start, and 26th Street Farm, among others.  Prairie Loft's mission is to teach agriculture appreciation, outdoor education, cultural traditions and the wise use of natural resources.