NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Get ready, North Platte! St. Patrick’s Church is rolling out two full days of food, games, music, and family fun for its annual Block Party this weekend.
The celebration kicks off Saturday, Sept. 13, from 6:30 to 11 p.m. with an evening designed for adults. Guests can enjoy live music from Kim Baxter, a free-will donation nacho bar prepared by parish volunteers, and a beer garden featuring local craft brews from Ape Ship. The party takes over the parking lot at 5th and Walnut streets, and everyone is welcome — no church membership required.
Sunday, Sept. 14, from noon to 3 p.m., shifts the spotlight to families. Kids can jump into bounce houses, play cornhole and pickleball, or join games run by local sports teams, while parents enjoy a barbecue luncheon featuring shredded beef, scalloped potatoes, green beans, and pies for $12 per plate or $40 per family. The street north of the church will be blocked off to create a safe, festive space for everyone.
Raffles add extra excitement this year. Prizes include $500 cash, gift cards, and coveted reserved pews for Christmas Mass. A special $50 raffle offers one lucky winner a full year of tuition at North Platte Catholic Schools — only 200 tickets will be sold.
“Part of our faith is where God makes us part of His family. And what do families do? They get together,” said Father Johnathan Sorensen. “This block party is a big old family party.”
Maddy Krebs, a member of the organizing committee, said, “We wanted to create something for everyone — adults, kids, families, and anyone in the community who wants to come out. Seeing people connect and have fun is what makes it all worth it.”
She added, “It takes a lot of planning and support from local businesses and volunteers, but the smiles on people’s faces make it all worth it. I love watching kids play and families enjoy the day together.”
The weekend format, introduced three years ago, gives adults a night out while keeping Sunday fun for families and children. Volunteers and parishioners spend months preparing, with support from local businesses that donate meals, prizes, and other essentials.
“Community is at the heart of this event,” Father Sorensen said. “Whether it’s sharing a meal, winning a raffle, or just laughing together, it’s about building relationships and celebrating together.”
Whether you’re there for the music, the nachos, or the chance to win free tuition, St. Patrick’s Block Party promises something for everyone — making it one of North Platte’s can’t-miss community events of the season.