2024 Event Photo Galleries

MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27

Mannheim Steamroller brought their signature sound and festive energy to the Heartland Events Center, delivering an unforgettable performance that captivated the audience from start to finish. With their iconic blend of classical music and modern rock, the group filled the venue with holiday magic and powerful visuals. The crowd was on their feet, and the atmosphere was electric—truly a standout night in Grand Island!

FLATWATER FRACAS

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21

The Flatwater Fracas Wrestling Tournament brought intense competition and high energy to the Heartland Events Center, as teams from all across Nebraska poured in to battle it out on the mats. The venue was packed with athletes, coaches, and enthusiastic fans, creating an electric atmosphere that showcased the strength of Nebraska's wrestling community. It was a full house and a proud moment for Grand Island to host such a premier event.

CHRIS JANSON FEATURING JADYNCE JEAN

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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2

The Heartland Events Center was absolutely buzzing as Chris Janson and Jaydnce Jean lit up the stage with a show that was pure fire from start to finish. Chris brought his trademark high-octane energy, ripping through hits that had the whole crowd singing and stomping along, while Jaydnce Jean opened the night with a soulful, magnetic performance that set the tone perfectly. It wasn’t just a concert—it was a party, a celebration, and a reminder of just how alive live music can feel. Grand Island showed up big, and these two delivered a night to remember.

I MOM SO HARD

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26

The Heartland Events Center was roaring with laughter in October, as Nebraska natives Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley brought their hit comedy show, #IMOMSOHARD, to Grand Island for a night of unfiltered, side-splitting fun. Their “Ladies’ Night” show delivered exactly what fans came for—relatable mom truths, hilarious storytelling and the kind of comedic chemistry only lifelong friends can pull off. From parenting fails to everyday chaos, the duo had the crowd in stitches, proving once again that laughter is the best therapy for moms everywhere. It was more than just a comedy show—it was a celebration of motherhood, friendship and the shared hilarity of trying to keep it all together.

Imagination Bacon

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 9

The 9th-Annual Imagination Bacon & Brews for Books event transformed the Heartland Events Center into a lively celebration of community, flavor and philanthropy. Hosted by the Heartland United Way, the sold-out evening welcomed 800 guests who indulged in savory bacon bites, pork sandwiches, and a variety of local craft beers, wines and spirits—all while supporting early childhood literacy through the Imagination Library program. The night featured spirited live and silent auctions, live music by Tim Zach, and a special moment when Tom and Kim Dinsdale unveiled the 22nd vehicle they’ve generously donated to the United Way. With proceeds benefiting over 3,500 children across Hall, Hamilton, Howard, and Merrick Counties, the event was a flavorful and heartfelt success that left attendees smiling—and maybe a little full.

4H Shooting Sports National Championships

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FRIDAY, JUNE 21 - FRIDAY, JUNE 28

The 2024 4-H Shooting Sports National Championships brought more than 700 young marksmen and markswomen from across the country to Grand Island. Hosted at the Heartland Public Shooting Park and the Heartland Events Center, the event featured nine competitive disciplines, including recurve and compound archery, small bore rifle and pistol, air rifle and pistol, shotgun, muzzleloading and hunting skills.

The Heartland Events Center served as the hub for opening and closing ceremonies, award presentations, and team photos, fostering a sense of community and celebration among participants. Beyond the competitions, attendees enjoyed social events like the Teen Social in downtown Grand Island and a silent auction, adding to the camaraderie and spirit of the championships. The event not only showcased the talents of youth shooters but also highlighted Grand Island's commitment to supporting national youth programs and community engagement.

Nebraska Truck Driving Championships

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THURSDAY, MAY 30 - SATURDAY, JUNE 1

The 2024 Nebraska Truck Driving Championships rolled into Grand Island turning the Heartland Events Center at Fonner Park into a showcase of precision, professionalism, and pride. Hosted by the Nebraska Trucking Association, the event brought together the state's top accident-free drivers to compete in a rigorous four-part challenge: a written exam on safety regulations, a vehicle inspection, a personal interview with law enforcement and a demanding driving skills course across multiple truck classes.

Among the standout performers was Rob Jensen of FCC, who swept the Step Van class, earned the Bucky Buchholtz Top Driver Award, and was honored with the Jerry Wessel Award for professionalism and industry knowledge . The event was not only a celebration of trucking excellence but also a testament to the dedication and skill that keep Nebraska's roads safe and commerce moving.

Grand Island Senior High Graduation

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SUNDAY, MAY 12

The Heartland Events Center was filled with pride and celebration as Grand Island Senior High honored 536 graduating seniors in a standing-room-only ceremony. The event featured heartfelt speeches, including one by senior Lauren Brown, who emphasized unity and the beauty of diversity, encouraging her classmates to "work with the people in the room to make a difference."

Superintendent Matt Fisher also addressed the graduates, reminding them that while mistakes are part of life's journey, learning from them is key to achieving future goals. Musical performances by the GISH Band and Chamber Singers added to the festive atmosphere, making the day a memorable milestone for the Class of 2024.

CCC Graduation

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FRIDAY, MAY 10

The Heartland Events Center in Grand Island was filled with pride and celebration as Central Community College (CCC) honored its graduating students. The morning ceremony recognized 216 graduates from the Grand Island campus, while the Hastings campus held its commencement later that afternoon. The event featured inspiring speeches, including one from CCC-Grand Island alumnus and Assistant Director of the Hall County Department of Corrections, Quinn Webb.

Among the graduates was Leilanie Clemens, who expressed her determination to continue pursuing her goals, and veteran Caden Duncan, who reflected on the relief and accomplishment of completing his degree. In total, 511 students graduated across CCC's three campuses, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.

Spring Dazzle Craft & Vendor Show

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SATURDAY, MAY 4

The Heartland Events Center hosted the annual Spring Dazzle Craft & Vendor Event, drawing a lively crowd eager to explore a diverse array of local and regional artisans. Held in the Fonner Park Concourse, the event featured more than 100 vendors offering handmade jewelry, custom home décor, gourmet foods, and unique gifts, all set against the festive backdrop of the Kentucky Derby.

Attendees enjoyed browsing the booths, discovering one-of-a-kind treasures and supporting small businesses in a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere. The Spring Dazzle event continues to be a highlight of the season, offering something for everyone and showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the Heartland.

Fonner Park Car Show

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SATURDAY, MAY 4

The 33rd-Annual Fonner Park Car Show revved up excitement at the Heartland Events Center. Hosted by Knucklehead Garage, this highly-anticipated event showcased a stunning array of classic cars, hot rods, and custom builds, attracting automotive enthusiasts from across the region.

Attendees marveled at the meticulously restored vehicles, each telling its own story of craftsmanship and passion. Beyond the gleaming chrome and polished paint, the event also served a noble cause—raising funds for local first responders, underscoring the community's commitment to supporting those who serve. With its rich history and dedication to both automotive excellence and community service, the Fonner Park Car Show continues to be a standout event on Grand Island's calendar.

Harlem Globetrotters

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27

The Harlem Globetrotters brought their signature blend of basketball wizardry and family-friendly entertainment to the Heartland Events Center. Fans were treated to high-flying dunks, dazzling trick shots and interactive moments that kept the crowd engaged throughout the evening. The Globetrotters' charismatic players, including Wham Middleton, showcased their skills and humor, ensuring a memorable experience for attendees of all ages. With a mix of athleticism and comedy, the event highlighted the team's longstanding tradition of entertaining audiences worldwide.

Heartland Boxing Championship

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SATURDAY, MARCH 23

The Heartland Boxing Championship electrified the Heartland Events Center, showcasing a night of intense competition and local pride. Presented by Double R Boxing, the event featured a dynamic lineup of four professional bouts, including the headline match where local standout Oliver “El Sicario” Rivera secured a majority decision victory over seasoned veteran Mark Stoddard.

Other notable fighters included Brandon “El Bebe” Diaz-Campos, who delivered a stunning second-round knockout, and Jerome Clark, who defeated Tre Dobbins with a first-round TKO. The evening also spotlighted rising talents like Isaac Gleason and Uhlices Avelino-Reyes, adding to the event's excitement. With a packed arena and a spirited atmosphere, the 2024 Heartland Boxing Championship was a testament to the growing boxing scene in Nebraska.

Triple Crown Vendor Show

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SATURDAY, MARCH 2 - SUNDAY, MARCH 3

The 2024 Triple Crown Vendor Show at the Heartland Events Center was a vibrant celebration of local craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit. The event featured a diverse array of more than 100 vendors offering handmade jewelry, home décor, gourmet foods, and unique gifts. Attendees enjoyed browsing the booths, discovering one-of-a-kind treasures, and supporting small businesses in a festive, community-focused atmosphere. The Triple Crown Vendor Show continues to be a highlight of the season, offering something for everyone and showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the Heartland.

Iron Horse Motorcycle Show

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SATURDAY, MARCH 2

The Iron Horse Motorcycle Show revved into Grand Island on March 2, drawing motorcycle enthusiasts from across the region for a day of chrome, horsepower and community spirit. The event featured a diverse array of custom motorcycles, vintage classics, and cutting-edge designs, showcasing the craftsmanship and passion of local and regional builders.

Attendees had the opportunity to explore various vendor booths offering motorcycle gear, accessories, and memorabilia, while enjoying live music and food options that added to the festive atmosphere. The Iron Horse Motorcycle Show continues to be a highlight for motorcycle aficionados, offering a platform to celebrate the culture and camaraderie of the riding community.

Nebraska SkillsUSA Middle School Championship

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FRIDAY, MARCH 1

The 2024 SkillsUSA Nebraska Middle School Championship brought together young students eager to showcase their skills in both technical and leadership competitions. The event featured a diverse range of contests, including Applied Math, Bridge Building, Extemporaneous Speaking, Job Skill Demonstration, and Robotics, among others.

These competitions not only tested students' abilities but also emphasized the importance of career awareness and leadership development. With more than 1,600 students participating across various events, the championship highlighted the growing interest and investment in career and technical education at the middle school level. The top performers earned the opportunity to advance to the SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Championships in April, marking a significant milestone in their educational journeys.

Rodeo Grand Island

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24

Rodeo Grand Island took center stage at the Heartland Events Center, delivering a high-energy showcase of PRCA-sanctioned rodeo action. Hosted by Sutton Rodeo, the event featured thrilling competitions in bareback riding, saddle bronc, bull riding, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing and tie-down roping.

Notable performances included Jason Wilson's 84-point ride in bareback riding, Thayne Elshere's 85.5-point saddle bronc ride and Deb Cox's 12.95-second barrel racing run. The event was a hit with fans of all ages, offering fast-paced entertainment and showcasing the skills of top rodeo athletes.

Nebraska Cheer & Dance Championships

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17

The 2024 Nebraska State Cheer and Dance Championships lit up the Heartland Events Center, drawing hundreds of high school and middle school teams from across the state. Organized by the Nebraska Coaches Association, the event featured spirited competitions in various categories, including cheerleading, pom, jazz, hip-hop and high kick.

Teams showcased their athleticism and creativity in front of enthusiastic crowds, with each session culminating in an awards ceremony recognizing the top performers. The championships not only highlighted the talent and dedication of Nebraska's student-athletes but also fostered a sense of community and school pride.

Heartland Hoops Classic

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10

The 2024 Heartland Hoops Classic showcased a thrilling day of high school basketball with five exciting matchups. In a closely contested opener, Grand Island Central Catholic edged out Elkhorn Valley 46–44. Omaha Concordia narrowly defeated Doniphan-Trumbull 48–46, while Crete secured a 68–58 victory over Ogallala. Papillion-La Vista South overcame Kearney 64–57, and Gretna dominated Pembroke Hill with a 66–51 win.

The day's highlight featured Bellevue West's dramatic 62–60 triumph over Sunrise Christian Academy, with Jaden Jackson leading the charge. The event provided fans with a unique opportunity to witness interclass matchups not typically seen during the regular season.

Gone Too Soon: The Michael Jackson Experience

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 27

"Gone Too Soon: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience" delivered an electrifying tribute to the King of Pop. This immersive show featured a talented tribute artist accompanied by a live band, choreographed dancers, and authentic costumes, recreating the magic of Michael Jackson's iconic performances.

Fans were treated to renditions of classic hits like "Billie Jean," "Thriller," "Beat It," "Man in the Mirror," and "Black or White," all enhanced by state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and video presentations. The evening captured the spirit and essence of experiencing a Michael Jackson concert, leaving the audience singing along and celebrating the legacy of one of the greatest American artists of all time.

2EXTREME MONSTER TRUCK SHOW

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 20

The 2Xtreme Monster Truck Show delivered an action-packed afternoon of high-flying stunts and family-friendly entertainment. The event featured a thrilling lineup of monster trucks, including the legendary Dennis Anderson behind the wheel of the iconic King Sling. Fans were treated to heart-pounding performances as these massive machines soared over ramps, crushed cars, and showcased their raw power.

The excitement was amplified by freestyle motocross riders performing daring aerial tricks, adding an extra layer of adrenaline to the show. Attendees had the opportunity to get up close during the pre-show pit party, meeting drivers and exploring the trucks. For the ultimate thrill, a limited number of fans experienced the ride of a lifetime with Dennis Anderson in the King Sling, feeling the ground shake beneath them as they raced around the track. The 2Xtreme Monster Truck Show in Grand Island was a memorable event for fans of all ages, combining speed, skill, and spectacle in a way only monster trucks can deliver

AMA Arenacross Championship Series

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 12 - SATURDAY, JANUARY 13

The 2024 AMA Arenacross Championship Series revved into Grand Island on January 12–13, lighting up the Heartland Events Center with high-octane indoor motocross action. As Round 5 of the national tour, the event featured both professional and amateur riders battling it out on a custom-built, technical track designed to test speed, agility, and endurance.

The weekend kicked off with a pre-race track party, followed by intense heat races, LCQs, and main events across multiple classes, including the AX Pro and AX Pro-Am divisions. The tight confines of the arena demanded precision and finesse, making for thrilling racing that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Riders competed for valuable points in the championship standings, with the top performers earning the opportunity to advance to the AMA Arenacross Amateur National Championship in Guthrie, Oklahoma, later that month. For a glimpse into the excitement of the event, you can watch the official recap video below.