Hedgestock Invites Bands, Campers for First Time | Festival Preview

It seems that ever since 1984, when Uncle Joe purchased the farm, he has been cutting down trees. Some trees become cages, others fences, but overall, Joe thinks they are the "hedgie" kind.

So when members of the local band Funk Trek, including Joe's nephew Tom Murnan, needed a name for the first-ever, one-day festival on the farm, Hedgestock stuck. Perhaps Joe will be cutting down one or two more trees for the giant bonfire that will accompany music from Funk Trek, Kris Lager Band, Midland Band, Solid Gold and Big Burn.

Painters, fire dancers, hula hoopers and entertainers alike are encouraged to attend this Saturday starting at 3 p.m., but most if not all festivalgoers will fall under the umbrella term of campers. For those planning ahead, presale tickets are available for $15, but they will also be sold for $20 at the door.

The drive is approximately 45 minutes from both Lincoln and Omaha to the farm at 5600 County Road G in Nebraska City.

There are a few ground rules, Murman said: The farm is private property — be respectful of the land; start arriving around 3 p.m. to set up camp, and stay as long as Sunday at 3 p.m.; and bring your own beer and food, though a pizza vendor will be serving pie.

Final rule: Get hedgie.

Krystal Sidzyik is a Hear Nebraska intern. She desperately wishes she could attend Hedgestock. Reach her at krystals@hearnebraska.org.