NORTH PLATTE, Neb.– Watching the Historical Canteen District be brought to life over the last couple of years has been amazing for the city of North Platte, and it feels only right that we showcase this vibrant revitalization while also focusing on the rich history behind its name.

With this in mind, the North Platte Visitors Bureau, Downtown Association, Lincoln Country Historical Museum, and North Platte Community Playhouse are pleased to announce the first annual North Platte Canteen Festival!

On December 17, 1941, North Platte residents gathered at the Union Pacific Depot because they heard that a troop train carrying their own boys would be coming through. When the train stopped, none of their boys were to be found, but instead, there were soldiers from Kansas. After a moment of disbelief, one person stepped forward and gave their presents to the troops and everyone else soon followed. The happiness expressed by the soldiers sparked an idea. The residents of North Platte and the surrounding communities followed the lead of their ancestors in World War I by opening a Canteen at the depot. This endeavor lasted for 54 months, involve 12,000 volunteers, and served more than 6 million servicemen and women during its duration. This was one of the largest volunteer efforts of World War II. When an impact like that has been made, it is important to keep that story and heritage alive.

This is why we would like to invite you to join us for the First Annual North Platte Canteen Festival this December. Honoring the selflessness that started so many Decembers ago by joining our neighbors in events highlighting the patriotism, volunteerism, and discovery of the World War II Canteen seems like the perfect way to not only spread holiday joy but to keep this amazing chapter of North Platte history alive!

The Christmas Canteen Festival will be held on December 18th, 2021

The celebration will kick off with ‘A Sentimental Musical Journey’ beginning at 2:00 pm that will take you through the music of the World War II era, celebrating a mistake that turned into one of history’s largest wartime volunteer efforts: The North Platte Canteen. Come get “In the Mood” with North Platte’s own Glenn Miller-style big band and vocalists who will “Sing, Sing, Sing.”

In the evening we invite you to ‘Whistle Stop Stories’ beginning at 7:30 pm. Stories of the generosity, hardship, and kindness that those involved in the North Platte Canteen endured are showcased in this moving production that will transport you back in time.

Both events will be held at the North Platte Community Playhouse.

Proceeds will be donated to the Lincoln County Historical Museum to further their World War II Canteen exhibit which will continue to spread this story of volunteerism and patriotism for generations to come.

Tickets on sale now. Advance tickets will be $18 for adults and $10 for students, and tickets purchased the day of will be $20 for adults and $12 for students. The ticket link and updated information will be available at VisitNorthPlatte.com/North-Platte-Canteen-Festival/.