GORDON, Neb. - The summer-like weather was the perfect backdrop for one of Gordon, Nebraska’s most beloved traditions. Thousands gathered this weekend for the 40th Annual Willow Tree Festival.

“A lot of people come from out of town, and a lot of people you see only once a year, and it’s here,” Joni Elwood said.

Elwood was at the very first festival.

“My mom is an artist, and she had a booth here. I helped her with the booth 40 years ago,” Elwood said.

Decades later, the event has grown to attract thousands of attendees, a remarkable feat for a town with a population of less than 1,500. From puppet shows to arts and crafts and live music, three different stages offer something for everyone.

“Lots of memories are made. We’re in our 40th year, and there have been a lot of memories all those 40 years,” Willow Tree Festival President Bonnie Saxton said.

In addition to arts and crafts and live performances, one of the main things that draws people to the Willow Tree Festival is the food. 

“From Philly steak sandwiches to barbecue to potatoes,” Saxton said.

But organizers say the event is about more than just food and activities. Norma Burnhan has been on the festival board for all 40 years.

“Community is what makes this special. It brings us all together,” Burnhan said.

A community event promoting the magic of memory-making for four decades.

“Forty more years of this I hope,” Elwood said.