A new regional event is taking shape in western Nebraska. Panhandle Frontier Finds (PFF) will debut June 5–7, 2026, bringing together communities, vendors, and travelers for a three-day, multi-county celebration of the region’s creativity, culture, and commerce.
The idea for Panhandle Frontier Finds originated with Rod and Kathy VanPelt, long-time residents in Banner County, participants and shoppers at the Nebraska Junk Jaunt®. Inspired by their experiences, the VanPelts envisioned a similar event designed specifically for the Nebraska Panhandle — one that would highlight local artisans, collectors, and entrepreneurs while welcoming visitors to explore the region’s rich heritage and hospitality.
That vision has now grown into a coordinated regional effort thanks to a dedicated volunteer board and support from community leaders across the Panhandle.
“Panhandle Frontier Finds is dedicated to celebrating the unique spirit of Nebraska’s Panhandle by connecting communities, supporting local vendors, and welcoming visitors to discover the treasures of our region,” said Jo Wells, board chairman. “Our mission is to inspire collaboration among communities, artisans, and entrepreneurs while creating an annual event that showcases the history, creativity, and hospitality that define the Panhandle. Together, we aim to build stronger communities and encourage travelers to explore all that western Nebraska has to offer.”
Collaborating with Dawes and Sioux counties in the northern Panhandle that hosted a similar event in June 2025, Panhandle Frontier Finds will unite 11 counties for one region-wide event. The Panhandle has been organized into three tiers — Northern, Central, and Southern — each with representation on the five-member PFF Board. This structure encourages collaboration, consistency, and shared success across communities of all sizes.
Whether through vendor registration, sponsorship, or local collaboration, participants will play a key role in shaping an experience that promotes community pride, supports small businesses, and highlights the very best of western Nebraska. The Panhandle Frontier Finds board invites vendors, organizations, and communities across the region to participate in this inaugural event. The group is also actively seeking community vendor coordinators.
“Community Vendor Coordinators play a key role in bringing people together—spreading the word, encouraging local participation, and helping organize community-wide activities,” Wells said. “Vendors can showcase their treasures either at designated community spaces or right from their own homes, creating a welcoming, countywide experience for travelers and neighbors alike.”
Interested vendors can secure a listing in the sales booklet for $25-45 based on the type of listing. Additional information can be requested by emailing info@panhandlefrontierfinds.com.
Panhandle Frontier Finds operates under the Oregon Trail Community Foundation (OTCF), a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
This partnership allows PFF to:
- Strengthen its financial and operational framework
- Expand access to grants and funding opportunities
- Build a transparent and sustainable organizational model for future growth
Jamie Bright, chair of the sales committee, encourages Panhandle businesses and organizations to advertise in the sales guide to drive business to their locations and support marketing of the event. Rates range from $50 for an eighth page ad to $1,500 for the Expedition level package that includes a full-page ad in the guide as well as promotion in other formats. Questions regarding advertising sales can be sent to sales@panhandlefrontierfinds.com.
Details on the event can be found at www.panhandlefrontierfinds.com or follow them on Facebook.
