Junkstock: Harvest Edition 2021
When we moved to Omaha in the fall of 2019, one of our first family outings was to something called Junkstock.
Twice a year, Junkstock is held at Sycamore Farm in Waterloo, NE—one in the spring and one in the fall. The best way I can describe Junkstock is that it’s a maker’s market, antique fair, flea market, and outdoor festival all rolled in to one, held at a farm on the outskirts of Omaha. The website describes it as a vintage festival combining “live music, food, and junk”. It’s a unique experience and one of my favorite events in Omaha!
Junkstock: Harvest Edition is my particular favorite since the farm is covered with fall decorations and incredible displays for photo opportunities. There are pumpkins, mums, and corn stalks galore, and combined with the backdrop of the farm and live music, it’s such a festive atmosphere.
It’s the perfect place to discover local small businesses and see some incredibly talented makers. There are treasures to be discovered among all of the vendors spread throughout the farm!
For food, there are a wide variety of food trucks and snack stands (a detailed list is available on the Junkstock website). If you’re feeling extra groovy, there are alcoholic drinks available, and I’ve heard the bloody marys have a cult following. Vegetables in alcohol isn’t my thing, but if it’s yours, go for it and let me know how it is! My personal favorite treat at the Harvest Edition is hot apple cider with a box of fresh cider donuts, made on site by the Sycamore Farms Donut Factory.
Junkstock: Harvest Edition 2021 is happening on two weekends, Oct. 1-3 and Oct. 8-10. Admission is $10 for adults and kids 12 & under are free. Dogs are welcome too!
Here are my tips for a great Junkstock day:
Have cash available. There are ATMs on site but it’s easier if you already have some on hand, especially if you plan to purchase tickets there, since it’s cash only at the gate.
Wear comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. I have made the mistake of wearing cute ballet flats to Junkstock, only to wind up with dirt-covered feet by the end of the day… since, you know, it’s at a farm.
If you have kids, go in the morning. Saturday and Sunday mornings aren’t quite as busy, and it can be hectic and overwhelming even without littles to keep track of if you’re there at a busy time of day.
Bring a basket, market bag, or wagon. If you have a successful day, having something to haul your junk is super helpful.
If you need to go out to your car, get a hand stamp so you can re-enter. There’s usually someone standing by the exit gate who will have a stamp.
Be weather prepared. Junkstock happens rain or shine, so make sure you check the forecast and bring the appropriate gear for you and your family.
Take photos. There are so many great spots to take pictures around the farm. Some of my favorite photos of our family were taken at Junkstock!
Check out the Junkstock website and socials for more details. You can get a great sense of what to expect through their photos posted on Instagram!
Peace, love, and junk, y’all.
Have you been to Junkstock, and if so, what did you enjoy most? Or are you planning to go, and what are you most excited about? Tell me about your experience or hopes in the comments!