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A Note from Cassie

Photo of Cassie Ehrenberg, Executive Director of the Iron Horse Arts District. She wears a pink blazer over a white shirt and is smiling.

Pictured: Cassie Ehrenberg, Executive Director

Dear friends,

I have some news to share, and it's not easy to write.

In June, I'll be stepping down as Executive Director of the Iron Horse Arts District. My family and I are relocating (an amazing and unexpected job opportunity for my husband), and this work needs someone who is present in this community — because that presence is everything.

I've been part of this district since the very beginning, sitting in community meetings and dreaming alongside so many of you about what downtown Holdrege could become. Getting to help make that vision real — as Project Manager and then Executive Director since April 2024 — has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

Read more

Invest in a Creative Summer

This summer, the Iron Horse Arts District is bringing three programs to life that celebrate local artists and put art in public spaces where everyone can enjoy it — and we need your help to get there.

Our Summer in the District campaign, running now through May 14, has a goal of $15,000 to fund the Artisan Expo (May 30), Crosswalk Murals (early June), and the Mini Mural Showcase (August–September) — a summer-long open-air gallery where ten local artists display original murals, which then go to auction in September with proceeds returning directly to the artists.

All supporters will be recognized on social media, our website, and on printed signage at events throughout the summer and beyond.

$1,000 – Large logo recognition
$500 – Small logo recognition
Any amount – Your name, with our gratitude

Give online by clicking the button below, or contact us about giving by check. Thank you for your support!

Support a Creative Summer

May Pop-Up Art Gallery:
Meditation at 2000º with Taylor Moore

Taylor Moore is a glass artist based outside Lexington, Nebraska, and his work is rooted in the total presence the medium demands. The title of his current exhibit says it all — working at 2,000 degrees leaves no room for a wandering mind. For Taylor, that intensity is the meditation.

Artist Reception:

Thursday, May 14 | 5–7 p.m.
Holdrege Area Public Library

Come meet the artist, see his work, and enjoy light refreshments. The reception is free and open to the public. If you can't make it to the reception, his work will be up throughout May in the library.

Taylor Moore: Meditation at 2000 Degrees promotional poster.

Learn more about Taylor's work

Artisan Expo: Coming Soon!

Saturday, May 30 | 10 AM–3 PM | Downtown Holdrege (around the Phelps County Courthouse)

Mark your calendars — the 2026 Artisan Expo is almost here, and it's shaping up to be a fantastic day.

Join us in downtown Holdrege for a free-to-attend celebration of arts and creativity featuring over 30 vendors and demonstrators, live music, poetry readings, kids' activities, and food trucks. There's something for everyone, whether you're there to shop or simply to soak up creative

This year we're also excited to welcome a film screening by Holdrege High School alumnus Elijah Watson — a special addition that highlights the range of creative talent rooted right here in our community.

The Iron Horse Arts District present the 2026 Artisan Expo. Saturday, May 30 from 10am - 3pm in downtown Holdrege.

Bring the family, bring a friend, and come ready to be inspired.

Learn more & plan your day!

Artist Bureau Spotlight: Mike Grabast

Each month, we're shining a spotlight on one of the talented artists in our new Iron Horse Artist Bureau — and this month we are proud to spotlight Mike Grabast, a painter whose work captures the quiet beauty of rural Nebraska.

A self-taught master of bold color and clean geometry, Mike found his calling through barn quilts — and refused to let adversity take it away. After teaching himself the craft entirely through YouTube, he developed a distinctive style using spray paint to bring vibrant, striking designs to life.

When a serious health challenge left him visually impaired two years ago, Mike adapted with resilience and faith, finding his way back to the studio against all odds. His work today stands as a testament to the enduring power of creativity — proof that artistic expression doesn't just survive hardship, it can grow deeper because of it.

Read More about Mike

Patriotic barn quilt designed and painted by Mike Grabast

Patriotic barn quilt by Mike Grabast

Join the Artist Bureau

Are you a local or regional artist looking for more visibility and connection? The Artist Bureau is the place for you! For just $40 per year, you'll be part of a growing community of artists whose work we actively promote and celebrate.

Join the Artist Bureau

Introducing the Pop-Up Concert Series

This summer, the Iron Horse Arts District is transitioning from its annual Flyover Country Stage concert to a new Iron Horse Pop-Up Concert Series. The new series brings live music to venues throughout Holdrege in a more intimate, accessible — and financially sustainable — format.

The series kicks off on Saturday, August 29 at JB's Sports Bar and Grill (outdoor beer garden) with a pop and country-themed evening featuring performers Jaden Schumacher and Tanner Sovereign. Admission is $10 at the door (cash).

Future concerts will be held at various locations around Holdrege and will feature a range of musical styles. This new pop-up series will help Iron Horse determine what style of music most resonates with area residents.

Upcoming Events & Programs

Save the date for these upcoming Iron Horse events!

Throughout May | Taylor Moore: Meditation at 2000 Degrees at the Holdrege Area Public Library
Thursday, May 14 | Artist Reception for Taylor Moore | 5–7PM at Holdrege Area Public Library
Saturday, May 30 | Iron Horse Artisan Expo | 10 AM–3 PM in Downtown Holdrege.
Saturday, June 6 | Crosswalk Mural installation (Community Art Project) | 7 AM–2 PM
Thursday, June 11 | 5–7PM at Iron Horse Art Gallery (401 East Ave, Holdrege)
- Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Celebration - details coming soon!
- Artist Reception for Christy Kosmicki
Saturday, June 13 | Crosswalk Mural installation (Community Art Project) | 7 AM–2 PM
Thursday, July 9 | Artist Reception for Dan Christensen (posthumous) | 5–7PM at Nebraska Prairie Museum
Thursday, August 13 | Artist Reception for Greg Yochum | 5–7PM at Lost Way Brewery
Friday, August 28 | A Night with George Lundeen [ticketed event] | Time TBD at Iron Horse Art Gallery. More information coming soon!
Saturday, August 29 | Pop-Up Concert Series presents Jaden Schumacher and Tanner Sovereign. More details coming soon!
Saturday, October 24 | Haunted Holdrege 2026. More details coming soon!

See more event information

Want to get involved?

Whether or not you classify yourself as an artist, we would love your support in increasing arts and culture opportunities in the Holdrege area. We have numerous projects in the works and would appreciate your time, assistance, or financial support.

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Iron Horse Arts District
PO Box 20
Holdrege, NE 68949-0020

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