Light Up The Falls Event Draws Record Crowds To Smith Falls State Park

Almost 750 visitors attended the Light Up The Falls celebration.

The 2026 Light Up the Falls celebration at Smith Falls State Park shone brighter than ever this year, welcoming nearly 750 visitors to an evening of patriotic color, outdoor adventure, and community partnership.

As daylight slowly faded, the boardwalk filled with families, hikers, and nature‑enthusiasts eager to witness the dramatic red, white, and blue illumination of Nebraska’s tallest waterfall. Though nightfall took its time, the wait was filled with hands‑on learning, laughter, and activities for all ages.

Throughout the evening, national park rangers from Niobrara National Scenic River and Nebraska conservation officers offered guided hikes, shared stories, and led educational programs about the river valley, local wildlife, and the Niobrara’s many iconic waterfalls. At the same time, the Niobrara National Scenic River pop‑up visitor center hosted the National Weather Service, who engaged visitors in conversations about flooding, river safety, and weather patterns that shape the region.

Young attendees stayed especially busy thanks to Niobrara NSR’s ACE Interns, who helped children create life‑size waterfalls using newsprint, markers, and crayons—an activity that quickly became a highlight of the night.

At 9 p.m., members of the Valentine VFW presented the colors, followed by a beautiful performance of the national anthem by Eve Miller. The crowd gathered along the boardwalk joined together in reciting the pledge of allegiance, creating a powerful moment of shared community pride.

As darkness settled in, members of the Platte Valley Astronomical Observers guided visitors through the night sky—pointing out constellations and even features of Jupiter visible through their telescopes. Their expertise added an inspiring cosmic dimension to an already unforgettable evening.

The patriotic lighting of Smith Falls capped off the night, earning cheers and applause from hundreds gathered below.

“We are thrilled by this year’s turnout and deeply grateful to our partners, volunteers, and visitors who made this event such a resounding success,” Travis Connot, acting site manager for Niobrara National Scenic River said. “We hope the staff at Smith Falls State Park will invite us back next year for another unforgettable celebration beneath the stars.”

More information can be found at www.nps.gov/niob or by phoning 402-376-1901.

About the National Park Service

The National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of this and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.