Ranchers Night Out: Good Food, Great Company, and Real Conversations
- Ashley Garrelts
- Nov 20
- 2 min read
Ranching has always been about more than cattle and grass — it’s about people, community, and connection. That’s the spirit behind Ranchers Night Out, an evening designed to bring local ranchers together for a meal, a cold drink, and honest conversation about life and work in the Sandhills.
Hosted by the Sandhills Task Force, this event offers a chance to slow down, gather with friends and neighbors, and share ideas that keep the Sandhills strong. Join us on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Kinkaider Brewing Co. in Broken Bow, Nebraska, from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. CST. Guests will enjoy a steak dinner and a complimentary drink, all included in the $30 registration fee. The evening’s highlight will be presentations from three Sandhills ranchers — Tim Downing, Melanie Clark, and Tim Mason — who will share stories from their own operations, including grazing and management strategies, lessons learned, and the creative ways they’ve adapted to challenges.
"We don't get together as much as we used to, and even though we can learn a lot from podcasts and webinars, in-person gatherings still provide a better atmosphere for learning and sharing," says Shelly Kelly, Executive Director for the Sandhills Task Force. "Ranchers Night Out is an opportunity to celebrate the local ranchers and give them space to connect and learn from each other."
The Sandhills Task Force began hosting Ranchers Night Out events in 2023 as a way to strengthen community ties during the quieter winter months. These gatherings have been popular within the ranching community, drawing attendees from across the region who appreciate the chance to learn, laugh, and share ideas in a laid-back setting. The Sandhills Task Force aims to host two events each winter, rotating locations across the Sandhills to reach a wide range of producers and communities. Past events have taken place in Nenzel, Rushville, Arnold, Broken Bow, and Burwell. In addition to the Broken Bow event, plans are underway to host an event in the Long Pine or Bassett area after the new year.
Past attendees say the events are both enjoyable and meaningful.
“Learning from folks who are making a living on the land in a relaxed and fun atmosphere is why I keep coming back to these events,” shared Lemoyne Dailey, who ranches in Thomas County and has attended several Ranchers Night Out. “It's nice just to get together and rub shoulders with people you haven’t seen in a while, where there is a focused discussion on ranching topics, which doesn’t occur at other community events.”
At its heart, Ranchers Night Out is a celebration of the Sandhills way of life — resilient, generous, and deeply connected to the land. It’s a time to step away from daily demands, enjoy a good meal, and reconnect with the people and values that make this region special. So pull on your boots, bring your appetite, and join us for a night of great food, fellowship, and conversation. You’ll leave full — in more ways than one.
RSVP today by clicking the link below or calling/texting Ashley at (307) 351-0935 to reserve your spot!