KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney will host a drone show as the highlight of its back-to-school celebration, marking a first for the city of Kearney.
The drone show, designed by Fantasy Drone Shows in Norfolk, will cap off the Loper Lot Party on Aug. 28, filling the night sky with personalized displays that celebrate UNK, the Lopers and broader Kearney community.
Fantasy Drone Shows is known for its large drone displays across the country, including last year’s Volleyball Day in Nebraska at Memorial Stadium.
“We’ve been looking for an opportunity to bring a drone show to Kearney. If you’ve never seen one before, get ready for an unforgettable experience,” said Todd Gottula, UNK’s senior director of communications and marketing. “The show design and graphics are unique to UNK. It’s going to be a memorable way to kick off the school year, and we can’t wait to see everyone come out and enjoy the show.”
The drone show is expected to begin between 8:30 and 8:45 p.m. and will last approximately 15 minutes, featuring choreographed light displays that create images and animations in the sky, all synchronized to music. The display will be in the sky directly east of Hilltop Mall, with the best viewing area in the main parking lot west of the mall.
Parking will be available in the main lots on the west side of Hilltop Mall, with additional parking on the east side. Although the university advises against using nearby business parking lots, several businesses have agreed to allow community members to watch the show from adjacent areas.
Attendees should plan for high volumes of traffic in the area.
The Loper Lot Party, a free event open to all students, faculty, staff and community members, is from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Hilltop Mall parking lot, 5011 Second Ave. In addition to the drone show, the event will feature food trucks, games, a DJ and a variety of other activities.
The family-friendly event is part of UNK’s efforts to welcome students back to campus and foster connections within the Kearney community.
