Thousands will converge on Gothenburg for the area’s biggest event of the year, taking place this Saturday. The Livin Out Loud (LOL) outdoor Christian concert has averaged more than 10,000 attendees, nearly three times the population of Gothenburg.
This will be the seventh year for the concert at Lake Helen, after outgrowing the space that is now home to the Impact Center. It is year 13 overall for the event.
Despite an annual budget of $140,000, the event remains free to attend thanks to the generosity of sponsors and private donors. With a committee of volunteer community members as organizers and planners, Livin Out Loud earned tax-exempt 501 (c)(3) status in 2019.
Early Saturday morning soundchecks from the bands will bring the first sound to the area, but setup behind the scenes has been happening for days. The stage, lights, sound booth, and tents are all complete before the arrival of the first artists.
“Lake Helen is a beautiful backdrop, so why not take this opportunity to show off one of the beautiful spots in Gothenburg,” said LOL Vice President Tim Strauser.
The large green space at the lake gives people plenty of room to spread out and for kids to run, presenting a family-friendly environment. Seating is not available at the site, so those attending are reminded to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Strauser also suggests insect repellent and sunscreen.
Parking is available along Lake Avenue and the side streets in the area, as well as the rodeo grounds. The parking lot near the fishing pier will be handicap parking, with a sidewalk running to the state area.
The concert will begin at 4:45 p.m. Aug. 16, with five bands scheduled to perform. First to take the stage will be Claire Leslie, followed by Band Reeves, and Charity Gayle. As the sun begins to fade behind the stage, We Are Messengers will perform, and the 2025 show will conclude with Tauren Wells.
“It was always our long-term goal to grow the event to utilize a space such as Lake Helen. We see continued participation from a larger and larger area of Nebraska, so we expect crowds to continue to grow,” said LOL President Joe Wahlgren.
Livin Out Loud continues on Sunday morning, Aug. 17, with a community worship service at the park beginning at 10 a.m. A message will be delivered by Pastor Ken Boehr from Mitchell, with worship music led by Band Reeves.
Though the music doesn’t get underway until late afternoon on Saturday, folks are invited to arrive early and set up their chairs. Food vendors will be on site and will begin serving customers about 3 p.m. Credit and debit cards are accepted at the vendors; however, it is recommended that you bring cash to use if possible, as that will make the lines move quicker.
There is no cost to attend Livin Out Loud, but donations are accepted and very appreciated.
“It is only through the generous support of businesses and individuals that we are able to keep this thing going,” said Wahlgren. “So many people from a far-reaching area are very supportive of our focus on the Gospel and getting that out there for free.”
Those unable to attend that would like to help Livin Out Loud financially can go to LivinOutLoud.com. Information about the 2025 event can also be found on the site, along with Livin Out Loud on Facebook.
