It is probably not what comes to mind when you hear the word carnival, but with Sandhill crane migration in full swing kids are getting a hand in the action too.
Saturday, they traded ferris wheels and funnel cakes for feathers.
Rowe Sanctuary Director Bill Taddicken said the less than traditional carnival teaches kids about the cranes.
"Most of the kids, even in a rural setting in Nebraska, don't get out into nature very often. They don't get outside," he said. "Get them exposed to nature, the light turns on, the smiles start."
Going into its ninth yearm the Crane Carnival is now happening in conjuction with a newer event, the first annual Crane Festival.
It is something the Luker family said they're excited about.
"I think that it is really fun and its a good way to learn," Cameron Luker said.
Patty and Dave hope their son Cameron takes away a growing love for nature.
"The more they learn about nature and the more they want to be out in nature, the more they'll take that on to future generations," Patty Luker said.
Taddicken said if families can't make it out to this week's festival events, there are still plenty of opportunities to get kids involved outdoors.
"Just take them out on the gravel roads and show them the cranes," he said. "This is the only place in the world where this many cranes gets together and it's right in our own backyard."
