Do you love German food and music? Or maybe you’ve never experienced it and would like to check it out?
While attending the Midwest Travel Network conference we were treated to a visit to The Liederkranz Klub, which was founded in 1870. Liederkranz means “Song of Wreath” or “Circle of Song.” According to the website, it is a German Klub “organized as a singing society to promote singing, music, drama, art, and literature.”
While it is listed on Facebook as a wedding venue, it’s oh-so-much-more. The building, although still old having been built in 1911, replaced the original structure. It is now on the National Register of Historic Places as well as the Nebraska State Historical Society.
The exterior of the massive building immediately catches your eye. While it’s not filled with intricate carving like many old buildings, it still stands out as something special that you want to stop and see.
Of course, we always love exploring old buildings, so we were excited to have the chance not only to go inside but also to experience the food and music.
For our event, we entered through the sprawling back lawn area, shaded under a canopy of trees, where we were treated to games and drinks. Our favorite part was watching someone use a hot poker to stir beer (called “bocking” the beer), giving it a marshmallow/s’mores flavor (David and I don’t drink so we didn’t try it to confirm the flavor). The whole thing is like a cross between a show and a taste-test. Even without trying the flavor, it was so much fun to watch the liquid bubble and grow in the glass.
We then headed inside, and after getting our meal from a buffet line set up in the Brickhall, a stately brick-walled room that’s perfect for weddings or other events, we went to the Ballroom to eat. The distinct sound of an accordion and Polka music was the perfect touch of entertainment for our dinner.
Touring inside the grand building took some time as there are so many fascinating historical documents and photos on display.
Downstairs, the Rathskeller bar, with its deep, rich, wood-carved bar oozes comfort and class – and has a slight “speakeasy” vibe to it. Who can resist that?
A fun surprise next to the Rathskeller was the bowling alley. The area looks like nothing has changed since it opened – which is a good thing. Many of us have previous memories of old bowling alleys with hours of fun with our friends. The inexpensive fee to bowl would easily make up for the cost of the membership in a very short time.
The Liederkranz Klub is a private club, so membership is required. However, day passes are available if you don’t want join, or only plan to go occasionally or while passing through town.
Many events occur during the year, and you can keep informed through their website or Facebook page.
For instance, on the second Friday of each month, you can experience traditional German food on “German Night.”
SPECIAL NOTE: You’re in luck if you want a chance to try that interesting concept of bock beer! Coming up on March 21, 2026, the Liederkranz will be holding its annual Bockfest. Make sure to put it on your calendar to see this fascinating process – and then let us know if you think it tastes like s’mores.
The Liederkranz Klub is located at:
401 W 1st St.
Grand Island, NE 68801
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