HASTINGS, Neb. – For the first time, the Oregon Trail Rodeo will feature live band music from the three Hastings high schools. 

Organizers with the rodeo have formed a 'Mega Band' which will combine the marching bands of Hastings, Adams Central, and Hastings St. Cecilia High Schools. 

The rodeo says the idea was thought of by current volunteers Becky and Jeff Crecelius. Their son Jonah is a sophomore in the Hastings High marching band. 

On Sunday, Aug. 18, the Mega Band will play the national anthem and pep band songs during the 6 p.m. show for the Oregon Trail Rodeo at the Adams County Fairgrounds.

Becky says almost 100 percent of each band have agreed to play for the last performance of this year's rodeo. 

The rodeo runs August 16-18 with other performances starting at 7 p.m. on August 16-17 and at 6 p.m. on August 18 for the Mega Band.