Gretna Days was started over 60 years ago by local businessman Marv Killion with Gretna State Bank (now Pinnacle Bank). He was joined the following year by Ed and Don Frederick of Frederick Brothers Grocery. Ed and the Frederick family still run Frederick Brothers Rental, which owns and operates Village Square here in Gretna. Over the years, many individuals have worked hard to keep Gretna Days going strong. Emil and Barb Beyer, Jack Koke, and Dan Washburn were a few of the most instrumental volunteers.
The original purpose of the weekend was to thank the community for their support of local businesses throughout the year. As a foundation, we continue this tradition today with the Community Picnic in the park on Sunday. We have added various other events including the Friday Fireworks and the Saturday night dance in Village Square which helps fund the weekend’s activities. It is our goal to maintain these original traditions and continue to improve and grow Gretna Days.
