Pla Mor Ballroom Celebrated It’s 90th Birthday in 2019 – Click Here for the Event Photo Gallery!
The Pla Mor Ballroom of Lincoln, NE, opened during the Great Depression in 1929 by musician Eddie Sheffert over a corn field, will celebrate its 90th birthday on October 10 – 11 with multiple events celebrating music, dance and camaraderie as well as special 1929 pricing. With admission on 25¢, guest can also enjoy hot dogs and popcorn for 10¢!
Originally one of five Lincoln ballrooms at the time, including the Turnpike, Sunset, Kings and East Hills, it is the only one surviving. Known as “The Social Gathering Place” as patrons coped with the depression, wars and conflicts, and life in general, the Pla Mor has hosted patrons from all 50 states and 30 foreign countries during its 20,000 events. Among the Big Bands were Lawerence Welk, Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Harry James, Stan Kenton, Myron Floren and Tommy Dorsey. Its nonstop weekly activities have also including weddings and receptions, all types of music and dance, ethic festivals and funerals including celebrations of life. *
In the 1940-60s, an Air Force Base was located in North Lincoln and the City of Lincoln provided bis from downtown to the Pla Mor.
Vic and June Sloan purchased the ballroom in the 50’s. The current ownership transferred in 1972 to Big Band Leader, Bobby Layne, who also needed a home base to share his big band music from The Bobby Layne Orchestra.
According to its current owner, “The Pla Mor Ballroom has been the heart and soul of Lincoln for generations. I can’t imagine how many couples first danced together here before beginning their lives together. In honor of it’s 90th birthday, I would love to hear from everyone about their favorite Pla Mor memories.”
Legendary Husker Football Coach Bob Devaney dances at the Pla Mor. Also attending have been numerous notes Nebraskan’s including Governors and former U.S. Senators Bob Kerrey and Chuck Hagel.
Former Senator Bob Dole of Kansas made appearances to present the trophies to the winners of the “Accordion Contenst” during the Polka Days Festivals.
Performers have featured country stars including Blake Shelton, Classic Rock performer Bill Haley, Polka band The Six Fat Dutchmen and comedian Rodney Carrington.
*Additional Events Hosted by the Pla Mor Ballroom in the last 90 years:
High School Proms
Greek Parties
Nebraska Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Events
Polka Festivals
Czech Festivals
Nebraska Cigar Festival
Law Enforcement Parties
High School Jazz Bands
Church Services
Beauty Pageants
Civil Service Testing for U.S. Postal Service
Fundraising Events (Villa Marie, UNL Rodeo, Cystic Fibrosis)
