STAY IN THE KNOMAHA!
The metro is jam packed with tons do—art, concerts, theater, festivals—we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive list and highlighted picks!
Music
SAMARA JOY
Holland Performing Arts Center
June 12, 7 p.m
1200 Douglas St.
ticketomaha.com
Join 24-year-old American jazz singer Samara Joy as she hits the Omaha stage. The Bronx native stepped onto the jazz scene with her debut album in 2021, later releasing her Grammy® Award-winning second album, “Linger Awhile,” establishing herself as the genre’s latest sensation. Her velvety voice, already endorsed by icons like Anita Baker and Regina King, has graced platforms from the TODAY Show to TikTok, garnering millions of fans. Despite her youth, she effortlessly interprets timeless classics on “Linger Awhile,” showcasing a sophistication beyond her years. Her triumph at the 2023 Grammy Awards, where she claimed Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best New Artist, solidified her status as the vanguard of Gen-Z jazz vocalists. 402.345.0202
Art
BECOMING JANE:
THE EVOLUTION OF DR. JANE GOODALL
The Durham Museum
June 22–October 13
801 S 10th St.
durhammuseum.org
Renowned English primatologist and anthropologist, Dr. Jane Goodall, has dedicated over six decades to studying the intricate social dynamics of wild chimpanzees, earning her the esteemed title of the world’s foremost expert on these creatures. Founding the Jane Goodall Institute and serving as a UN Messenger of Peace, she has fearlessly delved into the depths of the unknown, offering humanity profound insights into our closest relatives. This captivating multimedia exhibition pays homage to Dr. Goodall’s remarkable life and groundbreaking work. Encountering a life-sized hologram of Dr. Goodall and stepping into a replica of her research tent, visitors will gain a firsthand understanding of her tireless dedication to conservation. Organized and presented by the National Geographic Society in collaboration with the Jane Goodall Institute, this exhibition not only celebrates Dr. Goodall’s legacy, but also inspires visitors to take action toward positive change in the world. 402.444.5071
Festival
OMAHA FREEDOM FESTIVAL:
A CELEBRATION OF JUNETEENTH
Malcolm X Memorial Foundation
June 15, 10 a.m.
3448 Evans St.
juneteenthbynaacpomaha.org
The Omaha Freedom Festival is an all-day, family-friendly event that expands upon Omaha’s NAACP Juneteenth Parade to offer education, entertainment, and access to local resources. After the Juneteenth Parade at 10 a.m., the fun continues at the Omaha Freedom Festival. All are invited to join an unforgettable celebration at the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation Outside Event Plaza at 3448 Evans St., from 12–5 p.m. The event is a chance to have fun with your community and offers the chance to win a variety of prizes. Experience free daytime activities and a concert from 7 p.m. to midnight. Hosted by Freedomtainment, a 501c3 non-profit organization in North Omaha, this festival commemorates the Juneteenth holiday, honoring the emancipation of enslaved individuals in the United States. Main sponsors for this year’s event include Union Pacific, Google, Quality Clinical Research, and the Charles Drew Health Center. 531.772.0842
EXHIBITIONS
ARTS FOR ME! SPRING EXHIBITION
Through June 7 at KANEKO, 1111 Jones St. Experience the artistic endeavors of students from Arts For ME! (AFM) at KANEKO art center. AFM advocates for adaptive art programs for alternative students, passionately sharing their teaching philosophy and approach through art education. Collaborating with educators and artists globally, AFM harnesses diverse perspectives and expertise to enrich their programs. Step into a world of student creativity at the spring exhibition, and witness the transformative power of art in fostering inclusivity and self-expression. 402.341.3800
—thekaneko.org
JURASSIC QUEST
June 7–9 at CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St. Prepare for an unforgettable weekend packed with adventure! Bring the whole family to experience the world of animated life-size dinosaurs at CHI Health Center. Delight in meeting baby dinos (expertly maneuvered puppet) and embark on fossil excavation adventures. Featuring the largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit on tour, including the towering 60-foot spinosaurus, an 80-foot apatosaurus, and a life-sized T. rex, this event promises excitement for all ages. Kids can also enjoy dinosaur-themed bounce houses and unleash their creativity at the crafts table, with free activities like crafting paper dinosaurs and coloring dino-themed artworks. 402.341.1500
—chihealthcenteromaha.com
PLANT FOLK BY ANNE NEWMAN
Through July 9 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. “Plant Folk” by artist Anne Newman is an enchanting upcoming exhibition at Lauritzen Gardens. Newman’s captivating series comprises anthropomorphic plant portraits, vividly depicting plants in expressive motion. Inspired by the rich folklore surrounding mandrakes, the project evolved into an exploration of various plant species attaining consciousness and mobility. Each artwork invites viewers to contemplate the dynamic relationship between humanity and the botanical world, offering a whimsical, yet thought-provoking perspective on the interconnectedness of all living beings within the natural realm. 402.346.4002
—lauritzengardens.org
PLANTS THAT MAKE ME HAPPY BY MEGAN LOUDON SANDERS
Through July 9 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. This showcase presents a charming collection of portraits, capturing the artist’s cherished houseplants alongside vibrant paintings inspired by flowers from her garden. Sanders’ artistry unfolds in a captivating blend of grayscale and full-color compositions, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of nature. Through her artwork, Sanders celebrates the simple joys and profound connections found within the world of botanicals, offering a refreshing perspective on the harmony between humans and plants. 402.346.4002
—lauritzengardens.org
PHOTO EXHIBIT: MULEHEAD RANCH
Through July 14 at The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. During the early 20th century, as westward settlement surged, South Dakota witnessed the onset of the Second Dakota Boom. It was during this period that brothers Ernest, Graydon, and Frank Jackson, Jr. ventured into Rosebud Reservation territory and initiated their business venture, Mulehead Ranch. Showcasing its legacy, this exhibition features nine captivating images sourced from the institution’s photo archive, illustrating the profound impact of the ranch on the local landscape and culture. This show is curated by Creighton University graduate and intern at The Durham Museum, Eve Aspinwall. 402.444.5071
—durhammuseum.org
LAYERS OF IDENTITY–GROUP SHOW
July 26–27 at Cali Commons, 518 N 40th St. Upcoming at Cali Commons, a vibrant community space dedicated to showcasing local artists, is an exciting exhibition titled “Layers of Identity.” Featuring the works of artists George Garrett III, Eduardo Gardea, and Jenna Jaffery, this exhibition delves into the intricate journey of self-discovery and understanding. Through intentional exploration, these artists illuminate the multifaceted nature of human identity, influenced by our own experiences, cultures, and environments. As we navigate through life, the artists explain, our identities evolve and are shaped by both controllable and uncontrollable factors. 402.513.2321
—calicommons.net/cc
BYRON REED EXHIBIT: EXPRESSIONS IN WRITING
Through August 25 at The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. Over his lifetime, Byron Reed amassed a diverse collection of documents penned by historical figures and eyewitnesses to significant events. These authors range from royalty and explorers to early colonists. This upcoming Durham exhibit will showcase a curated selection of documents from Reed’s collection, accompanied by detailed historical and biographical narratives. Furthermore, visitors will delve into the realm of “graphology,” a study suggesting that handwriting reflects personality traits. Local handwriting analyst Rolando Garcia will provide insights into each document, offering brief observations gleaned from analyzing the writing styles. 402.444.5071
—durhammuseum.org
RAVEN HALFMOON: FLAGS OF OUR MOTHERS
Through September 15 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S 12th St. This exhibition showcases a curated selection of both new and borrowed works spanning the past five years, offering a unique glimpse into Raven Halfmoon’s evolving creative exploration. Halfmoon’s artistic practice encompasses a range of stoneware sculptures, from torso-scaled to colossal-sized pieces, some reaching heights of nine feet and weighing over 800 pounds. Drawing inspiration from ancient Indigenous pottery, Moai statues, and land art, Halfmoon delves into the intricate interplay among tradition, history, gender, and personal narrative. 402.341.7130
—bemiscenter.org
CONCERTS
TCHAIKOVSKY 6
June 1, 7:30 p.m., at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Experience the dynamic synergy between Jacob Nissly, Principal Percussionist of the San Francisco Symphony, and Maestro Ankush Kumar Bahl as they present Adam Schoenberg’s “Losing Earth Percussion Concerto” alongside the Omaha Symphony. This riveting composition, dedicated to Nissly, confronts the urgency of climate change while showcasing his virtuosity. Embark on an emotional journey with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6, “Pathétique,” as its stirring melodies and profound themes captivate the soul. This musical masterpiece promises to linger in your memory. 402.345.0202
—ticketomaha.com
POKEY LAFARGE
June 4, 8 p.m., at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Musician, songwriter, entertainer, and preservationist Pokey LaFarge stands as a special figure in American music. His talents defy genre boundaries, showcasing his innovative spirit and commitment to musical evolution. With his latest album, “Rhumba Country,” LaFarge unveils a renewed dedication to crafting music that exudes pure joy, marking a significant milestone in his musical journey. 402.884.5353
—waitingroomlounge.com
MOLLY TUTTLE & GOLDEN HIGHWAY–DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE TOUR
June 4, 8 p.m., at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and musician Molly Tuttle, along with her band Golden Highway, are bringing their “Down The Rabbit Hole” Tour to Omaha. Their latest album, “City of Gold,” under Nonesuch Records, follows Tuttle’s critically acclaimed 2022 record, “Crooked Tree,” which secured the title of Best Bluegrass Album at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards. Tuttle’s distinctive style seamlessly blends American roots music with singer-songwriter finesse. “City of Gold” continues this tradition, marrying the improvisatory spirit of bluegrass with sophisticated songwriting. 402.345.7569
—theslowdown.com
TOPHOUSE
June 5, 8 p.m., at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Established in 2015, TopHouse initially emerged as a musical collaboration between Jesse Davis, a guitarist and songwriter, and William Cook, a violinist, both of whom were music composition majors at the University of Montana. The duo’s shared passion for music propelled them to start performing together immediately, despite the absence of a drummer and vocalist. Over time, they transitioned to performing at local farmer’s markets, coffee shops, breweries, and weddings. In 2016, singer, songwriter, and guitarist/banjo player Joseph Larson joined the band, followed by pianist Andy LaFave in 2022. 402.345.7569
—theslowdown.com
TIM MCGRAW–STANDING ROOM ONLY TOUR
June 7, 7 p.m., at CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St. Back in Omaha, the familiar singer-songwriter Tim McGraw graces the country music scene once again with the “Standing Room Only Tour.” With a staggering 40 million albums sold in the US alone, McGraw is an iconic presence in American country music. Renowned as a singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor, he boasts an impressive discography comprising 16 studio albums. Ten of these albums have soared to the top spot on the Top Country Albums charts, with his 1994 breakthrough release, “Not a Moment Too Soon,” reigning as the top country album of the year. 402.341.1500
—chihealthcenteromaha.com
ZEPPARELLA
June 7, 8 p.m., at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Zepparella stands as the ultimate powerhouse tribute to Led Zeppelin. With vocalist Anna Kristina, guitarist Gretchen Menn, bassist Holly West, and drummer Clementine at the helm, their devotion to the legendary band’s music has taken them across the globe. Their performances capture the intricate nuances and depth of Led Zeppelin’s catalog while paying homage to the electrifying improvisational prowess that defined Zeppelin’s live shows. 402.884.5353
—waitingroomlounge.com
AVI KAPLAN–FEEL ALRIGHT TOUR
June 7, 8 p.m., at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Avi Kaplan, an American singer-songwriter, gained recognition as the former vocal bass of the a cappella sensation Pentatonix from 2011 to 2017. Transitioning to his solo career with 2017’s “Sage and Stone,” Kaplan already boasted a global following, having earned three Grammy Awards with Pentatonix. Despite the group’s escalating success, Kaplan felt compelled to reconnect with his artistic roots, drawing inspiration from the organic sounds of country and soul music that shaped his upbringing in rural California. 402.345.7569
—theslowdown.com
HERE’S WHERE WE STAND–RIVER CITY MIXED CHORUS
June 8, 7:05 p.m., at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Throughout the nation and beyond, June marks a time of celebration and introspection for the LGBTQ+ community. In alignment with Pride Month, River City Mixed Chorus proudly presents “Here’s Where We Stand,” a concert showcasing songs selected by members. This event pays homage to 40 years of music dedicated to love, joy, and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. The concert further amplifies RCMC’s commitment to inclusivity and advocacy. 402.345.0202
—ticketomaha.com
LIONEL RICHIE AND EARTH, WIND & FIRE–SING A SONG ALL NIGHT LONG
June 9 at CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St. Finally bringing the show to an Omaha stage, Lionel Richie extended his acclaimed “Sing A Song All Night Long” tour, featuring special guests Earth, Wind & Fire, one of the best-selling bands in history. Get ready to groove to classics like “Boogie Wonderland” and “All Night Long!” With an illustrious career boasting an Oscar, five Grammys, and 16 American Music Awards, Richie is renowned for his live performances. Earth, Wind and Fire, with six Grammys and four American Music Awards, are celebrated members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and NAACP Image Award Hall of Fame, having sold over 90 million records worldwide. 402.341.1500
—chihealthcenteromaha.com
AN EVENING WITH GOOSE
June 10, 7:30 p.m., at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. One of the most buzzed-about jam bands, Goose boasts a sold-out performance record at iconic venues like Red Rocks. Since their debut album release in 2016, Goose has captivated audiences with their distinctive blend of infectious songwriting, musicianship, and dynamic improvisation. Their success reached new heights in 2022 with the release of their third studio album, “dripfield.” Garnering critical acclaim from esteemed publications such as Rolling Stone, which lauded it as “both sweet headphone ear candy and the foundation for a perfect live peak,” “dripfield” solidified Goose’s status as a musical phenomenon. 402.345.0606
—steelhouseomaha.com
MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD + STEPHEN MARLEY
June 11, 6 p.m., at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Michael Franti, a globally recognized musician, activist, and filmmaker, is acclaimed for his high-energy performances, inspiring music, and philanthropic efforts. His latest album, “Follow Your Heart,” with his band Spearhead, debuted at No. 2 on the iTunes Pop Chart, showcasing his enduring talents. Meanwhile, Stephen Marley, an eight-time Grammy-winning reggae pioneer and son of musical legends Bob and Rita Marley, has forged his own path, infusing reggae with hip hop and soul elements, as demonstrated in his solo endeavors and collaborations with iconic artists like Jack Johnson and Bob Weir. 402.345.0606
—steelhouseomaha.com
THE MOVEMENT
June 13, 8 p.m., at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Formed in Columbia, South Carolina, The Movement is an American reggae band. The two founding members, Josh Swain and Jordan Miller, enlisted the talents of musicians Jay Schmidt and Gary Jackson, forming their live rhythm section. Their latest album, “Always With Me,” is available now. Since their inception, The Movement has garnered a devoted following among alternative-reggae enthusiasts, drawing influence from bands like Sublime, 311, Slightly Stoopid, and John Brown’s Body. Renowned for their versatile sound anchored in heavy drum and bass, they continue to evolve as reggae shapeshifters. 402.345.7569
—theslowdown.com
ONE OMAHA MUSIC FESTIVAL
June 13–15, Multiple venues in 3 Districts: Benson, Midtown, and the Old Market. Hook n Sync presents an impactful three-day concert event featuring a solid line up of the best local, regional, and national bands. The event is a true multi-venue, multi-stage, indoor/outdoor concert experience that includes live music from all genres played throughout the city.
—facebook.com/hooknsync
ARROWS IN ACTION: THE BACK TO LIFE TOUR
June 19, 7:30 p.m., at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. ARROWS IN ACTION, composed of singer and guitarist Victor Viramontes-Pattison, guitarist Matthew Fowler, and drummer Jesse Frimmel, have swiftly risen from undergraduate students to underground sensations. Their music, characterized by a fusion of angular indie-rock, ‘80s electric vibes, and sweet alt-pop, has captivated over half a million Spotify listeners. With their seamless melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and lush sonic landscapes, ARROWS IN ACTION continue to make waves in the music scene. 402.884.5353
—waitingroomlounge.com
SHAM 69
June 20, 8 p.m., at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Sham 69 is an English punk rock group formed in Hersham, Surrey, in 1975. They have been recognized as a significant influence on the Oi! subgenre of U.K. punk during the late 1970s, as well as on the working-class street punk movement of the 1980s. 402.884.5353
—waitingroomlounge.com
MURDER BY DEATH
June 23, 8 p.m., at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. As pioneers of early 2000s indie-Americana, Murder by Death, hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, infuses traditional rock-and-roll with a twist, crafting an eerie, emotive, and distinctive sound uniquely their own. Beyond their ominous name and Kentucky roots lies a band of literary songwriters, known for their brooding balladry and orchestral indie rock. Murder By Death’s journey began in the early 2000s, playing to intimate crowds at local venues and house parties. Over two decades, they’ve released eight albums, maintained a rigorous touring schedule, and cultivated a devoted fanbase. 402.884.5353
—waitingroomlounge.com
CHARLES WESLEY GODWIN
June 26, 8 p.m., at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Hailing from West Virginia, Charles Wesley Godwin is an American country-folk artist. His second album, “How the Mighty Fall,” released in 2021, garnered acclaim for its shift toward storytelling beyond his own experiences. Godwin toured with Zach Bryan and collaborated on Bryan’s song “Jamie” for the 2022 EP “Summertime Blues.” Additionally, Godwin’s track “Winter’s Come and Gone” was featured on the soundtrack for “The Hunger Games: The Ballads of Songbirds & Snakes.” 402.345.0606
—steelhouseomaha.com
YÄCHTLEY CRËW
June 28, 7 p.m., at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Yächtley Crëw, a seven-piece yacht rock band, emerged onto the California club scene in 2017, quickly becoming a local sensation and eventually gaining national recognition as a touring act. Their debut six-song EP, “Seas the Day,” features their original track, “S*x on the Beach,” and embodies the yacht rock genre revival, celebrating soft rock and Top 40 hits from the late ‘70s to the early ‘80s. Known as “The Titans of Soft Rock,” Yächtley Crëw brings classics to the stage adorned in nautical suits and captain hats. 402.345.0606
—steelhouseomaha.com
STAGE PERFORMANCES
BRAD WILLIAMS: TOUR ‘24
June 2, 7 p.m., at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Comedian Brad Williams has risen to become one of the most sought-after comedic talents of our time. Beginning his stand-up career in his teenage years, Williams has since embarked on a handful of successful tours, consistently selling out esteemed venues across the globe. He has graced both the big screen and television with his presence. Born with achondroplasia, Williams continues to captivate audiences with his unique perspective and boundless humor. 402.345.0202
—ticketomaha.com
CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY
June 7–23 at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. Experience the enchanting production of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” at The Rose Theater. Join young Charlie Bucket and four other fortunate winners as they embark on an extraordinary adventure through Willy Wonka’s enigmatic candy factory. Encounter chocolate waterfalls, nutty squirrels, and remarkable television technology, all unveiled by Wonka’s inquisitive Oompa-Loompas. This delightful performance, including the beloved song “Pure Imagination,” is your golden ticket to a magical journey based on Roald Dahl’s novel, featuring songs from the motion picture by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley. 402.345.4849
—rosetheater.org
FINDING NEMO JR.
June 12–16 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Bringing the beloved 2003 Disney Pixar film to Omaha, “Finding Nemo Jr.” tells the heartwarming tale of Marlin, an anxious clownfish, and his adventurous son, Nemo. Living in the Great Barrier Reef, Nemo dreams of exploring the vast ocean beyond their anemone home. However, when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Australia, Marlin embarks on a courageous journey to rescue him. Along the way, they encounter unforgettable characters like the optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, overcoming obstacles and discovering the true meaning of family and friendship. Featuring beloved songs like “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow,” the show immerses audiences in a vibrant underwater world filled with adventure. 402.553.0800
—omahaplayhouse.com
MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL
Through June 9 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” takes center stage in Omaha, triumphing with 10 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical. Step into a world of opulence, romance, and extravagant spectacle, where Bohemians and aristocrats mingle in a whirlwind of enchantment. Baz Luhrmann’s iconic film gets a vibrant new life on stage, remixed into a dazzling musical extravaganza. Directed by Tony Award® winner Alex Timbers, “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” has an all-star creative team, including Tony Award® winners John Logan, Justin Levine, and Sonya Tayeh. 402.661.8501
—ticketomaha.com
NATE BARGATZE–THE BE FUNNY TOUR
June 29, 7 p.m., at CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St. Following the triumph of his February show in Omaha, comedian Nate Bargatze is expanding “The Be Funny Tour” into the summer of 2024 with additional performances, including another lucky stop in Omaha. Dubbed “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up” by The Atlantic Magazine, Bargatze is a Grammy-nominated comedian from Nashville, Tennessee. Renowned for his over 10 appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” and his Netflix specials, Bargatze continues to garner widespread acclaim for his comedic talents. 402.341.1500
—chihealthcenteromaha.com
HELLO, DOLLY!
Through June 30 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. “Hello, Dolly!,” recipient of 15 Tony Awards including Best Musical and Best Revival, is gracing the stage at the Omaha Community Playhouse. This timeless musical masterpiece epitomizes classic theater entertainment. Bursting with showmanship, glamor, romance, dance, humor, and iconic musical numbers, “Hello, Dolly!” promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re encountering Dolly for the first time or revisiting her charm, this grand production is sure to leave a lasting impression. 402.553.0800
—omahaplayhouse.com
MORE:
GLOBAL SOUNDS FESTIVAL
June 1, 4 p.m., at Upland Park, 3104 Jefferson St. Upland Park once again hosts the eagerly anticipated Global Sounds festival, a collaborative effort with Canopy South. This vibrant event celebrates cultural diversity through music, dance, culinary delights, and community engagement. Presented in partnership with Omaha Performing Arts, the festival features a diverse lineup of local and national artists, providing a platform for both established and emerging talents. Moreover, it serves as a conduit for local vendors and nonprofit organizations, while also offering a delectable array of ethnic cuisines from food trucks. Spearheaded by Canopy South, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the holistic revitalization of South Omaha neighborhoods, the festival aligns with the mission of fostering economic mobility. Through initiatives like mixed-income housing development, educational support, and community enhancement programs, Canopy South continues to enrich the fabric of our neighborhoods. 402.345.0606
—ticketomaha.com
TASTE OF OMAHA
Through June 2 at Heartland of America Park at The RiverFront, 800 Douglas St. Now in its 27th year, the Taste of Omaha festival has become a staple in the city, drawing people from across the Midwest to indulge in an array of culinary delights. Omaha’s finest restaurants will showcase their creations, offering something for every palate. Attendees can enjoy live cooking demonstrations, peruse vendors, and groove to live music at the Heartland of America Park on The RiverFront. The 2024 event promises exceptional entertainment with daily performances on multiple stages, featuring top national acts and popular local bands—all free of charge for attendees to enjoy throughout the three-day extravaganza. 402.346.8003
—showofficeonline.com/TasteHome
ROSE DAY AND SHOW–OMAHA ROSE SOCIETY
June 2, 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m., at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Join the Omaha Rose Society for their annual Rose Day and Show, dedicated to fostering the culture and admiration for roses. Gardeners from across the region will showcase exquisite rose blooms cultivated in their own gardens. Explore the Robert H. Storz Family Rose Garden, featuring over 200 cultivars of garden roses, and engage with consulting rosarians to gain insights into rose cultivation and care. Share your passion for roses by participating as an exhibitor and showcasing the finest blooms from your garden; all are welcome to enter roses from their home gardens for the show. 402.346.4002
—lauritzengardens.org
LEASHES AT LAURITZEN
June 3 & 10 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Join Lauritzen Gardens for another special event catered to your best friend and bring your leashes! Accompany your furry companion on a leisurely stroll through scenic grounds, embracing the great outdoors together. It’s a relaxed and enjoyable opportunity for the whole family to explore 100 acres and miles of trails. Water and treats will be provided at various stations throughout the garden, ensuring a delightful experience for all. 402.346.4002
—lauritzengardens.org
SUMMER SOLSTICE LECTURE WITH JIM LOCKLEAR
June 20, 7 p.m., at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Embark on a delightful journey with Jim Locklear, the founding director of conservation at Lauritzen Gardens and the author of “In the Country of the Kaw: A Personal Natural History of the American Plains.” Join Locklear as he joyously explores the realm of the Kaw River, a unique waterway that originates and traverses all three major grasslands—the shortgrass, mixed-grass, and tallgrass prairies. Locklear will delve into the region’s abundant biological diversity and recount tales of human engagement with the landscape, illustrating how nature has influenced culture and vice versa. 402.346.4002
—lauritzengardens.org
WATER LANTERN FESTIVAL
June 29, 6 p.m., at Gene Leahy Mall, 1001 Douglas St. Head to Gene Leahy Mall for a memorable evening of light and camaraderie at the Water Lantern Festival. Participate in the unforgettable experience filled with food trucks, lively music, engaging activities, and thousands of lanterns illuminating the water. This event creates cherished memories for all attendees, bringing together friends, families, neighbors, and strangers alike in a peaceful and unforgettable celebration. The festival’s eco-conscious approach ensures that the lanterns, crafted from rice paper and wood, are environmentally friendly, with LED candles that are reused and recycled. 402.599.6565
—waterlanternfestival.com/omaha.php
This article originally appeared in the June 2024 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.