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Pick of the Week—Friday, May 4 to Sunday, May 6: Why wait until the fifth to start celebrating Cinco de Mayo? South Omaha has been hosting Cinco de Mayo events for decades, and they keep that tradition alive this year with a three-day-long extravaganza open to all who wish to salute the Mexican Army’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla. Though a minor holiday in Mexico, this day has become a time for the community to celebrate their heritage and traditions. And no, it’s not all about the drinking. (I know that’s what most of you were thinking.) With carnivals, a parade, and even a mariachi mass, this weekend is going to be jam-packed with fiesta vibes. Get the full rundown here.
Thursday, May 3: The Japanese term “jo-ha-kyū” describes a structural aesthetic of forms in motion. The English translation of this concept is “beginning.break.rapid.” The Bemis Center’s exhibit beginning.break.rapid Kenji Fujita and Barbara Takenega looks at two artists—each different but both featuring this aesthetic. New York-based visual artist Fujita makes work out of ordinary materials. Takenega is a painter with printmaking roots. Today only (12:30 p.m.!) Bemis will offer a free, traditional Japanese tea ceremony as well, during which everyone is invited to discuss the relationship between the artists’ work. Enjoy your lunch break and register here now.
Friday, May 4: Ever wondered what it would be like if Snow White went off on the Evil Queen? Or if Napoleon Bonaparte ever clashed with Peter the Great? If these are the types of questions that plague you, then head to The Nerd Roast (Standup) at The Backline. For only $5, you can see some of Omaha’s talented comedians and improvisers hurl insults at each other—as some of your favorite characters, both fictional and real. Learn more here.
Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5: It’s perfect weather for shopping outside, so luckily the Omaha Farmer’s Markets are open again! If you can’t make it to the O.G. downtown one on Saturday (because, Berkshire) you can always head to the Aksarben Village market on Sunday. Help them celebrate their 25th season this year by getting out and supporting your local vendors. Don’t forget to bring your bags and some cash. And don’t worry about grabbing brunch beforehand. The number of vendors with ready-to-eat food (including a rumored biscuits and gravy booth in the Old Market and a confirmed bloody Mary bar from Liv Lounge at the Aksarben location) continues to grow. Find out more about your favorite marketplaces here.
Saturday, May 5 to Sunday, May 6 and May 12 and 13: The 2018 Renaissance Festival at Bellevue Berry Farm is no joke. There will be over 50 vendors, acclaimed joust professionals, historical reenactments, and games of skill. And that doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of all that is to come. Besides the foraging for goods, there will also be plenty of tasty fare to replenish the body and soul as you traipse through the farm, experiencing the days of yore. To find out more, gallop on over here.