STAY IN THE KNOMAHA!
The metro is jam packed with tons to do—art, concerts, theater, festivals—we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive list and highlighted picks!
CONCERT
I’M NOT AFRAID OF MUSIC ANYMORE TOUR
Steelhouse Omaha
October 1, 8 pm
1100 Dodge St.
steelhouseomaha.com
The hit pop rock group hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, COIN, is making a comeback with their “I’M NOT AFRAID OF MUSIC ANYMORE” tour. Most known for their hits “Run” and “Talk Too Much,” which hit the mainstream in 2015-2016, their new sound will bring long-term fans together while also getting the attention of a new crowd. The album is produced by Gabe Simon, who has previously produced for names such as Dua Lipa, Noah Kahan, and Lana Del Rey. This new evolution of sound was described by the band as “not a new chapter in their existence, but an entire new volume, with more depth than they’ve ever shared before.” Since their 2012 debut, they’ve opened for artists such as 5 Seconds of Summer, toured with The 1975, headlined many of their own tours, and played at Lollapalooza. 402.345.0606
STAGE PERFORMANCE
SYMPHONY SPOOKTACULAR
Holland Center of Performing Arts
October 27, 2 pm
1200 Douglas St.
ticketomaha.com
Get ready for a spine-tingling adventure with the Omaha Symphony’s Symphony Spooktacular! This thrilling event invites you to delve into ghostly legends from around the globe, starting with the eerie Legend of the Ghost Light right in their concert hall. Journey through ghost stories and musical traditions from Japan, encounter the haunting La Llorona from Mexico, beware the mischievous fairies of Ireland, and navigate the ominous witches of Germany. Embrace the festive spirit by dressing up in your favorite costume, and arrive early to enjoy engaging lobby activities. All ages are welcome to join Maestro Alejandro and the Omaha Symphony for a night of haunting melodies and international ghostly tales. It’s a spooktacular evening that promises both chills and thrills for the whole family! 402.345.0202
FESTIVAL
3RD ANNUAL MIDWEST CHINGONA FEST
Falconwood Park
October 12, 12 – 11 pm
905 Allied Rd.
laschingonas.net
Inspiring and empowering women will bring the crowds to the third-annual Midwest Chingona Fest in Omaha at an all-new location. Falconwood Park will bring the biggest and best Chingona Fest yet, with a larger food truck lineup, additional vendors, more engaging entertainment, and an improved set up with the same iconic vibes. The name “Chingona” is a Spanish slang word that is used to describe a woman who is independent, successful, and fearless—that’s why Midwest Chingona Fest will uplift the Hispanic women of Omaha during Hispanic Heritage Month! The festival will feature live music, food trucks, mariachi, over 70 vendors, artists, bands, a lowrider show, micheladas, fundraising for local nonprofits, and more. There will be a photo booth and a kids zone to make sure the whole family has a blast. Scholarships are to be given out to young women, as well as the “Chingona Awards,” which will be presented to two women for being excellent role models.
EXHIBITIONS
BECOMING JANE: THE EVOLUTION OF DR. JANE GOODALL
Through October 13, at The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. 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. 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. 402.444.5071
—durhammuseum.org
BENEFIT ART AUCTION EXHIBITION
October 10–October 25, at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S 12th St. The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts brings back its annual Benefit Art Auction Exhibition. See 300 works of art by artists, from local, regional, to national, who are participating in the auction circuit. Up to 50% of the funds go to the artists’ commissions, and the remainder goes straight to Bemis to fund all of their exhibits—which are free to the public—educational programs, performances, and more. 402.341.7130
—bemiscenter.org
RECUERDOS (MEMORIES) – A DAY OF THE DEAD TRIBUTE BY GERARDO “POLLO” DIAZ
October 4 through November 12, at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. This Day of the Dead tribute invites guests to be taken through a visual journey. From the rich stories told and passed down through families, “Recuerdos – A Day of the Dead Tribute” will bring art and the nature of the gardens together. 402.346.4002
—lauritzengardens.org
WICKED PLANTS
October 5 through November 2, at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Showcasing the plants that are poisonous, can paralyze, puncture, intoxicate, eat flesh, or offend in other ways, this exhibit is one for the wicked. Some of these plants are grown in gardens or taken in as houseplants—hidden villains wearing heroes’ capes. Learn about all of the villains of the botanical world and how they cause chaos. 402.346.4002
—lauritzengardens.org
IN THE GALLERY: WICKED PLANTS BY CARMEN MCCULLOUGH
October 4 through November 12, at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Inspired by the Wicked Plants exhibit at the gardens, Carmen McCullough uses mixed media to depict a perspective on the collection. The exhibit is told through the lens of a curious botanist who logs in a sketchbook, takes field notes, and includes photos and observations all in their research journal about the wicked. This storytelling exhibit works alongside the Wicked Plants exhibit to take you on a journey through the mind of a botanist. 402.346.4002
—lauritzengardens.org
EVA LEWITT
Through January 20, at The Joslyn, 2200 Dodge St. See the whimsy of sculpting come to life through Eva Lewitt’s work. Her goal is to challenge the function of materials and space. The exhibit, which will be within The Joslyn’s Riley Contemporary Artists Project Gallery, will force visitors to question their expectation of the space. Lewitt’s work is rooted in play and brings together the abstract styles of minimalism and conceptualism to capture the attention of Omaha. 402.342.3300
—joslyn.org
ED RUSCHA: PAPER
Through February 23, at The Joslyn, 2200 Dodge St. Familiar objects and locations come to life in Ed Ruscha’s pop art works. Born in Omaha in 1937, he is known for how he combines image and text within his pieces. Ruscha’s work is centered around ordinary objects and places, but the twist is the addition of text—he is fascinated by speech and includes witty word play and puns within his pieces. The exhibition includes drawings, prints, and photographs that bring the ordinary into an extraordinary light. 402.342.3300
—joslyn.org
CLÉMENT COGNITORE: LES INDES GALANTES
Through February 23, at The Joslyn, 2200 Dodge St. Clément Cognitore combines cinema, photography, and installations to comment on all notions of the sacred. Ritual and memory come together through this film, which brings together a moving Baroque soundtrack and dance to tell a moving story. The choreography is K.R.U.M.P., a dance style that was formed in Los Angeles as early as the 1960s. Les Indes Galantes takes its title and music from a 1735 opera-ballet by French composer Jean-Philippe Rameau. 402.342.3300
—joslyn.org
CONCERTS
Celtic Thunder
October 3, 7:30 p.m., at Holland Center of Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Renowned Irish vocal group Celtic Thunder brings their Odyssey Tour to Omaha. The group blends the rich traditions of Irish folk music with modern influences, creating a dynamic stage show for audiences of all ages. While rooted in folk, Celtic Thunder also ventures into Broadway, pop, rock, and holiday music, showcasing their versatility beyond the traditional genre. 402.345.0202
—ticketomaha.com
SÄJE
October 4, 7:30 p.m., at Holland Center of Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. The vocal supergroup, säje (rhymes with “beige”), is a powerhouse collaboration among Sara Gazarek, Amanda Taylor, Johnaye Kendrick, and Erin Bentlage. These GRAMMY® Award-winning vocalists, each celebrated for their solo careers, come together to create a dynamic group that pushes the boundaries of jazz. Known for original compositions and interpretations of contemporary classics, säje captivates audiences with their artistry and innovation. 402.345.0202
—ticketomaha.com
MOD SUN & LOVELYTHEBAND
October 9, 7 p.m., at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Here’s Your Flowers Tour brings together Mod Sun and lovelytheband for a dynamic musical experience. Mod Sun, a prolific singer-songwriter with a career spanning over a decade, has collaborated with top artists like Machine Gun Kelly and Avril Lavigne. Initially a drummer for punk bands Scary Kids Scaring Kids and Four Letter Lie, he’s known for his “movement on dreams, stand under none” philosophy. Joining him is lovelytheband, formed in 2017 by Mitchy Collins, Jordan Greenwald, and Sam Price, who create emotionally resonant indie pop anthems that connect deeply with their audience. 402.345.7569
—theslowdown.com
DREION: MADE FOR THIS TOUR – HOLLAND MUSIC CLUB
October 11, 7:30 p.m., at Holland Center of Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, DREION is a dynamic singer-songwriter, musician, producer, and performer known for his electrifying stage presence. His music blends gospel, soul, funk, and R&B, creating a sound that’s both soulful and rhythmic. DREION has shared the stage with legendary artists like Earth, Wind & Fire, Musiq Soulchild, Lalah Hathaway, Bootsy Collins, and J. Ivy. Don’t miss his debut performance at the Holland Music Club! 402.345.0202
—ticketomaha.com
MANIA: THE ABBA TRIBUTE
October 13, 7:30 p.m., at Holland Center of Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Featuring a remarkable lineup of musicians and performers, Mania: The ABBA Tribute delivers an authentic and unforgettable homage to the legendary Swedish band that has charmed fans for generations. With dazzling costumes, choreography, and top-notch musicianship, Mania: The ABBA Tribute captures the essence of ABBA’s music in all its splendor. From “Dancing Queen” to “Waterloo,” “Mamma Mia” to “Take a Chance on Me,” the band passionately performs ABBA’s greatest hits, transporting audiences back to the 1970s. 402.345.0202
—ticketomaha.com
The Awakening Tour
October 17, at Baxter Arena, 2425 S 67th St. The Awakening Tour is set to bring a stellar lineup of contemporary Christian artists to Omaha, featuring performances by Casting Crowns, We The Kingdom, Katy Nichole, David Leonard, Mac Powell, and Terrian. Known for their chart-topping hits, such as Casting Crowns’ “Who Am I” and We The Kingdom’s “Holy Water,” this tour promises to offer a spiritually enriching and uplifting experience for fans of Christian music. 402.554.6200
—baxterarena.com
Korn
October 25, 6:30 p.m., at CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St. Now celebrating the 30th anniversary of their groundbreaking self-titled debut album, Korn (stylized as KoЯn) is hitting the road in 2024. Join them for an unforgettable tour featuring special guests Gojira and Spiritbox. The influential nu metal band from Bakersfield, California, was founded in 1993 by James “Munky” Shaffer, Reginald “Fieldy” Arvizu, and David Silveria, formerly of L.A.P.D. 402.341.1500
—chihealthcenteromaha.com
STAGE PERFORMANCES
SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE – LIVE IN CONCERT
October 3, 7 p.m., at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. Join Miles Morales and his crew as their spider-adventure unfolds on a massive HD screen, accompanied by a live performance of the film’s soundtrack! With the Spider Society center stage, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of a full orchestra, a masterful DJ, and an array of percussion and electronic instruments, making you feel like you’re right in the heart of the action. 402.661.8501
—ticketomaha.com
ANDREW SANTINO: FREEZE PEACH TOUR
October 4, 7:30 p.m., at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. The Andrew Santino: Freeze Peach Tour features Andrew Santino, an American stand-up comedian, actor, and podcaster. Santino is recognized for his roles in television series and films such as “Sin City Saints”, “The Disaster Artist”, “Mixology”, “I’m Dying Up Here”, “Beef”, and “Dave”. He also gained fame as the star of the YouTube web series Duncan Rocks. 402.345.0606
—steelhouseomaha.com
COLD CASE LIVE
October 4, 8 p.m., at The Astro, 8302 City Centre Dr. Cold Case Live offers an immersive journey into the realm of unsolved crimes. This engaging event delves into America’s most infamous cold cases through detailed analyses, firsthand insights, and dramatic reenactments. Hosted by Joe Kennedy, known for Starz TV’s “Wrong Man”, the show guides attendees through the complexities of solving high-profile cases such as The Zodiac Killer, The Golden State Killer, and the JonBenét Ramsey case. At the end, participants can step into the role of detective, engaging in reenactments and Q&A sessions, making critical decisions and comparing their choices to those of real-life investigators. 402.345.7569
—theastrotheater.com
ANGELS IN AMERICA, PART ONE: MILLENNIUM APPROACHES
October 4 through November 3 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. “Angels in America”, winner of a Pulitzer Prize® and Tony Award®, stands as one of the most powerful American plays of the last century. Set during the 1980s AIDS crisis, it follows six interconnected New Yorkers as they confront life, death, love, and the boundaries between heaven and hell. Described as “a gay fantasia on national themes,” the play delves into America’s identity through lenses of suffering, sanctity, and queerness. 402.553.0800
—omahaplayhouse.com
The Thorn
October 5–6 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. The Thorn presents an epic narrative of God’s love and the spiritual struggle for humanity’s soul. This visually stunning and emotionally powerful production depicts the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Often likened to “The Passion of Christ”, The Thorn is an immersive experience that combines live music, gripping drama, aerial performances, movement arts, contemporary dance, and spectacular visual effects. Join over one million fans who have witnessed The Thorn live. 402.661.8501
—ticketomaha.com
THE HUNT FOR SLEEPING GIANTS – NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
October 6, 2 p.m., at Holland Center of Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Embark on a thrilling adventure with Andrés Ruzo in National Geographic Live’s The Hunt for Sleeping Giants, an exploration of Earth’s most awe-inspiring and unpredictable giants: volcanoes. Travel with a fearless team of volcanologists, geologists, and explorers as they cross continents and oceans in search of these powerful forces. National Geographic Live brings top photographers, filmmakers, and adventurers to the stage to share their behind-the-scenes stories. 402.345.0202
—ticketomaha.com
A TASTE OF IRELAND – THE IRISH MUSIC AND DANCE SENSATION
October 12, 7:30 p.m., at Holland Center of Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Fresh from its Off-Broadway debut, A Taste of Ireland –The Irish Music & Dance Sensation is a show that has captivated audiences worldwide. Featuring former World Irish dance champions and dancers from the West End’s Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, A Taste of Ireland takes the audience on a journey through Ireland’s rich and turbulent history, infused with a dash of Irish humor. Experience world-class performers as they deliver folk mash-ups and acapella tap battles. 402.345.0202
—ticketomaha.com
Jersey Boys
Through October 13 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Winner of the Tony Award® for Best Musical, “Jersey Boys” is a thrilling experience that takes you behind the curtain of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Witness their meteoric rise, the struggles they faced, the conflicts they endured, and the eventual triumph of a group whose music defined an era. Featuring chart-topping hits like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” this is a regional debut you won’t want to miss. 402.553.0800
—omahaplayhouse.com
THE PSYCHEDELIC FURS
October 22, 7 p.m., at The Astro, 8302 City Centre Dr. The Psychedelic Furs, emerging from the UK post-punk scene, are celebrated for their blend of rawness and romanticism. Led by Richard Butler and his bassist brother Tim, they scored major hits with “Love My Way,” “Pretty In Pink,” and others. Their latest album, “Made Of Rain”, is their second highest-charting UK album. Renowned for their live performances, they’ve headlined Glastonbury, Radio City Music Hall, and more, continuing to tour globally. 402.345.7569
—theastrotheater.com
Rocky Horror Picture Show
October 23, 8 p.m., at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. Experience “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” like never before at the Orpheum Theater! Join Barry Bostwick, the original “Brad Majors,” for a screening of the classic film in its unedited form, accompanied by a live shadow cast. The evening promises interactive fun with audience participation, a costume contest, and a memorabilia display featuring artifacts and an actual costume from the movie. Don’t miss this immersive and entertaining celebration of a cult classic! 402.661.8501
—ticketomaha.com
WORLD BALLET COMPANY: SWAN LAKE
October 24, 7 p.m., at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. Experience the quintessential ballet with a one-night-only performance by the World Ballet Company. Witness the iconic Dance of the Little Swans, marvel at Odile’s 32 fouettés, and be swept away by Tchaikovsky’s evocative score. The performance showcases the exceptional synchronization of 24 professional ballerinas, creating a breathtaking visual display of this timeless classic. 402.661.8501
—ticketomaha.com
FAMILY, FESTIVALS, & MORE
OMAHA FALL HOME & LIFESTYLE SHOW
October 4–6, at CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St. The Omaha Home & Lifestyle Show provides homeowners with a fantastic opportunity to save on their next home improvement project while connecting with local and national vendors. Explore a wide range of ideas and solutions for remodeling your kitchen, upgrading your outdoor space, or refreshing your home. With numerous experts on hand, this event is your one-stop resource for all your renovation needs. Plus, admission is completely free! Don’t miss out on this chance to jumpstart your home projects. 402.341.1500
—chihealthcenteromaha.com
JUNKSTOCK: HARVEST EDITION
October 4–6, at Sycamore Farms, 1150 River Rd Dr. Junkstock: Harvest Edition is back and better than ever! Dive into a world of vintage treasures, unique antiques, and handmade goods. You can browse through an array of artisan creations while savoring delicious bites from food trucks. Enjoy live music and let your kids have a blast in the Kids Village. This pet-friendly event offers a pumpkin house, hayrack rides, bonfires, and plenty of pumpkins. With children 12 and under admitted free, Junkstock: Harvest Edition combines all the best elements of fall into one enchanting experience. 402.765.8651
—junkstock.com
OMAHA NORTH HILLS POTTERY TOUR
October 5–6, at Florence Mill, 9201 N 30th St. The Omaha North Hills Pottery Tour celebrates its 20th anniversary with an exciting showcase of twenty renowned ceramic artists across four unique stops. This annual event, presented by Dennison Pottery, features a diverse array of styles and functional works, including wall art, tableware, and sculpture. This free, self-guided tour offers a chance to experience clay art firsthand and meet the artists behind the creations. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore working studios and local attractions while enjoying live music, local history, and wine tasting. 402.680.6960
—omahanorthhillspotterytour.com
PORCHFEST OMA – GIFFORD PARK NEIGHBORHOOD
October 6, at Florence Mill, N 33rd & California St. Now in its eighth year, Porchfest OMA is set to light up Omaha’s Gifford Park Neighborhood from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event will feature performances across 12 stages, including the Omaha Mobile Stage at Yates Illuminates, the neighborhood market stage, seven porches, and specialized areas such as a poetry porch, an art porch, and an open mic porch. Over 30 musicians will take the stage, complemented by poetry readings and art displays. Attendees can enjoy local food trucks and neighborhood vendors, with a beer garden at California Bar offering a view of the market stage. Festival gear and local merchant booths will also be on site.
—porchfestoma.tumblr.com
Farnam Fest
October 12, 2–11 p.m., at Blackstone District, 3922 Farnam St. Farnam Fest is the Blackstone District’s highly anticipated annual block party.This autumn celebration, hosted by 2nd Saturday, features a lively lineup of live music, an array of food trucks, and drinks from an outdoor bar. The event promises an exciting day of entertainment and community spirit in one of the district’s largest annual gatherings. Free parking is available in the lot behind Scriptown Brewing, located off Farnam Street between 39th and 40th. 402.505.3247
—blackstonedistrict.com
Spooky Skate
October 18, 6–10 p.m., at Heartland of America Park, 800 Douglas St. Spooky Skate kicks off the Halloween season with a festive party at the Skate Ribbon in Heartland of America Park! Attendees can enjoy a night of frightful fun with games, giveaways, and a costume skate session set to a soundtrack of beloved Halloween songs. Join the family celebration at The RiverFront for a memorable evening of spooky skating! 402.346.8003
—theriverfrontomaha.com
ANIME NEBRASKON 2024
October 18–20 at Mid-America Center, 1 Arena Way. Anime NebrasKon 2024, presented by the Nebraska Japanese Animation Society, is Omaha’s premier anime convention. This event invites attendees to immerse themselves in the worlds of anime, gaming, comics, and pop culture. Featuring over 100 activities, including an arcade, vendors, Q&A sessions, and more, it stands as the largest and longest-running anime convention in the Omaha/Council Bluffs metro area. With a packed three-day schedule, Anime NebrasKon 2024 offers a wealth of activities and opportunities to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts.
—animenebraskon.com
This article originally appeared in the October 2024 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
