July/August 2021 Calendar of Events

Museums

Charley Friedman: Soundtracks for the Present Future
Through Aug. 1 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. Experience this immersive auditory installation that combines over 70 secondhand guitars, mandolins, and basses to create a singular instrument. Soundtracks for the Present Future explores ideas around decentralization and diversity through the multiplicity of distinct instruments. 402.341.7130.
–bemiscenter.org

Nebraska Artist Biennial
Through Aug. 1 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. The 2021 Nebraska Artist Biennial is a juried exhibition. Ultimately, 100 artists representing a variety of artistic styles and disciplines were selected this year. Admission: free. 402-305-1510.
–gallery1516.org

Atiim Jones: Crossroads
Through Aug. 7 at Fred Simon Gallery 1004 Farnam St. Jones is a Minneapolis-born street photographer based in Omaha, Nebraska. In 2010, he began photographing strangers in the Old Market District, and in 2011 created Crossroads, a photographic documentary of people in the Old Market and surrounding area. It has since become one of the largest photography projects in the world. 402-595-2122.
–artscouncil.nebraska.gov

Salvador Dali’s Stairway to Heaven
Through Aug. 14 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. Curated by David S. Rubin, this exhibition presents a comparative study of two of Salvador Dalí’s most celebrated portfolios, his book illustrations for the Comte de Lautréamont’s Les Chants de Maldoror (1868-69) and Dante Alighieri’s The Divine Comedy (c. 1308-20), and includes 143 prints signed by Salvador Dalí (43 prints for Les Chants de Maldoror, and 100 prints for The Divine Comedy). Admission: $5 adults, $4 college students, $3.50 students and seniors, and free for members. Wed-Fri: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
–elmuseolatino.org

Fairytale Land
Through Aug. 29 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. An enchanting castle adventure awaits at the museum, where visitors can scale the castle wall, visit Bentley the unicorn, or prepare a feast in the castle kitchen. Admission: $14 nonmembers, adults, and children ages 2-17, $13 seniors (60+), and free for members and children under 24 months. 9-4 p.m. 402.342.6164.
–ocm.org

American Art Deco: Designing for the People (1918-1939)
Through Sept. 5 at Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. This ticketed exhibition investigates a dynamic period in American history and culture, when the country and its citizens went through political, economic, social, and artistic transformation and revolution. From stylish decorative art objects to products of industrial design, modern American paintings to compelling photographic images, the multimedia works of art in this exhibition reflect both the glamour and optimism of the 1920s and the marginalization, devastation, and escapism of the 1930s. Admission: $10 adults; $5 college students with ID; free for Joslyn members and youth ages 17 and younger. Wednesday through Sunday: 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. 402.342.3300.
–joslyn.org

Diedrick Brackens
Through Sept. 5 at Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. Drawing on global textile and weaving traditions, Diedrick Brackens creates intricate tapestries that interrogate personal stories and shared cultural realities. 402.342.3300.
–joslyn.org

James Cameron – Challenging The Deep
Through Sept. 12 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. The exhibition follows explorer and filmmaker James Cameron’s achievements in deep-ocean science, engineering, and exploration and features his record-breaking dive to the bottom of the earth in his Deepsea Challenger submersible. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children ages 3-12, and free for members and children ages 2 and under. Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sundays: noon-4 p.m. 402.444.5071.
–durhammuseum.org

All Together, Amongst Many: Reflections on Empathy
Through Sept. 19 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. This exhibit explores the cultural and sociopolitical issues currently defining the United States. While it is not an exhaustive survey, it provides a snapshot of America’s turbulent society today. 402.341.7130.
–bemiscenter.org

Game On!
Through Dec. 31 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. This interactive children’s exhibit brings well-known board games and popular video games to real-life adventures. Admission: $14 nonmembers, adults, and children ages 2-17, $13 seniors (60+), and free for members and children under 24 months. 9-4 p.m. 402.342.6164.
–ocm.org

Nick Cave’s Soundsuits: Ensemble
Aug. 11-21 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. In this mini exhibition, internationally known Chicago-based artist Nick Cave’s Soundsuits, from the collections of Betiana and Todd Simon, Karen and Robert Duncan, Kathy and Marc LeBaron, and Polina and Bob Schlott are brought together. Soundsuits will travel to the Simon residence for the Summer Arts Encounter event on August 29. 402.341.7130.
–bemiscenter.org

Catboy, Owlette, & Gekko
Aug. 20-22 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. This is the museum’s first-ever PJ Masks-themed weekend, featuring character appearances, a DIY mask station, and more. Admission: $14 nonmembers, adults, and children ages 2-17, $13 seniors (60+), and free for members and children under 24 months. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 402.342.6164.
–ocm.org

Stage Performances

American Ballet Theatre Across America
July 1 at The Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St. ABT is one of the great dance companies in the world and is internationally celebrated as a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and extending the great legacy of classical dancing. 8:15 p.m. Tickets: $5-$50. 402.472.4747.
–liedcenter.org

Eddie Griffin
July 9-10 at The Waiting Room, The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Griffin is a popular comedian turned actor who started his career onstage as a dare. His comedy special Eddie Griffin: Undeniable is currently airing on Showtime to rave reviews. Times vary. Tickets: $40. 402.884.5353.
–waitingroomlounge.com

Power Hour
July 10 at The Backline, 1618 Harney St. This show lines up some of the area’s best comedians to each do quick sets of their best material. If you want a taste of the best comics in the region (and sometimes special guests), jam-packed into just over an hour, then this is the show to watch. 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $5 402.720.7670.
–backlinecomedy.com

Lorenzo “Renny” Cromwell
July 16 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Renny is an accomplished social media star and stand-up comedian whose comedic videos have garnered more than 3 million followers, including Diddy, Rihanna, Wale, and Drake. Times vary. Tickets: $20. 402.884.5707.
–reverblounge.com

Christopher Titus
July 22 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Titus is an American comedian, actor, and podcaster. He starred in his own network TV show, simply called Titus, and now has his own podcast. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $25. 402-493-8036.
–omaha.funnybone.com

Iliza: Back In Action Tour
July 22 at Holland Center Outdoors, 1200 Douglas St. Over the course of 10 years, comedian Iliza Shlesinger has gone from winning NBC’s Last Comic Standing to premiering her fifth Netflix stand-up special UnVeiled in November 2019. 7 p.m. Tickets: $49.50-$106. 402.345.0606.
–ticketomaha.com

Paula Poundstone
July 24 at The Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St. A revered panelist on NPR’s Wait, Wait . . . Don’t Tell Me, Paula Poundstone was the first woman to host the White House Correspondents’ Dinner and is the recipient of an American Comedy Award for Best Female Stand-up Comic. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $16-$42. 402.472.4747.
–liedcenter.org

Rave On! Presents: Buddy. The Buddy Holly Story
July 30 at SumTur Amphitheater, 11691 S. 108th St. Papillion. This performance tells the true story of Holly’s meteoric rise to fame, from the moment in 1957 when “That’ll Be The Day” hit the airwaves until his tragic death less than two years later on “The Day the Music Died.” The show features over 20 of Buddy Holly’s greatest hits. 402.597.2000.
–papillion.org

Jo Koy: Just Kidding World Tour
July 30 at Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St. As one of today’s premiere stand-up comics, Koy has come a long way from his modest beginnings performing at a Las Vegas coffee house. He has appeared on over 140 episodes of Chelsea Lately as well as many other late-night shows. 8 p.m. Tickets: $45.50-$189.50. 402.934.9966.
–ralstonarena.com

Damon Wayans
July 30 to Aug. 1 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Wayans is a stand-up comedian, actor, writer, producer, and member of the Wayans family of entertainers. Wayans performed as a comedian and actor throughout the 1980s, including a year-long stint on the sketch comedy series Saturday Night Live. Times vary. Tickets: $50. 402.493.8036.
–omaha.funnybone.com

Omaha Fringe Festival
Aug. 5-7 and Aug. 12-14 at Weber Fine Arts Building, 6505 University Drive S. and Big Canvas Theatre, 3624 Farnam St. The Omaha Fringe Festival is two weekends of live theater created, produced, directed, and performed by Omaha artists. The lineup consists of multiple performances throughout the festival. Times vary. Tickets: $10 individual show ticket, $25 day pass, $50 festival pass.
–omahafringe.com

Omaha Under the Radar
Aug. 7 at various locations. This annual event gives Midwestern and national performers the chance to connect and learn. While the festival will be different this year, the organization will still be producing their SOUNDRY Workshop for sound art and experimental music. There will be both online and in-person options available. There is a tuition, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Times vary. Tickets: TBD
–undertheradaromaha.com

Aubree Sweeney & Friends
Aug. 14 at The Backline, 1618 Harney St. Sweeney is a nationally touring comedian. She is currently based in Los Angeles, but loves to come home to Nebraska. Join her and some of her comedian friends for an evening of comedy, music and storytelling. 7 p.m. Tickets: $10. 402.720.7670.
–backlinecomedy.com

Sweat
Aug. 16-Sept. 15 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Winner of the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for drama, Sweat follows a group of American steelworkers who lose their economic security. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $18-36. 402-553-0800.
–omahaplayhouse.com

Dear Jack, Dear Louise
Aug. 20-Sept. 19 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. A heartwarming recount of wartime romance between two strangers, stitched together from hundreds of real-life letters between the playwright’s parents. Jack is an Army doctor stationed in Oregon, accomplished and disciplined. Louise is an aspiring actress in the heart of NYC, bubbly and ambitious. Times vary. Tickets: TBD 402-553-0800.
–omahaplayhouse.com

Bellydance Hafla
Aug. 21 at Apollon Art Space, 1801 Vinton St. This dance performance will feature local dancers, and is open to the public. Enjoy beautiful dancing while listening to wonderful global music. Limited seating and performance slots are available, and pre-registration is strongly encouraged. 6-8 p.m. Tickets: $10. 402.884.0135.
–apollonomaha.com

Brad Williams
Aug. 27 and 28 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Williams is a stand-up comedian and actor who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including Mind of Mencia. Times vary. Tickets: $25. 402-493-8036.
–omaha.funnybone.com

Concerts

Free Concerts:
This summer, several places will offer an eclectic array of live music from local musicians. These concert series, offered in some of Omaha’s most vibrant areas, will provide a fun night out.

Jazz on the Green (Turner Park at Midtown Crossing, 3110 Farnam St.): 7:30 p.m. Thursdays July.
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Music and Memories (Shadow Lake Towne Center, 72nd Street and Highway 370): 6:30 p.m. Fridays.
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Music in the Park (Bayliss Park, 100 Pearl St., Council Bluffs): 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays.
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Music in the Park (Washington Park, 20th and Franklin streets, Bellevue): 7 p.m. Thursdays.
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Rockbrook Village Friday Night Concert Series (108th and Center streets): 7 p.m. Fridays.
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Saturdays @ Stinson Concert Series (Stinson Park, 2285 S. 67th St.): 7 p.m. Saturdays.
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Village Pointe Vibes (Village Pointe, 17305 Davenport St.): 6:30 p.m. Thursdays.

Jocelyn
July 2 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Omaha native Jocelyn combines her observant, mature outlook on life, love, and music to write amazing, memorable songs that stick in your head. This show was originally scheduled for May 15, 2021. All previously purchased tickets will be honored and do not need to be changed, updated, or reprinted. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 advance, $20 DOS. 402.345.7569.
–theslowdown.com

Bennie and the Gents
July 2 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. This is a local glitter rock tribute band that formed nine years ago. The group plays the music of David Bowie, Queen, Alice Cooper, and other heroes of ’70s glam rock. 9 p.m. Tickets: $12 advance, $15 DOS. 402.884.5353.
–waitingroomlounge.com

Steve Earle & The Dukes
July 8 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Steve Earle is one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of his generation, a worthy heir to Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, his two musical mentors. He is a master storyteller whose songs have been recorded by a vast array of artists, including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Joan Baez. 8 p.m. $40 advance, $45 DOS. 402.884.5353.
–waitingroomlounge.com

Three Dog Night
July 10 at Holland Center Outdoors, 1200 Douglas St. Legendary American rock band Three Dog Night’s hits weave through the fabric of pop culture today. They have had 21 hit singles, including 11 Top Tens, and 12 consecutive gold albums. 7 p.m. Tickets: $39-$99. 402.345.0606.
–ticketomaha.com

Cody Canada and The Departed
July 14 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This group is a three-piece Americana roots-rock band based in New Braunfels, Texas. The band is comprised of frontman Cody Canada, bassist Jeremy Plato, and drummer Eric Hansen. 8 p.m. Tickets: $20. 402.884.5707.
–reverbloung.com

The Docksiders
July 16 at Holland Center Outdoors, 1200 Douglas St. This lively group is known as America’s favorite Yacht Rock tribute band. Led by three-time Grammy® nominee, Kevin Sucher, The Docksiders bring their tribute act of your favorite soft rock songs of the ’70s and ’80s. 7 p.m. Tickets: $18-$35. 402.345.0606.
–ticketomaha.com

Eli Young Band
July 17 at Holland Center Outdoors, 1200 Douglas St. While selling out venues as a headliner from coast-to-coast, Eli Young Band has toured with Jason Aldean, Dave Matthews Band, Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts, Toby Keith, Tim McGraw, and Darius Rucker. This performance includes special guest Pony Creek. 7 p.m. Tickets: $20-$60. 402.345.0606.
–ticketomaha.com

Skid Row
July 17 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Infamous ‘80s hair band Skid Row are gearing up to perform at the cove with glam metal rockers Dokken and Vixen. Don’t miss your chance to experience Skid Row’s signature energy live in concert. 8 p.m. Tickets: $39.50-$161. 712-329-6000.
–caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows

Southern Avenue
July 23 at Holland Center Outdoors, 1200 Douglas St. This band’s performances have electrified live shows in over a dozen countries and wowed audiences at festivals such as Bonnaroo, Firefly, Electric Forest, and Lockn’ with their boundary-breaking Memphis soul/blues/R&B fusion music. Local group Kris Lager Band will open the show. 7 p.m. Tickets: $18-$35. 402.345.0606.
–ticketomaha.com

Nick Shoulders
July 24 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Shoulders is a living link to the roots of country music with a penchant for the absurd. His creative output is steeped in the complicated history of his beloved home of rural Arkansas, but crafted as a conscious rebuke of country music’s blind allegiance to historical seats of power and repression. 7 p.m. Tickets: $12 advance, $15 DOS. 402.345.7569.
–theslowdown.com

Maha Music Festival
July 28 to Aug. 1 at Stinson Park, 2285 S. 67th St. This summer music festival showcases a vibrant, eclectic mix of national and local musicians and artists. This year’s lineup includes Thundercat, Khruangbin, Drive-By Truckers, and more. Opening night will be housed at multiple venues, followed by a day-long conference on Thursday, and performances on Friday and Saturday. 4 p.m. Wednesday, 8 a.m. Thursday, 5 p.m. Friday, 1 p.m. Saturday. Tickets: TBD.
–mahafestival.com

Billy McGuigan’s Pop Rock Orchestra
Aug. 5-7 and Aug. 13-15 at SumTur Amphitheater, 11691 S. 108th St.. Papillion. McGuigan and his 14-piece rock orchestra present a high-energy concoction of rock ‘n’ roll mega hits in a unique, live concert experience. They will take you on a journey through ’50s rock, the psychedelic ’60s, and the sweet sounds of the ’70s. 402.597.2000.
–papillion.org

Bach Mai: Album Release Show
Aug. 6 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. This local indie pop punk band leans on lyrical content, pop punk tropes, and percussive nuance to garner the attention of their listeners. J. Crum and Steady Wells will also perform. 7 p.m. Tickets: $8 advance, $10 DOS. 402.345.7569.
–theslowdown.com

Jackopierce
Aug 12 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Jack O’Neill and Cary Pierce, the “Jack O” and “Pierce” who make up the seminal duo Jackopierce, are celebrating 30 years of making music that has amassed a loyal following of millions of fans across the world. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25. 402.884.5707.
–reverbloung.com

Melissa Etheridge: 2021 Tour
Aug. 14 at Holland Center Outdoors, 1200 Douglas St. Etheridge stormed onto the American rock scene in 1988 with the release of her critically acclaimed self-titled debut album. Known for her confessional lyrics and raspy, smoky vocals, she has remained one of America’s favorite female singer-songwriters for more than two decades. 7 p.m. Tickets: $54.50-$399 (VIP w/ photo op.) 402.345.0606.
–ticketomaha.com

Brothers Osborne
Aug. 14 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. The duo’s third studio album Skeletons is a melodic, muscular album that builds on the hooks of the band’s career-launching debut, Pawn Shop. The brothers carved their own path in country music, and with six Grammy nominations, four CMA Awards, five ACM trophies, and more than half a dozen hits, it’s clearly working for them. 8 p.m. Tickets: $49-$163. 712-329-6000.
–caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows

Blake Shelton: Friends and Heroes 2021
Aug. 18 at CHI Health Center, 455 N. 10th St. Shelton is bringing his show and some of his favorite friends to Omaha. Watch Shelton, Martina McBride, Tracy Byrd, Trace Adkins, and Lindsay Ell take to the stage again. 7 p.m. Tickets: $36-$359. 402.341.1500.
–chihealthcenteromaha.com

Shakey Graves
Aug. 19 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Alejandro Rose-Garcia, aka Shakey Graves, is an Americana musician from Austin, Texas. His music combines blues, folk, country, and rock. He released his breakthrough debut album, Roll the Bones, a decade ago on Bandcamp. It’s been sitting atop the most downloaded folk records rankings since then. 7 p.m. Tickets: $28 advance, $30 DOS. 402.345.7569.
–theslowdown.com

Opera Outdoors
Aug. 20 at Turner Park at Midtown Crossing, 3110 Farnam St. This free opera concert under the stars features highlights from the coming season as well as some of opera’s greatest hits. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: free. 402-346-7372.
–operaomaha.org

Singer-Songwriter Showcase
Aug. 26 at Holland Center Outdoors, 1200 Douglas St. In partnership with the Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards (OEAAs), OPA presents a showcase giving aspiring songwriters the opportunity to share their talent. One artist will be selected to open for The Alternate Routes at Holland Center Outdoors September 2. The event is free, but a suggested donation of $10 is encouraged upon entry. Proceeds will directly benefit the talent being featured. 6:30 p.m. 402.345.0606.
–ticketomaha.com

Memorial Park Concert
Aug. 28 at Memorial Park. Enjoy this free annual celebration with a Fireworks Grand Finale. Musical guest TBA.

Hippie Fest
August 28 at Falconwood Park, 905 Allied Road, Bellevue. This live music event features bohemian shopping, vintage hippie car show, DIY tie-dye, giant bubble garden, cirque performers, kids activities, drum circles, delicious food, cocktail bar, beer, dancing, and more. All ages welcome. Tickets: $15-25, kids 10 and under free. 402.332.5771.
–gosarpy.com

Family & More

Farmers Markets
Farmers Markets are open. Here are the times and dates for the local markets. Attendees are encouraged to check with organizers for availability before attending any market.

Aksarben Village (67th and Center streets)
br9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays
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Bellevue (Washington Park) 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Council Bluffs (Bayliss Park) 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays
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Florence Mill (N. 30th Street) 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday
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Gifford Park Neighborhood Market (33rd and California streets) 5-8 p.m. Fridays
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Old Market (11th and Jackson streets) 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays
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Village Pointe (168th and Dodge streets) 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays
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Papillion (84th and Lincoln streets) 5-8 p.m. Wednesdays
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Free Movies
Laugh, cry, and relax with classic and current movies on starry summer nights. Bring a blanket or a chair and the whole family and enjoy the show. All movies begin at dusk.

Free Friday Summer Movies at Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard (19475 225th St. Council Bluffs): through Aug. 27.
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Monday Night Movies at Midtown Crossing (Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St.): through July 28.
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Music & Movies in the Park (Bayliss Park, 100 Pearl St., Council Bluffs, IA.): Fridays through July 26.
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Starlight Movies (SumTur Amphitheater, 11691 S. 108th St., Papillion, NE.): TBA.

The 3rd Annual Council Bluffs Tattoo Arts Convention
July 2-4 at Mid-America Center, 1 Arena Way, Council Bluffs. Special guest this year is Al Fliction from Ink Master, season one. Admission is free for children under 12. Tickets: $20 day pass, $40 weekend pass. 712.323.0536.
–villainarts.com

Leashes at Lauritzen
July 5 and 12 and Aug. 2 and 9 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Canines are invited to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors. This is an informal, fun way to enjoy and explore Lauritzen’s 100 acres and miles of trail with the family and four-legged friends. 6 p.m. Tickets: $10 for non-members, $5 for dogs, free for members. 402-346-4002.
–lauritzengardens.org

Turner Park Night Market
July 16- Sept. 10 at Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St. The Omaha Farmer’s Market and Turner Park bring visitors family-friendly activities, vendors, food, entertainment, and more. 6-10 p.m. last Friday of each month. Admission: free.
–midtowncrossing.com/events/

Ralston’s Annual Independence Day Celebration
July 4 in Downtown Ralston, 7400 Main St. This year’s theme is “Tribute to Essential Workers,” as the Fourth of July Ralston community tradition continues with a fun run/walk, parade, fire department water fight, a spectacular firework show, and more. Times vary. Admission: free. 402-339-7737.
–ralstonareachamber.org/independence-day

Douglas County Fair
July 11-14 at Sycamore Farms, 1150 River Road Drive, Waterloo. This is a celebration of the county where urban and rural meet, with something for everyone: live music, the parade, and a livestock show. Times vary. Admission: free.
–douglascountyfair.org

RiverJam “The Woodstock 50th Anniversary Experience”
July 16-18 at Riverwest Park, 23301 West Maple Road. RiverJam will pay tribute to the greatest music festival of all time—Woodstock. With more than 40 DJs, bands, and artists performing on three stages, food trucks, a beer garden, vendors, and more. Times vary. Tickets: $15-$325.
–eventbrite.com

8th Annual Ribstock
July 24 at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village. This celebration of great barbecue also features craft beer and live music from local favorite Lemon Fresh Day. Proceeds benefit the Food Bank for the Heartland, Project WeeCare, and the Millard Business Association scholarship fund. Admission: $5. 402.496.1616.
–aksarbenvillage.com

Benson Days
July 30 to Aug. 1 along 60th and Maple streets. Benson Days is a family-friendly summer festival that celebrates the neighborhood’s creative culture. Friday features a movie night in Gallagher Park with food trucks. On Saturday, take a tour of Benson’s historic buildings, and Sunday attendees can take a bike ride through the neighborhood. Those are just a few highlights of the weekend. Email bensondaysne@gmail.com for more information. Admission: free.
–bensondays.com

The Color Run 5K
TBA at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. The popular traveling 5K returns to Omaha. Participants run the route while paint powder colors the streets—and the runners. 8 a.m. Tickets: $25-$50 adults, $15 children ages 5 and under.
–thecolorrun.com

Nebraska Asian Festival
TBA at Lewis and Clark Landing, 515 N. Riverfront Drive. This family-oriented event celebrates, promotes, and educates the public on Asian heritage. Guests can enjoy food, fun activities, and cultural performances throughout the day. 11 a.m. Admission: $5, free for children under 12. 402-216-9081.
–facebook.com/AsianFestivalNebraska

Fairytale Ball
July 23-25 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. This enchanting night at the museum is filled with encounters with princesses and princes, horse-drawn carriage rides, a wishing well, and activities including crafts and archery training. Dinner is included and costumes are encouraged. 6 p.m. Tickets: $20 for members, $35 for non-members. 402-342-6164.
–ocm.org

New American Arts Festival
Aug. 6 in Benson at Military Ave. and Maple St. Due to COVID-19, their typical street festival will now be a hybrid of gallery-operated in-person exhibits, featured artisans at local retailers, food trucks, satellite on-street stages, as well as virtual performances. 5-10 p.m. Admission: free. 402-342-6164.
–bffomaha.org

Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival
Aug. 20-21 at Ta-Ha-Zouka Park, Elkhorn. As the name implies, guests can sip Nebraska wines and view hot air balloon launches. 5 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. Saturday. Tickets: $19 wine-tasting package at the gate, $15 wine-tasting package in advance, $14 general admission, $7 children under 12, children 5 and under free. 402-346-8003.
–showofficeonline.com/NebraskaWineBalloon

PETFEST 2021
Aug. 14 at Petshop, 2725 N. 62nd St. This is Benson First Friday’s Annual Music Festival Fundraiser, with an incredible lineup of local musicians, drag performances, and live painting. Times vary. Tickets: $20 advance, $25 DOS. Email info@bffomaha.org for more information.
–bffomaha.org

Omaha Fashion Week
Aug. 26-28 at Omaha Design Center, 1502 Cuming St. OFW is returning to the runway for another season of fashion and glamour. It is the nation’s fifth-largest fashion event, showcasing designers each year on the runway and providing mentoring, education opportunities, and a professional showcasing platform. Times vary. Tickets: $40-$80. 402-937-1061.
–omahafashionweek.com

Millard Days
Aug. 24-29 at Andersen Park, 136th and Q Streets. This full week of activities includes a parade, a carnival, a beer garden, tractor pull, and live music. Times vary. Admission: free, $25 for carnival. 402-679-5258.
–millarddays.com

Arts Block Party
Aug. 14 at Cass St. between 72nd and 69th Streets. Guests can tour the Omaha Community Playhouse, Omaha Conservatory of Music, and Omaha Academy of Ballet. There will be live music and performances, interactive demonstrations for the kids, food, and raffle prizes galore. 10 a.m. Admission: free.
–artsblockpartyomaha.com

Dundee Day
Aug. 21 in Dundee, 50th St. and Underwood Ave. This family-friendly street festival celebrates and highlights the Dundee neighborhood with a parade, 5k run, art and craft vendors, pancake breakfast, food trucks, live music, and a beer garden. 8:30 a.m. Admission: free.
–dundeeday.org

Septemberfest
Sept. 3-6 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. This “Salute to Labor” festival offers four days of entertainment, educational and artistic displays, a carnival, Omaha’s largest parade, a beer garden, and food. Times vary. Admission: $5 per person per day, parade is free, –septemberfestomaha.org

Event times and details are correct as of presstime, but are subject to change. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many events are canceling and/or changing dates/time/places as needed. Most venues base these decisions on direction by the Douglas County Health Department and Nebraska’s publication of guidance on canceling events and limiting the number of people in public gatherings.

Omaha Magazine encourages readers to visit venues’ websites and/or calling ahead before attending an event or visiting a museum.

This article originally appeared in the July/August 2021 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.