Farmers MarketsrGardening season is open in Omaha, and those desiring fresh produce will find plenty of options in the area, along with artisan cheeses, farm-raised meats, freshly baked breads, assorted treats, and craft items.
• Aksarben Village (67th and Center streets) 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays starting May 6
• Council Bluffs (Bayliss Park) 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday starting May 3.
• Gifford Park (33rd and California streets) 5-8 p.m. Fridays starting June 1.
• Florence Mill (9102 N. 30th St.) 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays starting June 3.
• Old Market (11th and Jackson streets) 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays starting May 5
• Papillion (84th and Lincoln Street) 5-8 p.m. Wednesdays starting May 30.
• Village Pointe (168th and Dodge streets) 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays starting May 5.
Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholder’s WeekendrMay 4-6 at CenturyLink Center, 455 N. 10th St. Shareholders in the company created by Oracle of Omaha Warren Buffet can learn about the year’s earning at this annual meeting. Events include the “Invest in Yourself” 5k run, a bridge tournament, shopping, and more. Times vary. 402-341-1500.r—centurylinkcenteromaha.com
Cinco de Mayo ParaderMay 5, along 24 St. from D to L streets. This dazzling parade—one of the largest Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the Midwest—features floats, marching bands, and more. Other event festivities take place May 4-6, before and after the parade along L to P streets. Rain or shine. 10 a.m. Admission: free.r—cincodemayoomaha.com
Beer, Brats & BegoniasrMay 5 at the Garden Gallery, 2721 N. 206th St, Elkhorn. This annual event features art, music, and beer. Event festivities include live music and over 30 artists, along with plants to gaze at: annuals, perennials, tropicals, and hanging baskets. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: free. 402-707-0056.r—the-garden-gallery.blogspot.com
Lantern FestrMay 5 at Raceway Park of the Midlands, Jesup Ave., Pacific Junction. Before sundown, friends and families can enjoy food, live music, a stage show, familiar princesses, face painters, s’mores, balloon artists, and more. When the time is just right, visitors will get the chance to light the sky with their highest hopes and fondest dreams. 3-11 p.m. Admission: $7-$60. 1-800-994-2515.r—omaha.eventful.com
Saturdays @ Stinson Concert SeriesrStarting May 5 at Stinson Park, 2285 S. 67th St. Food, drinks, face painting, and balloon artists will all be available during these live concerts, which feature talented bands in Omaha. 7-10 p.m. Admission: free. 402-496-1616.r—aksarbenvillage.com
Renaissance Festival of NebraskarMay 5-6 and 12-13 at Bellevue Berry Farm, 11001 S. 48th St. Step back in time to the days of knights in shining armor with full contact sword play, equestrian jousting, six unique performance locations, 100+ costumed characters, and free make-and-take crafts. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $13 adults, $8 children. 402-331-5500.r—renfestnebraska.com
Yoga Rocks the ParkrStarting May 6 at Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St. This healing arts festival takes place on Sundays and combines yoga and live music as a way to heal your mind and body. 4 p.m. (3:30 registration). Admission: free; donations accepted.r—midtowncrossing.com
Leashes at LauritzenrMay 7 and 14, June 4 and 11 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Bring your canine friends to explore the grounds and enjoy the outdoors. Heel for family photos, learn about local dog-related nonprofits, and enjoy treats/samples with your pup. 5-8 p.m. Admission: $10 adults and $5 for dogs; free for garden members. 402-346-4002.r—lauritzengardens.org
Soundry Workshop: Instrument BuildingrMay 10 at KANEKO, 1111 Jones St. Adult learners (18 and up) will investigate the art of sound installation, instrument building, and 21st compositional techniques. Participants will be able to create, play, and take home their very own instrument. 6-7 p.m. Admission: $20. 402-341-3800.r—thekaneko.org
Sip Nebraska Wine FestivalrMay 11-12 at Mahoney State Park, 28500 W. Park Hwy. Celebrate spring and wine and this 5th annual wine event highlighting vintages from Nebraska wineries and craft breweries. Live music, unlimited wine, hard cider, craft beer, food, art, and more will be available. 4-10 p.m. (Friday), 1-10 p.m. (Saturday). Admission: $25-$120. 402-882-2448.r—blurparties.com
Celebrate CBrMay 11-12, 19 in Council Bluffs, various locations. Hop across the river for events like Celebrate at The River, a barbecue, a parade, and more festivities. Times vary. Admission: free. 712-396-2494.r—celebratecb.com
Spring Night Hike at the WetlandsrMay 12 at Wetlands Learning Center, 695 Camp Gifford Road. Join in on a night hike in the wetlands as we try to identify any animals we observe. Participants should bring a flashlight or headlamp and dress for the weather. 7-10 p.m. Admission: regular admission, free to members. 402-731-3140r—fontenelleforest.org
Omaha Rollergirls Roller DerbyrMay 12 at Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St. It’s double the action with this double header on Star Wars/Family Night. Get a $1 beer while watching the show, during the first hour only. 6-8 p.m. Admission: $12 adults, $6 children (4-10), free for children 3 and under.r—ralstonarena.com
Florence DaysrMay 12-13 in downtown Florence, 30th St. between State St. and I-680 N. Historic Florence retains its own small-town feeling with this annual event. Activities include a parade, art displays, a melodrama, talks about the historic Florence Mill, and more. 10 a.m. Admission: free.r—historicflorence.org
High Tea and TalonsrMay 13 at Fontenelle Forest, 1111 Bellevue Blvd. Enjoy Mother’s Day surrounded by birds. At this event, guest will enjoy tea, small pastries, and sandwiches while learning about birds of prey. Fancy dress is encouraged. 1-3 p.m. Admission: $5 for members, $15 for non-members (includes daily admission). 402-731-3150r—fontenelleforest.org
2018 national Golden Gloves FinalsrMay 14-19 at Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St. The finals come back to Omaha for the first time since 2006! Top Golden Gloves competitors will vie for the national title. 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Admission: $10. 402-934-9966.r—ralstonarena.com
Kevin HartrMay 17 at CenturyLink Center, 455 N. 10th St. Comedian and actor Kevin Hart brings his stand-up comedy show to Omaha on his “Irresponsible Tour.” 7 p.m. Admission: $35-$125+. 800-745-3000.r—centurylinkcenteromaha.com
Third Annual Food Truck RodeorMay 18 outside Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Here’s a chance to sample some of Omaha’s favorite food on wheels all in one location. 15 food trucks will unite with a DJ and multiple outdoor bars for this local favorite. 4-11 p.m. Admission: free. 402-884-5707.r—reverblounge.com
Elkhorn Antique Flea MarketrMay 20 at Walworth County Fairgrounds, 411 East Court St. This Elkhorn event, held four times a year, hosts over 500 vendors each with their own unique treasures. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Rain or shine. Admission: $5. 414-525-0820.r—nlpromotionsllc.com
Salute to Summer FestivalrMay 24-27 in downtown La Vista. Old-fashioned fun will be available at this annual event, which takes place on Memorial Day weekend. There will be a carnival in Central Park, a parade down Park View Boulevard, and more. Times vary. Admission: free. 402-331-4343.r—cityoflavista.org/lavistadaze
LoessfestrMay 25-28 at River’s Edge Park. Come to Council Bluffs for outdoor activities at this Memorial Day Weekend event. Events include a free community concert, carnival, parade, and much more. Times vary. Admission: free. 712-328-4650.r—loessfest.com
Helicopter DayrMay 26 at Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum, 28210 W. Park Hwy. Visitors can watch helicopters fly away and land right in front of them. Inside the museum, workshops and family-friendly activities await the visitors. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: $12 adults; $6 children. $65 if you want to take a ride in a helicopter. 402-944-3100.r—sacmuseum.org
Vibes at Village PointerStarting May 31 at Village Pointe Shopping Center, 17305 Davenport St. Stop by the shopping center every Thursday for live music. Make sure to bring a blanket or chair. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Admission: free. 402-505-9773.r—villagepointeshopping.com
Benson Beer FestrJune 2 in Benson, 60th and Maple. This beer-lovers’ festival hosts hundreds of breweries, local food vendors, raffles, giveaways, and music for one day. 3-7 p.m. Admission: $35 general, $40 day of event, $45 VIP.r—bensonbeerfest2018.com
Elkhorn DaysrJune 1-3 throughout Elkhorn. This year’s festival is themed “Fun and Games” and features a casino night, hot air balloon rides, a movie night, parade, fireworks display, and other family fun. Times vary. Admission: free. 402-289-9560r—elkhorndays.com
Taste of OmaharJune 1-3 at Omaha Riverfront and Heartland of America Park, 800 Douglas St. This annual food-filled festival features eats from nearly 50 restaurants. Accompanied by live music, entertainment, and activities at Heartland of America Park, Lewis & Clark Landing, and River’s Edge Park. Times vary. Admission: free. 402-346-8003.r—showofficeonline.com
Omaha Oddities and Art ExporJune 2 at Comfort Inn and Suites, 7007 Grover St. This first annual expo and sale will offer a variety of oddities, curiosities, and art from over 30 vendors. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $5 ($4 with can food donation), free for children 13 and under. 402-506-5852.r—voodoosoddshop.com
CastlepaloozarJune 2 at Joslyn Castle, 3902 Davenport St. This community festival will take place on the grounds of the historic Joslyn Castle. Enjoy a historic neighborhood tour on bicycle that concludes on the castle grounds, where live music, family activities, vendors, food trucks, and craft beer will be waiting. 4-10 p.m. Admission: free. 402-595-2199.r—joslyncastle.com
Wine, Beer, Blues, and Balloon FestivalrJune 2 at Soaring Wings Vineyard, 17111 S. 138th St. The 14th annual blues event will feature musical guests Rex Granite Band, Sarah Benck, Connie Hawkins and the Blueswreckers, Keeshea Pratt Band, and Harlis Sweetwater Band. Bring a chair and blanket to take in the music and the hot air balloon show to follow. 4 p.m. Admission: $25 for those 21 and over (includes a glass of wine or beer), $15 for ages 12-20, free for kids under 12. 402-253-2479.r—soaringwingswine.com
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Moo at the ZoorJune 2-3 at Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, 3701 S. 10th St. Meet in the Desert Dome Plaza for an day filled with agriculture. Get up close to multiple breeds of dairy cows and try some country cooking. Dancing, airbrush tattoo, and carnival games will also be available. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: regular zoo admission, free to members. 402-733-8401.r—omahazoo.com
Countryside Village Art FairrJune 2-3 at Countryside Village Shopping Center, 8722 Countryside Plaza. The annual fair showcases a mix of styles, perceptions, and media. The artwork selection inspires casual visitors to start art collections, and connoisseurs to add to existing collections. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: free. 402-391-2200.r—countryside-village.com
Annual Veterans Appreciation RallyrJune 3 near North Omaha Airport, 12005 N. 72nd St. All to honor veterans, this event features classic cars, motorcycles, and airplanes. Activities include raffles and skydiving shows. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: free; $5 donation requested. 402-714-4269.r—@heroesoftheheartlandfoundation on Facebook
Monday Night MoviesrMondays June 4-July 30 at Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St. Laugh, cry, and relax with classic movies under the stars this summer. Children and pets are welcome to enjoy this free night out. Movies begin at dusk. Admission: free.r—midtowncrossing.com
Santa Lucia Italian FestivalrJune 7-10 at Lewis and Clark Landing, 345 Riverfront Drive. Come experience the richness of Italian history and culture at the 94th annual event. Carnival rides, authentic Italian foods, music, and nightly entertainment will all be available. Times vary. Admission: free. 402-342-6632.r—santaluciafestival.com
Summer Arts FestivalrJune 8-10 at Gene Leahy Mall, 1302 Farnam St. Over 135 artists from across the country will showcase and demonstrate their work here. Food and live entertainment also available. Times vary. Admission: free. 402-444-5900.r—summerarts.org
Stars and Stripes DayrJune 9 at Gifford Farms, 700 Camp Gifford Road. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a day at the farm. Be prepared to learn about planets, stars, and constellations, while also seeing a police cruiser, a motorcycle, a firetruck, and farm animals up close and personal. This event is a tribute to those who serve. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Admission: $5 ages 2 and up. 402-597-4920.r—esu3.org
Rose Day and ShowrJune 10 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Join the Omaha Rose Society to promote the culture and appreciation of the rose. See a variety of rose blooms and arrangements on display for judging, visit with rosarians, and explore the rose garden. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: $10 adults, $5 children (6-12), free for children under 6. 402-346-4002.r—lauritzengardens.org
Tempo of TwilightrJune 12, 19, 26 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. This outdoor concert series brings local entertainment to the garden, perfectly blending music and nature. Bring chairs, food, and the family for a night of fun. 6-8 p.m. Admission: regular garden admission, free for members. 402-346-4002.r—lauritzengardens.org
Papillion DaysrJune 13-17 in Papillion. Treat Dad to a festival over Father’s Day weekend. This annual event includes a parade, fireworks, carnival, and much more. Times vary. Admission: $25 for carnival tickets. 402-331-3917.r—papilliondays.org
College World Series Opening DayrJune 15 at TD Ameritrade Park, 1200 Mike Fahey, St. Before the series starts, come to the park for a day full of events, including FanFest, team autograph sessions, practices, Olympic-style opening ceremonies, a concert, and a fireworks finale. Activities begin at 9:10 a.m. Admission: free. 402-554-4422.r—cwsomaha.com
College World SeriesrJune 16-26/27 at TD Ameritrade Park, 1200 Mike Fahey St. This annual baseball tournament offers fans the chance to be a part of a cherished tradition that includes tailgating and cheering on your favorite college baseball teams. 2 or 7 p.m. Admission: $35-$100. 402-554-4422.r—cwsomaha.com
Community Paint DayrJune 16 at The Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. The Union’s Neighborhood Arts program and Creighton University Graphic Design II students led by professor and former Union Fellow Betni Kalk teamed up to complete a new mural design for the Omaha Small Business Network’s Business and Technology Center. All ages and no painting skills necessary to participate. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: free. 402-933-3161r—u-ca.org
Polish FestrJune 23 at Crescent Moon and Huber-Haus German Bier Hall. Try a variety of Polish beers at this festival, which celebrates food and drink from the land that gave us Pope John Paul II. Food includes Polish sausage, glombki, and perogies. Noon-11 p.m. Admission: 402-345-1708.r—beercornerusa.com
Zydeco FestivalrJune 23 at Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St. Enjoy a day of Creole and Cajun-style food, as well as activities and music from artists from throughout the New Orleans region. 3-10 p.m. Admission: free.r—midtowncrossing.com
Omaha Celebrates America, featuring Starship and SurvivorrJune 29 at Memorial Park, 6005 Underwood Ave. Omaha’s 28th annual pre-Fourth of July event will feature music from Starship and Survior, with the Confidentials as the opening act, followed by fireworks. 6 p.m. concert and 10 p.m. fireworks show. Admission: free. 402-444-5900.r—omahacelebratesamerica.com
Heartland Pride FestivalrJune 29-30 at various locations. This festival is about the celebration, recognition, and integration of LGBTQ+ people and culture. Events include a parade in Council Bluffs, a youth pride festival, and a pride festival at Baxter Arena. Times vary. Admission: $52 VIP, $12 festival entrance, free for outdoor festival grounds.r—heartlandpride.org
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Event times and details may change. Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.
