Event times and details may change. Check with venue or event organizer to confirm.
ExhibitionsrStage PerformancesrConcertsrFamily & Morer
Exhibitions
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Patriotic PerchesrThrough July 14 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. The beautifully hand-crafted birdhouses made by Richard Yost educate visitors about state birds and give a unique combination of art, geography, and horticulture knowledge. Admission: $10 adults, $5 children ages 6-12, free for members and children under 6. 402.346.4002.r—lauritzengardens.org
A Regency of Style: Cultural Changes in 18th and 19th Century EuroperThrough July 21 at The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. The French Revolution and technological advances provoked lifestyle, culture, and clothing changes throughout Europe, making clothing a means of individual expression rather than an indication of social status. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children ages 3-12, free for members and children under 2. 402.444.5071.r—durhammuseum.org
Tyrannosaurs: Meet the FamilyrThrough Sept 1 at The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. This exhibition showcases the dinosaurs’ newly revised family tree. The centerpiece of the exhibit is “Scotty,” a replica skeleton of what scientists are calling the largest T. rex. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children ages 3-12, free for members and children under 2. 402.444.5071.r—durhammuseum.org
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The Art of Seating: 200 Years of American DesignrThrough Sept. 8 at Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. This ticketed exhibit shows the imaginative style and creativity found in this seemingly humble piece of furniture. Tickets: $10 general public adults; $5 college students with ID; free for Joslyn members and youth ages 17 and younger. Museum admission: free. 402.342.3300.r—joslyn.org
Agneta Gaines, Joan Fetter, Madelaine HealeyrOpening July 1 at Artists’ Cooperative Gallery, 405 S. 11th St. The woven natural-fiber art of Gaines, intensely colored paintings of Fetter, and pottery of Healey meet in this Nebraska-centered exhibition full of texture. Admission: free. 402.342.9617.r—artistscoopomaha.com
Inner Ear Vision: Sound As MediumrOpening July 11 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. This exhibit is curated by artist Raven Chacon, artist Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe, and art historian Maria Elena Buszek. Admission: free. 402.341.7130.r—bemiscenter.org
Angela Drakeford: HomecomingrOpening July 11 at Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. In her solo exhibit, Omaha-born artist Drakeford explores the power of plants to preserve the human spirit and home gardens as places of temporary refuge from the everyday trauma of racial oppression. This multi-sensory installation brings a variety of plants together with rugs, textiles, vintage furniture, books, field recordings, and a new video. Admission: free. 402.933.3161.r—u-ca.org
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Jenna Johnson, George Skuodas, David LoydrOpening Aug. 1 at Artists’ Cooperative Gallery, 405 S. 11th St. Johnson’s paintings use size, texture, and color to represent the good and bad energies of life and the power of human figures. The figures assembled by Skuodas are filled with whimsy and make one question the definition of “junk.” The abstract work of Loyd will toy with ideas of symmetry. Admission: free. 402.342.9617.r—artistscoopomaha.com
Carol ThompsonrThrough Aug. 2 at Fred Simon Gallery, 1004 Farnam St. Thompson is a Nebraska artist who grew up in Fremont. Her paintings depict objects and elements of nature including delicate flowers and bird nests. Thompson focuses on the painting process and uses elements and principles of design in her compositions. Admission: free. 402.595.2122.r—artscouncil.nebraska.gov
Nebraska Artist BiennialrThrough Aug. 4 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. The 2019 Nebraska Artist Biennial is a juried exhibition featuring 50-plus works from the best artists across Nebraska. Admission: free. 402.305.1510.r—gallery1516.org
Sarah KolarrOpening Aug. 9 at Fred Simon Gallery, 1004 Farnam St. Kolar uses everyday textiles—like old T-shirts—to explore societal and political routines in her fiber art. Admission: free. 402.595.2122.r—artscouncil.nebraska.gov
Garth Williams: Illustrator of the CenturyrThrough Aug. 11 at Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. The exhibit will feature artwork by Williams, including illustrations from Charlotte’s Web and Little House on the Prairie, cartoons from his time at The New Yorker, and more. Admission: free. 402.342.3300.r—joslyn.org
Contemporary TextilesrThrough Aug. 18 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. Marcela Diaz uses traditional fibers of henequen, cotton, and coconut to create handwoven pieces using the textile art from Yucatan. Admission: $5 adults, $4 college students, $3.50 seniors (55+) and students K-12, free for members and children under 5. 402.731.1137.r—elmuseolatino.org
3 From NebraskarOpening Aug. 25 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. This exhibit features the work of three 20th century Nebraska artists: Eugene Kingman, Augustus Dunbier, and Robert Gilder. Admission: free. 402.305.1510.r—gallery1516.org
Traditional MasksrThrough Aug. 31 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. This exhibition showcases a selection of masks created to be worn during annual celebrations, and festivals, and while performing traditional dances. Admission: $5 adults, $4 college students, $3.50 seniors (55+) and students K-12, free for members and children under 5. 402.731.1137.r—elmuseolatino.org
Stage Performances
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Shakespeare on the Green: HamletrJuly 2, 3, and 6 at Elmwood Park, 411 1/2 N. Elmwood Road. After the death of his father and the wedding between his mother and uncle, Hamlet sets out to avenge his father’s death. The event includes pre-show entertainment. 8 p.m. Admission: free. 402.280.2391.r—nebraskashakespeare.com
Shakespeare on the Green: All’s Well That Ends WellrJuly 5 and 7 at Elmwood Park, 411 1/2 N. Elmwood Road. All’s Well That Ends Well tells the story of one woman’s obsessive love. It is performed by Juno’s Swans, the all-female ensemble. Chairs or blankets are acceptable, and pre-show entertainment is available. 8 p.m. Admission: free. 402.280.2391.r—nebraskashakespeare.com
Andy WoodhullrJuly 5-7 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Woodhull has been featured on The Late Late Show, Conan, Comedy Central, and The Tonight Show: Staring Jimmy Fallon. 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $17-$47. 402.493.8036.r—omaha.funnybone.com
Plays Out Loud! Summer Reading Series: Days of AbsencerJuly 12-13 at the Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. Plays Out Loud! is a readers' theater series. Days of Absence by Douglas Turner Ward is a satire that speaks to race relations in an imaginary Southern town. 7 p.m. Tickets: $5 advanced, free general admission. 402.933-3161.r—u-ca.org
Chris PorterrJuly 18-20 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Porter was a finalist on season 4 of NBC’s Last Comic Standing and has a comedy special, “Ugly & Angry.” 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $17-$47. 402.493.8036.r—omaha.funnybone.com
Brit FloydrJuly 19 at the Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. This Pink Floyd tribute show comes to Omaha to celebrate the 40th anniversary celebration of The Wall. 8 p.m. Tickets: $35-$155. 402.345-0606.r—ticketomaha.com
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Omaha Under the RadarrJuly 24-27 at various locations. This annual event gives Midwestern and national performers the chance to connect and learn through dance and theatrical performances, art discussions, workshops, and other educational opportunities. Times vary. Tickets: $10 single event pass, $25 Saturday pass, $50 festival pass, $100 VIP pass.r—undertheradaromaha.com
Eddie IfftrAug. 1-3 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Ifft has made numerous appearances on late-night shows such as Chelsea Lately and Last Comic Standing, and currently hosts his own podcast, The Bingle Show. 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $17-$47. 402.493.8036.r—omaha.funnybone.com
Billy McGuigan’s Rock TwistrAug. 2-18 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. This live concert experience combines classic rock ’n’ roll hits with a big band twist. The show will cover a variety of artists from The Doors to Frank Sinatra. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $42. 402.553.0800.r—omahaplayhouse.com
Jessimae PelusorAug. 8-10 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Best known for starring on MTV’s Girl Code, Peluso is now a stand-up comedian. She also has two weekly podcasts, Sharp Tongue and Highlarious. 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $17-$47. 402.493.8036.r—omaha.funnybone.com
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SweatrAug. 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.r—omahaplayhouse.com
Squeeze My Cans: Surviving ScientologyrAug. 16-18 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This theatrical performance takes the audience on the roller coaster ride that is Scientology. Friday and Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 6 p.m. Tickets: $20. 402.884.5707.r—reverblounge.com
PAW Patrol Live!rAug. 17-18 at the Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. The six beloved “rescue” dogs from Nickelodeon’s children’s show PAW Patrol are brought to life on a live stage. These pirate pups need all paws on deck to find the hidden treasure and save the day. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets: $22-$135. 402.345.0606.r—ticketomaha.com
John CristrAug. 20 and 21 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Comedian and viral sensation Crist has been named one of the “Top Five Comics to Watch.” Crist’s humor sometimes revolves around the local church. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $17-$47. 402.493.8036.r—omaha.funnybone.com
Plays Out Loud! Summer Reading Series: Simply HeavenlyrAug. 23-24 at the Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. Plays Out Loud! is a readers theater series. This play by Langston Hughes follows the lead character, Simple, as he must choose between responsibility and temptation. 7 p.m. Tickets: $5 advanced, free general admission. 402.933.3161.r—u-ca.org
Christian Nodal Ahora TourrAug. 24 at the Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Mexican singer and songwriter Christian Nodal will perform his “mariacheño,” along with several surprises and mixes unique to this performance. 9 p.m. Tickets: $50-$140. 402.345.0606.r—ticketomaha.com
CONCERTS
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Free Concerts:rThis summer, several places will offer an eclectic array of live music from local musicians. These concert series, offered throughout Omaha, provide a fun night out.rJazz on the Green (Turner Park at Midtown Crossing, 3110 Farnam St.): 7:30 p.m. Thursdays July 11-Aug. 15.rMusic and Memories (Shadow Lake Towne Center, 72nd Street and Highway 370): 6:30 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 9.rMusic and Movies (La Vista Public Library, 9110 Giles Road): 7 p.m. July 19 and Aug. 9.rMusic in the Park (Bayliss Park, 100 Pearl St., Council Bluffs): 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays through July 24.rMusic in the Park (Washington Park, 20th and Franklin streets, Bellevue): 7 p.m. Thursdays through July 25.rRockbrook Village (108th and Center streets): 7 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 30.rSaturdays @ Stinson (Stinson Park, 2285 S. 67th St.): 7 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 24.rVibes (Village Pointe, 17305 Davenport St.): 6:30 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 15.
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The BlastersrJuly 2 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. This group performs rock ’n’ roll, country, and blues-infused music with passion and honesty. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25 advanced, $30 day of show. 402.884.5353.r—waitingroomlounge.com
Car Seat HeadrestrJuly 3 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. This American indie rock band performs a high-energy concert that will open with a set from the Naked Giants. 8 p.m. Tickets: $23 advanced, $25 day of show. 402.884.5353.r—waitingroomlounge.com
Young the GiantrJuly 3 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Los Angeles quintet Young the Giant delivers powerful arrangements with adventurous spirit on their new album, Mirror Master. 8 p.m. Tickets: $37 general admission, $152-$232 VIP packages. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
Nebraska Wind Symphony Summer ConcertrJuly 4 at SumTur Amphitheater, 11691 S. 108th St. This Fourth of July concert will feature the 2019 Nebraska Wind Symphony scholarship award winner and euphonium player Nestor Pelayo performing "The Yellow Rose of Texas." 6 p.m. Tickets: free. 402.216.0122.r—nebraskawindsymphony.com
As Cities BurnrJuly 5 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. The progressive post-hardcore sound of As Cities Burn will be evident on their Scream Through the Walls Tour. All Get Out and Many Rooms will be opening. 7 p.m. Tickets: $18 advanced, $20 day of show. 402.391.2554.r—lookoutomaha.com
Tab BenoitrJuly 7 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Benoit’s most recent album Medicine features an energetic sound. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25 advanced, $30 day of show. 402.884.5353.r—waitingroomlounge.com
Jason MrazrJuly 14 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Mraz performs crowd-pleasing melodies, cheeky humor, and thoughtful lyrics. 8 p.m. Tickets: $42-$105. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
MichiganderrJuly 17 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Michigander features a full band in their live shows performed by frontman Jason Singer. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12. 402.884.5707.r—reverblounge.com
Hullabaloo Music FestivalrJuly 18-21 at Falconwood Park, 905 Allied Road, Bellevue. This music festival includes local and regional bands, DJs, artists, food vendors, and a variety of activities in an intimate setting. Guests can camp on the grounds throughout the weekend. Times vary. Tickets: $30 day pass, $80 weekend pass. 402.210.4747.r—hullabaloomusicfestival.com
Chris StapletonrJuly 19 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. Grammy-nominated Chris Stapleton, known for “Tennessee Whiskey,” and “Parachute,” brings country, rock 'n' roll, and bluegrass rhythms to Omaha. 7 p.m. Tickets: $40-$90. 402.341.1500.r—chihealthcenteromaha.com
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Earth, Wind & FirerJuly 19 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Critically acclaimed funk band Earth, Wind & Fire are the performers of 1970s hits such as “September” and “Boogie Wonderland.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $50-$123. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
Diana RossrJuly 20 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. The iconic R&B superstar is known for hit songs such as “I’m Coming Out” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $45-105. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
Tempo of TwilightrTuesday evenings though July 23 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Guests can bring chairs, food, and beverages and listen to music on the manicured Lauritzen green. The café will serve a limited menu. 6 p.m. Admission: $10 adults, $5 children ages 6-12, free for members and children under 6. 402.346.4002.r—lauritzengardens.org
BaronessrJuly 26 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. This metal band from Savannah, Georgia, has seen some turnover in members since they formed in 2003, but guitarist and vocalist John Baizley and his powerful sound has not changed. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25 advanced, $28 day of show. 402.884.5353.r—waitingroomlounge.com
Bush and LiverJuly 27 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. 1990s icons Bush and Live are joining forces with special guest Our Lady Peace. 8 p.m. Tickets: $45-$193. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
Rock & Roll SuiciderJuly 27 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This Omaha band performs covers of full-length albums by Prince, Talking Heads, Bruce Springsteen, and more. 9 p.m. Tickets: $7 advanced, $10 day of show. 402.884.5707.r—reverblounge.com
Wu-Tang ClanrAug. 1 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan is known for hits such as “Protect Ya Neck” and “Bring da Ruckus.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $55-$110. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
Big Daddy WeaverAug. 2 at Bellevue Christian Center, 1400 Harvell Drive, Bellevue. Contemporary Christian band Big Daddy Weave is composed of a six-person ensemble, accompanied by violinist Jonathan Chu and cellist Becca Bradley. 7 p.m. Tickets: $15-$75. 402.291.0616.r—bellevuechristian.com
O.A.R.rAug. 3 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. 1990s band O.A.R. (Of a Revolution) is best known for “Shattered (Turn the Car Around)” and “Peace.” Artists American Authors and Rozzi open. 8 p.m. Tickets: $40-$103. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
Stef ChurarAug. 7 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. In Stef Chura’s debut studio album, Messes, she reflects on her experiences performing in the Michigan underground scene. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12. 402.884.5707.r—reverblounge.com
Gary Clark Jr. with The Peterson BrothersrAug. 8 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. The electrifying Gary Clark Jr. is taking the stage with The Peterson Brothers. Clark is a rock-and-soul omnivore who can survey the entire landscape of American music. 8 p.m. Tickets: $39-$153. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & The ConspiratorsrAug. 9 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. This group brings an electrifying guitar and high-wire, lyrical solos. 8 p.m. Tickets: $35-$133. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
The SamplesrAug. 10 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Sean Kelly and his band delight fans with music that transcends genres and ages, and shatters the rules of the established music industry. 8 p.m. Tickets: $30 advanced, $80 meet-and-greet. 402.884.5353.r—waitingroomlounge.com
Maha Music FestivalrAug. 14-17 at various locations. This summer music festival showcases a vibrant, eclectic mix of national and local musicians and artists. This year’s lineup includes Lizzo, Jenny Lewis, Courtney Barnett, Matt and Kim, Oh Sees, DUCKWRTH, and more. 4 p.m. Wednesday, 7 p.m. Thursday, 5 p.m. Friday, and 1 p.m. Saturday. Tickets: $10-$320.r—mahafestival.com
PinbackrAug. 15 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. In their four albums over a dozen years, Pinback has perfected their hybrid of pop, folk, rock, reggae, and funk, growing to be one of the most popular and well-respected pop bands of the last decade. (Note: this is also the opening band for Maha.) 7 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.884.5353.r—waitingroomlounge.com
Ben Harper & The Innocent CriminalsrAug. 15 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Best known for “Steal My Kisses,” Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals team up with the New Orleans-tinged rock, funk, and soul group Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue for a fun and funky summer tour. 8 p.m. Tickets: $44-$106. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
Opera OutdoorsrAug. 23 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 p.m. Tickets: free. 402.346.7372.r—operaomaha.org
Ringo Starr & His All Starr BandrAug. 23 at Stir Concert Cove, 1 Harrah’s Blvd., Council Bluffs. Ringo Starr’s All Starr Band features Toto’s Steve Lukather, Santana’s Gregg Rolie, Men at Work’s Colin Hay, multi-instrumentalist Warren Ham, drummer Gregg Bissonette, and Hamish Stuart. In a night of classic hits, each band member will bring songs like “Africa” and “Yellow Submarine” to the set. 8 p.m. Tickets: $55-$182. 712.329.6000.r—caesars.com/harrahs-council-bluffs/shows
PetRockrAug. 23 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. PetRock brings the sights and sounds of 1970s rock to life—minus the disco. 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.884.5353.r—waitingroomlounge.com
José GonzálezrAug. 28 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Swedish singer-songwriter José González delivers tender, yet impactful acoustic arrangements, punctuated with soft vocals and thoughtful lyrics. 7 p.m. Tickets $30 advanced, $35 day of show. 402.345.7569.r—theslowdown.com
rFamily & More
rFarmer's 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.rCouncil Bluffs (Bayliss Park) 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays.rOld Market (11th and Jackson streets) 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays.rVillage Pointe (168th and Dodge streets) 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays.rAksarben Village (67th and Center streets) 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays.rPapillion (84th and Lincoln streets) 5-8 p.m. Wednesdays starting May 29.rNight Market (Turner Park @ Midtown Crossing) 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Last Friday of the month starting May 31.rFlorence Mill (9102 N. 30th St.) 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays starting June 2.rRockbrook Village (108th and Center streets) 4-7 p.m. Wednesdays starting June 5.rGifford Park (33rd and California streets) 5-8 p.m. Fridays starting June 7.r
Free MoviesrLaugh, cry, and relax with classic and current movies on starry summer nights. Bring a blanket or a chair, and the whole family. All movies begin at dusk.rMonday Night Movies at Midtown Crossing (Turner Park, 3110 Farnam St.): through July 29.rMusic & Movies in the Park (Bayliss Park, 100 Pearl St., Council Bluffs, IA.): Fridays through July 26.rStarlight Movies (SumTur Amphitheater, 11691 S. 108th St., Papillion, NE.): July 5, Aug. 2, andrAug. 16.
Turner Park Night MarketrMay 31-Sept. 27 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.r—midtowncrossing.com/events
Summer Street SeriesrJuly-September in Benson, Military Avenue & Maple Street. Benson First Friday takes to the street for the summer months. This fresh take on the monthly community event will feature interactive and live artists, an artist's market, performers, food vendors, and activities for all ages. 5 p.m. Admission: free.r—bensonfirstfriday.com
Leashes at LauritzenrJuly 1 and 8, Aug. 5 and 12 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.r—lauritzengardens.org
Ralston’s Annual Independence Day CelebrationrJuly 4 in Downtown Ralston, 7400 Main St. This year’s theme is “Independence Day the Ralston Way,” as this community tradition continues with a fun run, live music, parade, fire department water fight, chicken dinner, beer garden, and a spectacular firework show. Times vary. Admission: free. 402.339.7737.r—ralstonareachamber.org/independence-day
Douglas County FairrJuly 11-14 at Village Pointe, 17305 Davenport St. This is a celebration of the county where urban and rural meet, with something for everyone—live music, a parade, and a livestock show at Chance Ridge Event Center. Times vary. Admission: free.r—douglascountyfair.org
RiverJam, “The Woodstock 50th Anniversary Experience”rJuly 12-14 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. 402.953.4731.r—omahablues.com
Railroad DaysrJuly 13-14 at various locations. Visitors can explore the exhibits and collections at five of the area’s railroad-themed attractions—Lauritzen Gardens, the Durham Museum, RailsWest Railroad Museum, Union Pacific Railroad Museum, and the Historic General Dodge House. One pass includes admission and transportation between all five locations. 9 a.m. Tickets: $15 family pass, $5 single pass. 402.501.3841.r—omaharailroaddays.com
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Brew at the ZoorJuly 13 at Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, 3701 S. 10th St. Guests can stroll through the upper part of the zoo, listen to live music, eat, and play games while sampling unique brews from local breweries. 8 p.m. Tickets: $70 for members, $80 for non-members, $120 VIP admission. 402.733.8401.r—omahazoo.com
UNleash Council BluffsrJuly 20 in downtown Council Bluffs. This Missouri River city will host a party for the 20,000-30,000 bicyclists as the starting point for this year’s RAGBRAI. The public is welcome to this event, which includes opening ceremonies, food, and music by Taxi Driver and the Polka Police. Noon. Admission: free. 712.256.2577.r—ragbraicb.com
Benson DaysrJuly 27-28 along 60th and Maple streets. Benson Days is a family-friendly summer festival that celebrates the neighborhood’s creative culture. Saturday’s activities include a pancake breakfast, parade, street festival, and beer garden. The Indie 5K/10K Race will be held Sunday morning. Times vary. Admission: free.r—bensondays.com
The Color Run 5KrJuly 27 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.r—thecolorrun.com
Nebraska Asian FestivalrJuly 27 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.r—nebraskaasianfestival.com
Fairytale BallrJuly 27 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. This enchanting night at the museum is filled with encounters from 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.r—ocm.org
New American Arts FestivalrAug. 2 in Benson at Military Ave. and Maple St. This festival celebrates the arts, ideas, and cultures of Omaha’s refugee and immigrant communities with workshops, performances, art, food, and music. 4 p.m. Admission: free. 402.342.6164.r—@BensonFirstFriday on Facebook
River’s Edge Taco FestrAug. 3 at Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park, 4200 Avenue B, Council Bluffs. Fifteen of the area’s best taco-centric restaurants will offer a wide range of mouthwatering taco creations. The day will include national and local musical performances, live Lucha Libre wrestling matches, and the Chihuahua beauty pageant and race. 11 a.m. Tickets: $20 advanced general admission, $30 general admission, $100 VIP pass.r—riversedgetacofest.comrPlease note: This event was cancelled on June 17, 2019 due to flooding.
Nebraska Balloon and Wine FestivalrAug. 9-10 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.r—showofficeonline.com/NebraskaWineBalloon
Maha DiscoveryrAug. 15 at MCC Center for Advanced and Emerging Technology, 5300 N. 30th St. This conference, formerly known as Big Omaha, celebrates entrepreneurship and innovation. Speakers include media theorist and author Douglas Rushkoff, Partpic co-founder Jewel Burks Solomon and Martha Legg Miller, a small business advocate for the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Tickets include entry to Maha Music Festival. 8 a.m. Tickets: $135-$240.r—mahafestival.com
RIVER FEST 2019rAugust 16-17 at American Heroes Park, Bellevue. This festival will include helicopter rides, a pancake breakfast, carnival, car show, beer garden, a fireworks display, and performances by Red Delicious and High Heel. 5 p.m. Friday, 7 a.m. Saturday. Admission: $1. 402.898.3000.r—@Bellevuemusicfestival on Facebook
Omaha Fashion WeekrAug. 18-24 at Omaha Design Center, 1502 Cuming St. Omaha Fashion Week is the nation’s fifth-largest fashion event, showcasing 65-plus designers each year on the runway and providing mentoring, educational opportunities, and a professional showcasing platform. 6 p.m. Tickets: $40-$80. 402.937.1061.r—omahafashionweek.com
Millard DaysrAug. 20-25 at Andersen Park, 136th and Q Streets. This full week of activities includes a parade, a carnival, a beer garden, horse shows, tractor pulls, and live music. Times vary. Admission: free, $25 for carnival. 402.679.5258.r—millarddays.com
Arts Block PartyrAug. 24 at Cass St. between 72nd and 69th streets. Guests can tour the Omaha Community Playhouse, Omaha Conservatory of Music, and Omaha Academy of Ballet, eat, watch live performances, and more. 10 a.m. Admission: free.r—artsblockpartyomaha.com
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Dundee DayrAug. 24 in Dundee, 50th Street and Underwood Avenue This street festival celebrates and highlights the Dundee neighborhood with a parade, 5K run, art and craft vendors, book sale, pancake breakfast, food trucks, live music, and a beer garden. 8:30 a.m. Admission: free.r—dundeeday.org
Loessfest 2019rAug. 30-Sept. 1 at Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park, 4200 Avenue B, Council Bluffs. LoessFest is a weekend extravaganza featuring musical performances, family attractions, food vendors, and open-air movie screenings.r—loessfest.com
SeptemberfestrAug. 30-Sept. 2 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, parade, beer garden, and food. Times vary. Admission: $7 per person per day, parade is free.r—septemberfestomaha.org
This calendar was printed in the July/August edition of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
