Exhibitions
Jenal Dolson
Through July 31 at BFF Omaha, 2729 N. 62nd St. This exhibition features paintings composed of abstract structures and shapes in bright colors as well as mixed media sprinkled throughout the space. Admission: free. 402-203-5488.
–bffomaha.org/petshop
pro:create Art Show
Starting Aug. 7 at BFF Omaha, 2729 N. 62nd St. This art show is family-centric, focusing on artwork collaborations between children and their parents. Admission: free.
—bffomaha.org/petshop
Claudia Wieser: Generations
Through Aug. 15 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. This exhibition is an intimate view of Claudia Wieser’s work from the last seven years. Through mixed media, Wieser references spirituality and mysticism. Admission: free. 402-341-7130.
—bemiscenter.org
Liv Schulman: The Gobernment
Through September 19 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. This exhibition is a collection of visual media focusing on women, lesbian, and genderqueer artists who lived in Paris between 1910 and 1980. Admission: free. 402-341-7130.
—bemiscenter.org
“The Cutting Edge” First Friday Reception
July 3, online and at The Passageway Gallery, 417 S. 11th St. Take a first look at Danielle Easdale’s paper exhibition at this First Friday Reception. Admission: free. 6-9 p.m. 402-341-1910.
—facebook.com/passagewaygallery
First Friday Reception
Aug. 7 online and at The Passageway Gallery, 417 S. 11th St. Take a first look at featured artist Ashley Stevens’ photography exhibition and Rhonda Bruggeman’s glass exhibition at this First Friday Reception. 6-9 p.m. Admission: free. 402-341-1910.
—facebook.com/passagewaygallery
Stage Performances
Billy McGuigan’s Pop Rock Orchestra
Aug. 7-16 at the Hawks Mainstage Theatre of Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. For a special series of rock ‘n’ roll shows, Billy McGuigan has offered to give 100% of his proceeds back to Omaha Performing Arts once 3,000 tickets have been sold. Times vary. Admission: $38. 402-553-0800.
—omahaplayhouse.com
Stephen Lynch
Aug. 13 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Sit back and enjoy this two-in-one comedy and music performance. 8 p.m. Tickets: $30-$50. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
Nick Swardson
Aug. 28-29 at Omaha Funny Bone, 17305 Davenport St. As a writer, producer, and director for “Grandma’s Boy” and “The Benchwarmers,” Nick Swardson has become a fixture in Happy Madison Productions. Times vary. Tickets: $35-$65. 402-493-8036.
—omaha.funnybone.com
Concerts
Free Concerts
Bridge Beats (Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, 705 Riverfront Dr.): 6-9 p.m. Fridays from July 17-Aug. 14.
Rockbrook Village (108th and Center streets): 7 p.m. Fridays from July 3-Aug. 28.
Jazz on Your Green
Thursday evenings in July, online. In lieu of hosting concerts on the Midtown Crossing green, the Omaha Performing Arts team will be streaming live jazz performances via Facebook and YouTube. 6 p.m.
—facebook.com/pg/OmahaPerformingArtsOrg/videos/
Saturday Night Livestreams
Ongoing, online. Omaha Live Music is streaming live music from artists across the metro. Free, tipping encouraged. Saturday nights at 7 p.m.
—facebook.com/Omahalivemusic
The Good Life
July 3 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. This four-member indie rock band, named after Nebraska’s original state slogan, returns to Omaha to celebrate the 16th anniversary of the release of their LP titled Album of the Year. 9 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Andrea Von Kampen
July 10 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Lincoln-based Andrea Von Kampen delivers wistful vocals to Midwest-inspired lyrics. 8 p.m. Tickets: $13 advanced, $15 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
High Heel
July 11 at Stinson Park, 2232 S. 64th St. This band fronted by high heel-clad vocalist Lisa Larsen performs popular classic rock, country, and disco hits from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Admission: free. 7 p.m. 402-672-6816.
—highheeltheband.com
Reggae Gold
July 17 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Get together and be alright at this dance party featuring reggae hits curated by local DJs. Doors: 9 p.m. Tickets: $10. 21+ only. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
The Shineys
July 18 at O’Leaver’s, 1322 S. Saddle Creek Road Omaha-based Tica Felise and Carrie Ann Buchanan lend smoky and sultry vocals to original music and cover songs. Vince Giambattista and Fox will also perform. 10 p.m. Tickets: $5 (21+). 402-556-1238.
—oleavers.com
Reverend Horton Heat
July 23 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Punk-infused rockabilly meets revelator gone sinner in this high-octane show. 8 p.m. Tickets: $20. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Pottery
July 25 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Groove along to the dreamy yet jarring songs of this Montreal-based band. 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 advanced, $12 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
David Archuleta
July 27 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. “Crush” singer and winner of season 7 of American Idol, David Archuleta comes to Omaha following the release of his new album, Therapy Sessions. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25-$165. Doors 7 p.m. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
The Dollyrots
July 27 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. Jump around to the sounds of this sunny-sounding punk trio. 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 advanced, $13 day of show. 402-391-2554.
—lookoutomaha.com
The Growlers
July 28 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Disco-infused surf rock meets outlaw country in hits such as “Dope on a Rope” and “When You Were Made.” 9 p.m. Tickets: $32.50 advanced, $45 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
Chuck Prophet & The Mission Express
July 30 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Chuck Prophet comes to Omaha following the May release of his single, “Willie and Nilli.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $17 advanced, $20 day of show. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Randall King
July 31 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Randall King embodies classic Texas ’90s country with a modern touch in songs such as “Mirror, Mirror” and “Takin’ Me a Heartbreak.” 9 p.m. Tickets $15. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Tennis
Aug. 3 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Following the release of Swimmer, Tennis brings their indie pop sound to Omaha. 9 p.m. Tickets: $18 advanced, $20 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
Nappy Roots
Aug. 4 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. This southern rap quartet produces hip hop music that pulls from all genres and examines reason and truth through their lyrics. 8 p.m. Tickets: $20 advanced, $25 day of show. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Late Night Radio and Daily Bread
Aug. 7 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Late Night Radio and Daily Bread will co-headline a night of DJs, hip hop, funk, and fun. 9 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
David Ryan Harris
Aug. 8 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. A singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, David Ryan Harris performs soul-filled vocals. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 general, $60 VIP. 402-884-5707.
—reverblounge.com
Paul Festerberg & The Impediments
Aug. 8 at O’Leaver’s, 1322 S. Saddle Creek Road Paul Festerberg & The Impediments will perform the hits of 1980s indie rock band The Replacements, including titles such as “Androgynous” and “Swingin Party.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $5 (21+). 402-556-1238.
—oleavers.com
Tiny Moving Parts
Aug. 10 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. A self-described “family band,” Tiny Moving Parts carries a pop-punk and emo sound throughout their music and tackles issues such as mental health and morality in their lyrics. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $17 advanced, $20 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
John Moreland
Aug. 11 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Following the release of his most recent album, LP5, John Moreland delivers poetry in the form of folksy acoustic sets. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 advanced, $17 day of show. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Wild Rivers
Aug. 11 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. A culmination of folk, indie, and country, Wild Rivers drives home autobiographical lyrics with easygoing vocals. 8 p.m. Tickets: $16 advanced, $18 day of show. 402-884-5707.
—reverblounge.com
Brandy Clark
Aug. 12 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. At least partially responsible for writing hits such as “Follow Your Arrow” (Kacey Musgraves) and “Mama’s Broken Heart” (Miranda Lambert), Brandy Clark has also made a name for herself over the past decade as a country singer. 8 p.m. Tickets: $29 advanced, $34 day of show. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Cycles
Aug. 12 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Inspired by Rage Against the Machine and Primus, Cycle achieves a unique prog-rock sound. Omaha-based Mr. E & the Stringless Kite and Slow Stoics will also perform. 8 p.m. Tickets $10 advanced, $12 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
Dan + Shay
Aug. 13 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. Country pop artists responsible for songs such as “10,000 Hours” and “Speechless” perform. 7 p.m. Tickets: $36.50-$225. 402-341-1500.
—chihealthcenteromaha.com
Flaw
Aug. 13 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. Hard rock and nu-metal group Flaw performs songs such as “Persistence” and “Get Up Again.” 7 p.m. Tickets: $13 advanced, $15 day of show. 402-391-2554.
—lookoutomaha.com
The Floozies
Aug. 13 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Electronic meets futuristic funk in songs such as “Nothing to Lose” and “Funk Jesus.” 8:30 p.m. Tickets $22 advanced, $25 day of show. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Marco Antonio Solis
Aug. 14 at Baxter Arena, 2427 S. 67th St. Especially popular in Mexico, Marco Antonio Solis is known for his numerous albums, as well as for lending his voice to Ernesto de la Cruz, the main antagonist of Coco. 8 p.m. Tickets: $59-$179. 402-554-6200.
—baxterarena.com
Ouija Macc
Aug. 14 at Lookout Lounge, 320 S. 72nd St. Prepare yourself for a night of hardcore rap from Ouija Macc, Rozz Dyliams, and Death Plus. 7 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402-391-2554.
—lookoutomaha.com
The Hip Abduction
Aug. 14 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Chill out with indie and alternative pop songs such as “All I Need” and “Holiday.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
Anna Burch
Aug. 15 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. The singer’s second album, If You’re Dreaming, takes listeners down a different path than her first, shedding nervous energy in favor of a deeper exploration of an internal world. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12. 402-884-5707.
—reverblounge.com
Built to Spill
Aug. 15 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. The eclectic, upbeat, and slightly off-kilter indie rock of Built to Spill was the result of hours of experimentation. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Petfest 2020
Aug. 15 at BFF Omaha, 2729 N. 62nd St. This popular local festival plans to feature drag performances by Queer Nite, live grafiti by Ryan T. Kinsch, and music from many local artists, such as All Young Girls Are Machine Guns and Bach Mai. 2 p.m. 402-203-5488.
—bffomaha/petshop
The Secret Sisters
Aug. 16 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Haunting harmonies, twangy smoky vocals, and sweeping strings collide to create witchy Southern rock songs such as “Iuka” and “He’s Fine.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $20. 402-884-5353.
—waitingroomlounge.com
Styx
Aug. 18 at Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St. The ’70s and ’80s rock band responsible for hits such as “Renegade” and “Come Sail Away” perform. 7 p.m. Tickets: $39.50-$125. 402-934-9966.
—ralstonarena.com
Good to be King
Aug. 21 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. This cover band performs hits from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
Dummy Head Torpedo
Aug. 22 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Omaha-based Dummy Head Torpedo delivers fast-paced hard rock. Scabby Ghouls and Blandford also perform. 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $8 advanced, $10 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
Hillsong Worship
Aug. 22 at Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $26.50-$199. 402-934-9966.
—ralstonarena.com
The Garden
Aug. 24 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The Australian Christian music worship group, responsible for “Who You Say I Am” and “What a Beautiful Name,” performs. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 advanced, $18 day of show. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
Ryan Summers
Aug. 29 at The Barley Street Tavern, 2735 N. 62nd St. This critically acclaimed electronic artist specializes in live looping guitar, keyboard, and voice. 9 p.m. $7 Cover (21+). 9 p.m. 402-408-0028.
—barleystreet.com
Family & More
Farmer’s Market
Check individual venues for guidelines on social distancing and restrictions on pets.
-Council Bluffs (Bayliss Park) 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays.
-Old Market (10th and Jackson streets, 1011 Jackson St.) 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays.
-Village Pointe (168th and Dodge streets) 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays.
-Aksarben Village (Baxter Arena Parking Lot 26, 2425 S. 67th St.) 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays.
-Papillion (Papillion Landing, 1046 W. Lincoln St.) 5:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays. [This location will be a non-traditional drive-through. The order form is online. More information at facebook.com/papillionfarmersmarket]
-Gifford Park (Gifford Park Neighborhood Market, 520 N. 33rd St.) 5-8 p.m. Fridays.
Benson First Fridays
First Friday of each month in Downtown Benson, Military Avenue and 60th Street. Visit artists and vendors and grab a bite to eat along the Benson strip. 5 p.m. Admission: free. 402-203-5488.
—bffomaha.org
Leashes at Lauritzen
First two Monday evenings of July and August at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Take your pups for a scenic stroll in the gardens. Two dogs permitted per adult. 5-8 p.m. Admission: $10 for non-member adults, $5 for non-member dogs and children ages 6-12, free for members and children under 6. 402-346-4002.
—lauritzengardens.org
Concert and Fireworks Show
July 3 at Rockbrook Village, 2800 S. 110th Court. The U.S. Air Force Heartland of America band and The Brits will perform ahead of the fireworks show. Concert: 7-9:30 p.m., fireworks 10 p.m. Admission: free. 402-390-0890.
—rockbrookvillage.com
Science Cafe
July 14 at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Scientists speak about a socially relevant topic, followed by a Q&A session. The first 50 people to arrive receive free pizza. Doors open at 6. Admission: free. Ages 21+. 402-345-7569.
—theslowdown.com
Fifth Annual Food Truck Rodeo
July 17 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Munch on cuisine from 15 different food trucks and sip on a drink from the beer garden or one of the outdoor bars. 4-11 p.m. Admission: free. 402-203-6145.
—reverblounge.com
Nebraska Brick Days
July 18-19 at Mid America Center, 1 Arena Way, Council Bluffs. LEGO fans unite! Guests can build brick structures at play-brick tables, enter contests and play games to win prizes, stare in awe at LEGO creations, and buy goodies from LEGO vendors. Admission: $9 adults, $5 children under 8, $25-$50 VIP packages. Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 402-434-5040.
—brickdayscom
Omaha Beer Fest
July 18 at Horsemen’s Park, 6303 Q St. Drink samples of craft beer, seltzers, ciders, hard sodas, and wine at Nebraska’s largest craft beer festival while listening to live music including local bands Hi-Fi Hangover and Lemon Fresh Day. Home brewers will be allowed to participate this year. $35 advance, $40 day of, $65 VIP. 4-11:30 p.m. 21+. 402-731-2900.
—omahabeerfest.com
Eighth Annual Ribstock BBQ Festival
July 25 at Stinson Park, 2232 S. 64th St. Guests can sink their teeth into barbecue dishes from 12 different local vendors and watch a cornhole tournament. While there will be an ATM on site, vendors and bars will be accepting cash only. Admission: free. Noon – 10 p.m. 402-981-3171.
—ribstockbbq.com
Pick a Pooch Adoption Days and Pet Expo
July 25-26 at Baxter Arena, 2427 S. 67th St. Visit pooches looking for foster and forever homes, learn about volunteering with Northern Plains Boxer Rescue, and browse vendors. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 402-639-5235.
—www.petsinomaha.com
Fiber Arts Festival
Aug. 1-2 at Bancroft Street Market, 2702 S. 10th St. Meet people with an interest in stitching, needlework, textiles, sewing, paper making and basket weaving, and support fiber vendors and artists while taking a class or workshop over the weekend. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m. Admission: $10/day or $15 weekend pass. 213-375-5911.
—fiberartsfestivalomaha.com
New American Arts Festival
Aug. 7 at Military Avenue & Maple Street. A brainchild of Lutheran Family Services and BFF Omaha, this festival features artwork, performances, and cuisine crafted by New Americans (refugees and immigrants). Peruse the street artist market or attend a workshop along the Benson strip. Admission: free. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 402-203-5488.
—bffomaha.org
Back to School Family Night
Aug. 8 at Gifford Farm Education Center, 700 Camp Gifford Road. Guests can experience hands-on demonstrations from the farm, take a hayride, and visit the animals. Admission: $5 ages 2 and older, free for educators, day care workers, and mentors who show their work I.D. Cash or check only. 5:30 – 8 p.m. 402-597-4920.
—esu3.org/GF/Home
Doggie Dip
Aug. 9 at Benson Gallagher Pool, 2936 N. 52nd St., and Lee Valley Pool, 10605 Charles St. Bring your pup to a fun day at the pool. Admission: $5 for each dog, which covers two handlers, $1 for each additional human. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 402-444-7800.
—nehumanesociety.org
23rd Annual Taste of Omaha
Aug. 14-16 at Elmwood Park, 67th and Pacific streets. This food-centric event temporarily relocates to Elmwood due to the Riverfront Re-development Project. Set your tastebuds on everything from pizza and barbecued ribs to tacos and dumplings or take a stroll in the wine and beer gardens. While getting your fill of the metro’s best food, watch performances from Flemenco and Irish Dancers, or take your children to the amusement rides or family-friendly entertainment. Admission: free. Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sunday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. 402-346-8003.
—tasteofomaha.info
High Vibe Festival
Aug. 28-29 at Aksarben Village, 67th and Center Streets. Spend the whole weekend practicing yoga, nourishing your body with plant-based foods and drinks, attending workshops, seminars, and panels designed to expand your mind. Admission: $128. Saturday 2-9 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m.-7 p.m. 402-281-4218.
—highvibefestival.com
The Midwest Pirate Fest
Aug. 29-30 at Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch, 11001 S. 48th St. Visit pirates, mermaids, and fairies and watch fantastical skits and music shows at this family-friendly event. Admission: $12 adults, $7 children ages 12 and younger, free for children 2 and under. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 402-301-0901.
—mwpiratefest.com
This calendar first appeared in the July/August 2020 issue of Omaha Magazine.
