Major Events & Festivals in Omaha, United States
1. Omaha Stream-to-Sea Legacy Landscape Conservation
A unique initiative that aims to connect riverfront parks and natural areas from the city to the Missouri River. It offers a chance for visitors to appreciate Omaha's natural beauty.
- Nature Exploration: Offers a variety of flora and fauna sightings
- Outdoor Activities: Includes hiking, birdwatching, and photography opportunities
- Environmental Education: Promotes understanding of ecosystems and conservation efforts
2. Joslyn Art Museum
A renowned museum showcasing American art from the 19th and 20th centuries, along with an impressive collection of European old masters.
- Art Appreciation: Provides a rich historical perspective on American and European art
- Temporary Exhibits: Regularly features rotating exhibitions from various artists and time periods
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, lectures, and family-friendly activities
3. Omaha's Riverfront Farmer's Market
A vibrant market featuring local produce, handmade crafts, and live entertainment. It provides a taste of Nebraska's agricultural bounty.
- Local Produce: Offers fresh fruits, vegetables, and other farm goods
- Cultural Experience: Showcases the diverse culture of Omaha's community
- Artisanal Goods: Features locally made crafts, food items, and other unique products
4. Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
One of the world's premier zoos and aquariums with unique exhibits like the Desert Dome and the Great Plains of North America. Home to over 17,000 animals.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers close-up views of a diverse range of animal species
- Educational Programs: Includes animal feedings, keeper talks, and interactive exhibits
- Conservation Efforts: Supports various conservation programs focused on species survival
5. Old Market Entertainment District
A historic district offering shopping, dining, and entertainment in restored 19th-century buildings. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique local businesses.
- Local Shopping: Features eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores
- Dining Experience: Offers a variety of cuisines from around the world
- Entertainment Options: Includes live music, comedy clubs, and art performances
6. Omaha's Annual River City Irish Fest
A celebration of Irish culture with live music, dance performances, and traditional food. Held annually in June.
- Cultural Immersion: Provides a deep dive into Irish heritage and traditions
- Live Entertainment: Features both local and international musicians and dancers
- Community Engagement: Encourages participation in Irish dance workshops and activities
7. Omaha's Annual Jazz on the Green
A free, family-friendly outdoor jazz festival featuring local and national acts. Held annually in August.
- Music Appreciation: Offers a variety of jazz styles from traditional to contemporary
- Community Engagement: Includes food vendors, artisans, and kids' activities
- Accessibility: Provides a free event for all to enjoy
8. Omaha's Annual German-Texan Fest
Celebrates the blend of German and Texan cultures through food, music, and dance. Held annually in October.
- Cultural Exchange: Brings together two unique cultural traditions
- Food Tasting: Features traditional German and Texan cuisine
- Entertainment: Includes live music, dance performances, and family-friendly activities
9. Omaha's Annual LatinX Fest
Celebrates the richness of Latin American culture through music, food, and dance. Held annually in August.
- Cultural Immersion: Provides a deep dive into various Latin American cultures
- Food Tasting: Features traditional Latin American dishes
- Entertainment: Includes live music, dance performances, and family-friendly activities
10. Omaha's Annual Asian Fest
A celebration of Asian culture with food, dance performances, and traditional arts. Held annually in May.
- Cultural Immersion: Provides a deep dive into various Asian cultures
- Food Tasting: Features traditional Asian dishes
- Entertainment: Includes live music, dance performances, and family-friendly activities
11. Omaha's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kicks off the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony, carol singing, and Santa visits. Held annually in early December.
- Holiday Spirit: Celebrates the beginning of the festive season
- Community Engagement: Includes carol singing, children's activities, and local food vendors
- Photography Opportunities: Offers beautiful backdrops for holiday photos
12. Omaha's Annual Juneteenth Celebration
Celebrates the end of slavery in the United States with music, food, and educational activities. Held annually on June 19th.
- Historical Education: Provides insights into African American history and culture
- Community Engagement: Includes live music, dance performances, and family-friendly activities
- Food Tasting: Features traditional African American cuisine
13. Omaha's Annual OLE! Latin Food Festival
A celebration of Latin American food with cooking demonstrations, tastings, and live music. Held annually in May.
- Culinary Experience: Offers a variety of Latin American dishes
- Entertainment: Includes live music and dance performances
- Cultural Education: Provides insights into various Latin American cultures
14. Omaha's Annual PrideFest
Celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with live music, food, and educational activities. Held annually in June.
- Community Support: Promotes acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community
- Cultural Education: Provides insights into LGBTQ+ history, rights, and issues
- Entertainment: Includes live music, dance performances, and family-friendly activities
15. Omaha's Annual NE Brass Arts Festival
A celebration of brass music with performances by local and international artists. Held annually in July.
- Music Appreciation: Offers a variety of brass music genres
- Community Engagement: Includes workshops, demonstrations, and family-friendly activities
- Accessibility: Provides a free event for all to enjoy