Issuu

Family Fun Guide OMAHA AREA

FALL 2026

E VENT SPOTLIGHT:

MCC Intertribal Powwow

FE ATURED ARTICLE:

Fall Tree Planting

IN THIS ISSUE

Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard Guides Kid Classes/Programs & Birthday Guide Recipe Ideas Printables for Kids: Crossword Word Search

Photo by FFIO: Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard Gretna, NE

K E E P U PD AT E D O N FA MI LY F U N! Visit us at : family funinomaha .com

Diana Haney R E A LTO R

Phone: (402) 681-9952 Email: diana.haney@betteromaha.com

Y N T O S I E S S ON A H P E M V CO UST ITY SITI TREGR PO INT ed cus o f nt s Clie O ther dustr y et d ark n an ving I M d e e e at Ser ic at f th ce Est D e d ion for Re a l ce lle n ding o x s in an Pas ears to E der st k ills t Y n n S 10 + m i t m e s i v e U i a t i o n t n m Co prehe N ego l Com ptiona e E xc

Photo by FFIO: Martin’s Hillside Orchard Ceresco, NE

IN THIS ISSUE

4 WELCOME E V E N T S P O T L I G H T: 6 F E AT U R E D A RT I C L E: 8 11 A P P L E O R C H A R D G U I D E 13 P U M P K I N P A T C H G U I D E RECIPE IDE AS: 17 CL ASSES/PROGRAMS 20 & BIRTHD AY G UIDE PRINTAB LES FOR KID S: 24

(PGS. 6-7)

MCC INTERTRIB A L POW WOW (PGS. 8-10)

FALL TREE PLANTING

(PGS. 13-14)

PUMPKIN PATCH SCAVENGER HUNT (PG. 16) (PGS. 17-19)

6 SIMPLE YET FUN SCHOOL-DAY MEALS

CROSSWORD WORD SE ARCH

(PGS. 20-23) (PGS. 24-25)

Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com 3

WELCOME Photo by FFIO

Fall is one of our favorite times of year to get outside and enjoy time together as a family. Crisp, cool days, colorful leaves, and a calendar full of seasonal activities make autumn the perfect season for family adventures. There are so many ways to enjoy the beauty of fall around Omaha. Head to a pumpkin patch or apple orchard, pick out pumpkins to decorate at home, wander through a corn maze, take a hayride, or simply enjoy a walk surrounded by brilliant fall colors. And don’t forget the delicious flavors of the season! Treat yourself to apple cider donuts, fresh apple pie, pumpkin treats, or a warm cup of apple cider.

you’re exploring the outdoors, attending a fall festival, trying something new, or relaxing at home, these little moments can become some of your favorite family memories. From connecting with nature and challenging your brain to discovering new activities and local traditions, we’re here to help you find plenty of ways to make the most of fall!

– Family Fun In Omaha Team familyfuninomaha.com

Most importantly, fall gives families a chance to slow down and enjoy the simple moments together. Whether DISCLOSURE:

Family Fun In Omaha is part of an affiliate network and commission may be earned based on clicks or purchases when you use our links. Affiliate links help us continue to bring you the free content you love.

DISCLAIMER:

©2026 Family Fun in Omaha. All rights reserved. We are not responsible for errors and omissions or changes since publication. Reproduction in whole or in part granted only by written permission of the publisher.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: 4 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com

Dance with us at Nebraska Dance!

Providing a quality dance education in a positive and encouraging atmosphere Dance classes for ages 18 months - 12th grade

nebraskadance.com Central Location 11426 Davenport Street

Lighthouse 11212 Chicago Circle

West Location 18039 R Plaza

EVENT SPOTLIGHT 35th annual fort omaha

INTERTRIBAL POWWOW Building Bridges

SATURDAY, SEPT. 12 1-7:30 p.m.

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE Fort Omaha Campus | 5300 N. 30th St. Omaha, NE 68111 mccneb.edu/Powwow 531-MCC-2662

Reigning Princess Teyanna Runnels Santee Sioux

Free and open to the public.

6 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

35TH ANNIVERSARY FORT OMAHA

INTERTRIBAL POWWOW

DATE: Saturday, September 12th, 2026 FREE to the public! Join in the 35th Annual Fort Omaha Intertribal Powwow. The powwow will be held at Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha Campus, 5300 N. 30th St. Celebrating Native American cultures, the powwow honors the traditional dance, music, artistry, oral history and foods of various tribes across Nebraska and the surrounding region that include Omaha, Ponca, Santee, Sioux, and Winnebago. The Agenda Includes: A Grand Entry Opening Prayer Flag Song Intertribal Dancing Land Acknowledgement Fontenelle Forest Raptor Recovery Program Tiny Tots Special FlintNapping Basics Porcupine Quilling Workshop Princess Contest Star Quilt Giveaway Closing Prayer Retreat of Colors

Visit mccneb.edu/powwow for more information.

Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com 7

F E AT U R E D A RT I C L E Page 1 of 3

Fall Tree Planting

Expert Guidance for Optimal Growth By: Feature Impact

Fall is the perfect season to celebrate trees as they transform the world into vibrant shades of red, orange, green and gold. You can do more than just admire existing trees – because in many areas, fall is also an ideal time to plant new ones. While spring is often seen as peak planting season, experts say cooler weather and autumn rains provide ideal conditions for seedlings to retain moisture and establish their root systems gradually before winter dormancy, improving their future ability to adjust to summer heat and drier conditions. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, planting trees offers many benefits for the planet, wildlife and humans alike. From an environmental perspective, they help filter air and water, remove pollutants from the soil, slow storm surge and nurture biodiversity. 8 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com

Plus, access to nature can reduce stress and increase opportunities for outdoor recreation, improving overall health and well-being in your community. This autumn, use these expert tips from Eric North, program manager of urban forestry and ISA-certified arborist at the Arbor Day Foundation, to plan your fall tree planting and add a few new hues to your local landscapes. Choose the Right Tree Setting your trees up for success starts with choosing the right species. Before ordering seedlings, take time to identify species that are well-suited to your local climate, soil conditions and planting site. Also consider the tree’s mature height and how far the canopy will spread – it won’t stay small forever, so make sure you can give it space to grow.

F E AT U R E D A RT I C L E Page 2 of 3

Think About Timing Although you can technically plant trees until the soil is too frozen to dig a hole, it’s best to schedule your fall tree planting at least six weeks before the ground freezes so the seedlings have time to adapt before winter. If you’re unable to plant your trees immediately after getting them, you can store them in a cool, dry place, making sure the roots stay damp, for up to five days before putting them in the ground. Don’t Dig Too Deep A tree planted too deep may develop root and trunk problems that can affect its long-term health. Instead of digging deep, go wide to encourage roots to spread outward. Dig a hole roughly 3-4 times wider than the root system but no deeper than the root itself. When you put the tree in the hole, the root flare (where the trunk meets the roots) should sit level with the soil or slightly above it.

Water Frequently Cozy autumn rainstorms might share some of the workload here, but when the forecast looks clear, it’s up to you to water your newly planted seedlings. Keeping the soil consistently moist allows a young tree’s roots to stay hydrated and continue growing. Precise care instructions will depend on the type of tree and your location but expect to thoroughly water your trees about once a week until the ground freezes. Protect Against Wildlife Small trees are vulnerable to damage from local wildlife like deer and rabbits, who may chew on bark or snap fragile branches. Installing a protective fence or breathable tree guard can help safeguard trees until they’re older and more capable of withstanding scavenging from hungry critters.

Mulch with Care Adding 2-3 inches of mulch in a layer around the base of the tree can help insulate the soil and roots, retain moisture and suppress weeds. However, be careful to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk itself so you don’t create a “mulch volcano” that traps moisture against the bark.

Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com 9

F E AT U R E D A RT I C L E Page 3 of 3

Join the Cause with Trees Research from the Arbor Day Foundation’s Canopy Report shows most Americans want to live in neighborhoods with more trees, but only a minority report having planted a tree in the past year. However, if you’re feeling inspired to plant trees in your yard this fall, the organization is ready to help. New members who join during the nonprofit organization’s fall membership drive will receive 10 free trees suitable for their region, along with clear instructions on how to plant and care for them. Whether you’re a first-time planter or a seasoned friend of the forest, you’ll receive ongoing support to ensure success in your efforts to grow a greener world. “People understand how important trees are for their communities,

10 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com

their health and the environment,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Many just need a simple way to get started. Our fall membership drive puts trees directly into people’s hands and gives them the confidence to plant trees successfully.” The foundation has engaged tree planters in more than 90% of all American neighborhoods, thanks in large part to the organization’s membership drives each planting season. This fall, more than 2 million new trees are expected to be distributed. To sign up and choose your 10 free trees, visit Arborday.org/ GetTrees, where you can also find additional advice on tree planting, care and more.

APPLE ORCHARD GUIDE Photo by FFIO: Martin’s Hillside Orchard Ceresco, NE

All apple picking is subject to availability. Check websites or their social media for updates.

Arbor Day Farm’s, 260 acres is a

top spot for fun. Experience the oneof-a-kind Treetop Village, pick apples and pumpkins, explore the farm, and enjoy fall treats including caramel apples, fresh-pressed cider, apple pie & more. 2611 Arbor Ave Nebraska City, NE 68410

Martin’s is the place to pick your

own apples each fall, including everyone’s favorite - Honeycrisp. Lots of fun kid’s activities with wagon rides on the weekends. Also, caramel apples, cider slush u-pick flowers, and a pumpkin patch! 2024 Ashland Rd, Ceresco, Nebraska 68017

3 Bee Farms

Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard

14922 535th St Griswold, IA 51535

19475 225th St Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Super Bee Orchard

Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard

4571 US-75 Fort Calhoun, NE 68023

5995 G Rd Nebraska City, NE 68410

Picnic Hill Orchard

Vala’s

10500 Yankee Hill Rd Lincoln, NE 68526

12102 S 180th St Gretna, NE 68028 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com 11

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P U M PK IN PAT C H G U ID E Photo by FFIO: Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch Washington County, NE

All pumpkin picking is subject to availability. Check websites or their social media for updates.

Nelson Produce Farm is the

place to be for fall fun! 20+farmtastic activities! Come enjoy this fall paradise, complete with a corn maze with 9+ miles of thrilling trails, a hayrack ride, fire pits and pumpkins galore! Enjoy their Coffee & Donut Barn, Cafe, Indoor Market, and a 2-acre U-Pick Garden bursting with veggies & strawberries. 10505 N 234th St Valley, Nebraska 68064

Arbor Day Farms

Vala’s Pumpkin Patch

2611 Arbor Ave Nebraska City, NE 68410

12102 S 180th St Gretna, NE 68028

3 Bee Farms

Roca Berry Farm

14922 535th St Griswold, IA 51535

16531 S 38th St Roca, NE 68430

Martin’s is the place to pick your

P U M PK IN PAT C H G U ID E Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch

Grandpa’s Pumpkin Farm

3935 NE-133 Blair, NE 68008

116 Street F32 Panama, Iowa

Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch

*as of publication FFIO could not verify that Grandpa’s Pumpkin Farm would be in operation for 2026. Please visit their website for more details

11001 S 48th Street Papillion, NE 68133

Camp Fontanelle’s Split Oak Hollow Go out in the pumpkin patch and find that perfect pumpkin or choose one that has been picked for you! Pumpkins and gourds in all sizes and shapes. Find your way through our corn maze, pick a pumpkin, ride the Barrel Train & jump on our Jumping Pillow. Grab a homemade treat to eat. There is plenty of fun for all. 9677 County Road 3 Fontanelle, Nebraska 68008

SEE MORE EVENTS

Visit our website and Event Calendar to explore even more fun events and activities around the Omaha area

familyfuninomaha.com/events

14 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com

26 FamilyFuninOmaha.com | Fall 2023

P U M PK IN PAT C H G U ID E PRINTABLE

Pumpkin Patch Scavenger Hunt ACORN

PIE

APPLE

PITCHFORK

BARN

WHITE PUMPKIN

CIDER

RAKE

CORN

SCARECROW

OLD TRUCK

SUNFLOWER

HAY BALE

TRACTOR

JACK-O’-LANTERN

TALL PUMPKIN

FALL LEAVES

WHEEL BARROW

16 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com

RECIPE IDEAS Page 1 of 3 Source: Healthy Family Project

6 Simple Yet Fun School-Day Meals to Feed Your Kids with Minimal Chaos (Feature Impact) When it comes to planning lunches and dinners on busy school days, simplicity is the name of the game. Parents who are already juggling carpools, practices, errands and homework don’t need anything extra added to their plates while they’re trying to get food onto everyone else’s. Choosing uncomplicated meal ideas like these back-to-school recipes lets you reclaim some precious time from the morning and evening chaos. Designed to fit seamlessly into your existing routines, the recipes are familiar, flexible and filling - and, perhaps most importantly, won’t keep you standing at the stove for hours. Make it easy for your loved ones with Healthy Family Project’s registered dietitian-approved meal ideas packed with the nutrition to keep your family fueled all day.

Source: Healthy Family Project

Mandarin Chicken Rice Bowls This fresh, fun dinner starts with a base of rice topped with juicy mandarin slices, savory chicken, fresh vegetables and a bright citrus dressing. Plus, it’s easily customizable to each family member’s tastes and preferences. Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com 17

RECIPE IDEAS Page 2 of 3 Source: Healthy Family Project

prefer their burgers as sandwiches instead of bowls, provide buns on the side so they can build their own. Source: Healthy Family Project

Lemon Blueberry Pancake Lunchbox Bites To make your kids’ eyes light up when they open their lunchboxes, opt for recipes that feel a little playful. These mini pancakes paired with colorful fruits definitely fit the bill, and they’re a great way to disguise nutritious ingredients like oats, eggs and bananas. Include a cup of yogurt on the side to make lunch dippable and interactive.

One-Pot Cheeseburger Mac If just imagining a sink full of dishes makes you tired, that means it’s the kind of night for a one-pot dinner. Pasta, cheese, tomatoes and onions combine with your choice of protein for a hearty and satisfying comfort meal that might remind you of your own childhood.

Source: Healthy Family Project Source: Healthy Family Project

Tomato Turkey Burger Bowls Burger night gets a healthy twist in this creative recipe, which swaps a beef patty for lean ground turkey and oily French fries for roasted potato wedges while leaning into classic toppings like lettuce, tomatoes and pickles. If the kids still 18 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com

Greek Salad with Cucumbers, Tomatoes and Watermelon Whether you pack them as a healthy school lunchbox side or serve as a refreshing after-school snack, these salad cups keep weekday flavors fresh and inter-

RECIPE IDEAS Page 3 of 3

esting. The combination of cucumbers, watermelon, tomatoes, feta and mint means your loved ones are getting fruits, veggies, protein and herbs all in one. For on-the-go enjoyment, remember to pack the dressing on the side. Source: Healthy Family Project

Easy Quesadilla Dippers Cookie cutters aren’t just for cookies anymore. Eating is generally less of a battle for kids when their food is in fun shapes, so let them choose their star, heart, gingerbread man or dinosaur to make these quesadillas more craveable. Fillings are flexible, too: layer cheese with chicken, beans or cooked veggies of your choice then serve with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Visit HealthyFamilyProject.com to find more easy, family-friendly recipes for back-to-school season.

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CL ASSES /PRO GR AMS & BIRTHD AY G UIDE Page 1 of 4

Kids Classes Programs

Find a variety of options for Kids Classes and Programs in the Area. We have included Art, Dance, Music, Sports, Science, Specialty Classes, Swimming Lessons, and more! Remember to check their websites and social media for updates or changes.

Are you looking for an activity for your child that is positive, safe, and encourages development? Join us for dance at Bloom! • For Ages 2–Adults • Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Acro, Contemporary + more! • Four Locations: Oakview, Blondo, Elkhorn and Valley Programs Offered: Dance Age Range: Ages 2+, Ages 3+, Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, High School Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Join us at Bloom where we help create Creative, Confident and Courageous children as they grow in their passion for dance!

Dance classes for children ages 18 months and up. There are three locations.

Programs Offered: Dance Age Range: Ages 2+, Ages 3+, Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, High School Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

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Nebraska Dance has recreational to competitive level. We believe that each child is created uniquely—with God-given temperaments, strengths and attributes. It is our honor to invest in your child’s dance education and see them develop into amazing, confident individuals with love and passion for all that they do!

CL ASSES /PRO GR AMS & BIRTHD AY G UIDE Page 2 of 4

Discover a world of possibilities at Do Space with our diverse youth programs! For ages 2–5, join Littles Lab weekly for fun and learning. Ages 6+ can explore Make It, Design It, and Kid Coders every week. Programs Offered: Coding, STEM/STEAM Age Range: Ages 2+, Ages 3+, Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, High School Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Sing Omaha Studios offers private voice, piano, guitar, bass, and drum lessons. We will soon be offering students the opportunity to join forces with other players to form bands via Sing Omaha Rocks. Programs Offered: Music, Performing Arts, Specialty Age Range: Ages 3+, Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, High School Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Sing Omaha Choirs provides premiere choral instruction for singers of all ages at affordable prices and convenient locations, we also offer infant and preschool music classes

Our collaborative approach to theatre, art and music education creates an extraordinary space to explore creativity in bold, new ways!

Programs Offered: Music, Performing Arts, Specialty Age Range: Preschool, Elementary, Middle School Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

We offer a range of programs from private music, acting and art lessons to group classes, spring break camps and our signature summer camps. Located in Countryside Village at 87th and Pacific in Omaha, NE. Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com 21

CL ASSES /PRO GR AMS & BIRTHD AY G UIDE

Page 3 of 4

Birthday Party Places

Programs Offered: Indoor, Gaming, Specialty Age Range: Elementary, Middle School, High School

Do you have a birthday coming up in your family? Find a variety of options for FUN birthday party places in Omaha! Remember to check their websites and social media for updates or changes.

Elkhorn Esports Academy is the place to Level Up your birthday party experience! Our unique gaming facility is equipped with 30 state of the art PCs and 8 Xbox Series X consoles. We can host parties for as few as 6 and up to 50. Choose your favorite gaming title and invite your friends. Bring your own treats or let us take care of it all for you. Custom packages available.

Wildlife Encounters offers a one-ofa-kind entertaining and educational birthday party for your child.

Programs Offered: Kids Entertainers, Indoor, Specialty Age Range: Ages 0-3, Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, High School

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Animal ambassadors will visit your location for a wonderfully exciting and educational show. Meet a kangaroo, alligator, snake, armadillo, parrot, hedgehog and many more animals! Featured on Animal Planet, YouTube & More. *Please see updated animal list on website.

CL ASSES /PRO GR AMS & BIRTHD AY G UIDE

Page 4 of 4

Celebrate your child’s birthday with a nature-themed party at Lauritzen Gardens! A party at the garden is a unique and fun environment to have a party for children ages five to 12. Choose from various garden themes: Garden, Flowers, Bugs, Trains, Butterflies. Programs Offered: Indoor, Outdoor, Specialty Age Range: Elementary, Middle School

Cheer Athletics Omaha offers a one of a kind birthday celebration! With birthday parties available for all ages, this state of the art facility is a must for birthday parties!

Programs Offered: Kids Entertainers, Indoor, Specialty Age Range: Ages 0-3, Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, High School

Celebrate your birthday with The Best of the Best’s staff while using trampolines, spring floors, the beautiful lobby and so much more. Have a custom request? Just ask! Let’s Celebrate!

Please also visit our website at FamilyFunInOmaha.com to browse through a variety of Birthday Parties and other Kids Classes and Programs. There you can search by Type, Ages, Seasons! Special thanks to our sponsors who partnered with us to bring you this guide. If you would like to partner with us to be included in the magazine and on our website please contact us. Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com 23

PRINTAB LES FOR KID S PRINTAB LE

FALL Season

Read the clues below and fill in the grid with the correct words. 1

ACROSS 5. A red or green fruit that grows on trees.

DOWN 1. Parts of a tree that turn colors in fall.

7. The nut of an oak tree.

2. Warm clothing you wear in fall.

8. Hot food made in water.

3. Water that falls from the sky.

9. Cloth you wear around your neck to stay warm.

4. Shoes you wear in cold or rainy weather.

11. A dessert often made with apples or pumpkins.

6. A big, round, orange vegetable.

12. The time when farmers pick their crops.

10. A yellow vegetable that grows on tall plants.

ANSWER KEY ON PAGE 27 24 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com

PRINTAB LES FOR KID S PRINTAB LE

FALL Season

Find the words below in the grid. A

pie fall apple leaves autumn

tree acorn jacket pumpkin chestnut

coat windy harvest sweater pinecone

ANSWER KEY ON PAGE 27 Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com 25

ADVERTISE WITH US Contact us for our Media Kit! info@familyfuninomaha.com

HAS A NEWSLETTER KEEP UPDATED ON FAMILY FUN! Sign up for our FREE Email Newsletter to receive our regular updates about all the fun and family-friendly events and activities around the Omaha area!

PRINTAB LES FOR KID S ANSWER KE Y

FALL Season

Read the clues below and fill in the grid with the correct words. 1

R L S A E W B I A P P L E A O V U A C O R N E M T T S O U P E S C A R F K R O P I E H A R V E S T N N 2

ACROSS 5. A red or green fruit that grows on trees.

DOWN 1. Parts of a tree that turn colors in fall.

7. The nut of an oak tree.

2. Warm clothing you wear in fall.

8. Hot food made in water.

3. Water that falls from the sky.

9. Cloth you wear around your neck to stay warm.

4. Shoes you wear in cold or rainy weather.

11. A dessert often made with apples or pumpkins.

6. A big, round, orange vegetable.

12. The time when farmers pick their crops.

10. A yellow vegetable that grows on tall plants.

FALL Season

Find the words below in the grid. A

pie fall apple leaves autumn

tree acorn jacket pumpkin chestnut

coat windy harvest sweater pinecone

Fall 2026 I FamilyFuninOmaha.com 27

Photo by FFIO:

FIND MANY MORE THINGS TO DO THIS SPRING AND THROUGH THE COURSE OF THE YEAR AT:

FAMILYFUNINOMAHA.COM