Omaha Events This Summer

Jenna Janssen NEWS EDITOR

The spring semester is almost over and here comes summer! If you’re not really sure what you want to do yet and you’ve been wanting to plan a time to hang out with your friends, here’s a couple events to start your summer off right!

Junkstock (April 28-May 7)

Junkstock is a repurposed festival featuring live music, food trucks, a kids zone, and dozens of “junk” vendors from around the U.S. If you love vintage clothing and antique items this is the perfect spot for you, with over 20 vendors its guaranteed you’ll find a spot perfect for you.

Hot Shops Spring Open House - Preview Night (April 28)

Go and admire three floors of art at Omaha’s largest artist collective! Meet Hot Shops current resident artists from their processes, demonstrations and the opportunity to purchase their work. The artwork represented ranges from drawings, paintings, photography, sculptures, pottery, glass art, weaving, quilts, jewelry, architectural pieces and more. It is a free event with a recommended $5 donation at the door.

Jitterbugs’ Night Out (Fridays)

Interested in learning how to jitterbug? The Omaha Jitterbugs are calling all aspiring dancers with no partner required! Have some fun and enjoy a weekly dance lesson filled with swinging tunes. There are hands-on dance instructions and live music to get you in the mood!

Sip Nebraska (May 6)

Always wanted to try wineries, breweries and distilleries from across the state? Sip Nebraska offers event goers the opportunity to try unlimited tastings of wine, craft beer, hard cider and spirits. Enjoy live music, shop curated artisan vendors, take a tasty tour through food truck alley, play lawn games, and enjoy the atmosphere at Mahoney State Park. Prices range from $75 Early Access Tasting, $65 Tasting, $15 Designated Driver.

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Midtown Crossing (May 6)

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Midtown Crossing and enjoy Mexican-inspired cocktails, beverages and food at Stories Coffee Company; Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza + Taproom; Sofra Kitchen; Ray’s Wings, PIzza and Drinks; Proof Whiskey Bar & Craft Cocktails; Pa Mas Taqueria & Grill. Try to visit as many of these places as you can and cast your vote for the best in midtown!

The 2023 Renaissance Festival of Nebraska (May

Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch

6-7) & (May 13-14)

Try something new this summer and travel back in time to when royalty ruled and knights wore shining armor! There will be equestrian jousting, unique performance stages, over 100 costumed characters and many one-of-a-kind artisans at this majestic festival. Plus two different themed weekends -- first Viking Magic, next Celtic Romance. Prices are $14 adults and $8 children

Cinco de Mayo Omaha Festival (May 12-May 14)

One of my favorite events growing up is Omaha’s largest and most diverse festival, featuring live music and entertainment, carnival rides, games, a parade, food, shopping, a pageant and Qué Chulo (How Cute) Dog Contest. This is the perfect place to grab a group of friends and create memories.

Well here’s some of the events happening in the beginning of summer! Hopefully you’ll go to some of them and experience what Nebraska has to offer this summer!