What to do this weekend - April 16, 2026
Look at all this stuff you could be doing.
Hi,
Welcome back to This Week In Lincoln. Is this the largest ever issue of the newsletter? I didn't actually go back and check, but there's a ton of stuff happening this weekend (and next week). Go find something that looks fun.
On Saturday I went to see the theatrical adaptation of Capital City that I plugged in last week's newsletter. It was good and frankly I liked it more than I expected. (To be clear I didn't expect it to be bad. But I did have a moment where I was like "I wrote a whole feature about this and implicitly suggested people go see it, what if it sucks?")
One thing I find fascinating about Capital City, the novel, is the lore that surrounds it: More specifically, the fact that author Mari Sandoz was hounded into exile by Lincolnites who didn't like her portrayal of the city. So it was funny to walk up to the Lied Center and realize, belatedly, that the theatrical version was playing in the smaller theater, which you can only enter by walking around the entire place and traversing a rickety looking ramp (seemingly an artifact of the building's ongoing renovation) to reach the building's back entrance. It felt very fitting. Sandoz's controversial novel that angered the town finally gets some recognition — only to be upstaged by whatever bigger act was occupying the Lied's main stage on Saturday night.
Here's a few other things you should know:
- I wanted to highlight this essay/open letter published by local high school band alls, which highlights the need for more all ages shows in Lincoln. It seems like there's a real lack of venues that are willing (or able?) to host gigs where teenagers are welcome. I'll admit that this isn't something that I've really been paying attention to (mostly because, well, it's been a while since I graduated high school). Many of the best music venues in Lincoln (and especially in downtown Lincoln) are bars, so they obviously have some good reasons for not letting kids in. But I do think it's an issue worth talking about! We should take every opportunity to encourage young people to make music and create things, and not having spaces where they can attend shows does the opposite.
- There's a cool, practical build your own rain garden class provided by the SCC Continuing Education Center happening on Tuesday, April 28. It's a bit more expensive than most things I usually include in the newsletter ($45), but the prices include the cost of the stuff you get to take home! (There's also a build your own rain barrel class coming up soon and I wanted to include that in the newsletter, but all three sessions seem to be full already. Alas!)
Send me stuff I should know about! I will (probably) include it in next week's newsletter. You can submit events here. Or you can just reach out and say hi. My email is tynanstewart@proton.me
I'm also on Letterboxd, Instagram and Bluesky so follow me there or whatever.
~ Ty
Thanks to everyone who supports this newsletter financially! If you have the means, please consider joining them and purchasing a paid subscription. While it won't get you access to any extra posts (yet), it WILL give you the ability to comment. So if you want to — for example — publicly flame me for my opinions about films, by all means, sign up.
Thursday, April 16
Thursday, April 16
Music: The Hooten Hallers Album Release at The Zoo Bar!
+ When: 6 to 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $15 day of show | 21+
More details: This Missouri-based band describes their music as a blend of blues, garage rock, country, punk, and jazz. Sounds cool! Here's links to their spotify / insta
Thursday, April 16
Gardening: Spring Planting Lab: Family Workshop
+ When: 5:30 to 7 pm
+ Where: Bennett Martin Public Library, 136 S 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Welcome spring by growing something together! Families will hear a story about seeds and gardens, enjoy planting their own seeds, explore seed activities, and make garden art. Have extra seeds at home? Bring them along to share with other families!"
Thursday, April 16
Film: Billy Preston: That's The Way God Planned It
+ When: 5 pm | 7:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | $12 evening show
More details about the film: "An exhilarating documentary about the legendary GRAMMY-winning musician whose signature sound shaped the work of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Ray Charles, Sly Stone, Aretha Franklin, and countless others."
Last chance to see this at the Ross!
Thursday, April 16
Film: Fantasy Life
+ When: 5:10 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee
More details about the film: "An actress (Amanda Peet) falls for the anxious law school dropout (Matthew Shear) babysitting her kids in this smart, New York-set romantic comedy."
Last chance to see this at the Ross! I didn't like it much but maybe you will.
Thursday, April 16
Music: High Street Irish at Meadowlark
+ When: 5:30 to 6:30 pm
+ Where: Meadowlark Coffee, 1624 South St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be food and drinks available to purchase.
More details: Come out and listen top jigs, reels, polkas, airs, and more Irish music. The band plays Meadowlark the third Thursday of every month.
Thursday, April 16
Music: Open Mic at the Hub Cafe
+ When: 5 to 8 pm
+ Where: The Hub Cafe, 250 N 21st St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be food and drinks available to purchase.
More details: Open to local musicians, singers, comedians, and poets! There will be 20-minute slots available; sign-up on a first come first serve basis
Thursday, April 16
Social: Nerd Nite
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Saro Cider, 1746 N St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover!
More details: I saw this described as a mix of TEDx Talk and powerpoint party. This month's topics are:
+ That Storm Chasing Life - Combining art, science, and thrill, we’ll learn about the life of a storm chaser and photographer.
+ Do You Have To? - Setting boundaries isn’t about putting up walls but instead is a sorting system. We’ll learn about how to set boundaries to give energy to the areas we want to and not what we "have to.”
+ Only You Can Stop Communism: The Ad Council, Smokey the Bear, and American Propaganda in the Cold War - The US Ad Council harnessed imagery to promote civic duty, national security, and American capitalism. Learn about Smokey the Bear’s role in national propaganda.
Thursday, April 16
Social: Weekly Leftist Meetup
+ When: 5 to 7 pm
+ Where: Jake's Beercade Jr., 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Organized by Lincoln DSA. More from their Instagram post: "Looking to find other left leaning people? Want to get more involved in local Sstate and/or national politics? Needing something more to do to make a difference? Join us at Beercade Jr. these Thursdays! Drop in and out at your leisure."
More meetups are scheduled for every Thursday in April.
Friday, April 17
Friday, April 17
Music: Voices of Pride: Songs of Justice
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Saint Paul United Methodist Church, 1144 M St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 donation
More details: "In a time political turmoil it is important to still find joy. Join Star City Chorus along with Star City Strings for a night of music and comradery.
"We will also be collecting hygiene products for CEDARS Foster Care Closet. Please make sure all donations are appropriately packaged when brought to the concert."
Friday, April 17
Art: Third Friday Art Show
+ When: 5 to 8:30 pm
+ Where: Clements Noyes Art Gallery, 119 S 9th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Join eight Clements Noyes Art Gallery artists as they share their latest work. Live music by Jack Zeleny and snacks by The Rabbit Hole Bakery. Includes work from student artists at Union Adventist University!
Friday, April 17
Crafting: Community Carving Night with Lindsey Weber
+ When: 6 to 9 pm
+ Where: Constellation Studios, 2055 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join us for a hands-on Community Carving Night with Lindsey Weber, one of the artists behind the MBX Community Mural! Come carve, collaborate, and create as we bring a life-size crane to life. Together, we’ll embellish and carve the design, then print it at Constellation Studios on the big press. The finished paste-up will be wheat-pasted onto the MBX mural later this year during the MBX Grand Opening."
Friday, April 17
Film: Defending the Dark – A Special Film Event at Branched Oak Observatory
+ When: 7 to 11 pm
+ Where: Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th St. Raymond, NE 68428 (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! | Reserve your tickets here
More details: "The night sky is one of humanity’s oldest shared treasures, yet for many people today the stars are slowly disappearing behind the glow of artificial light. In recognition of International Dark Sky Week, Branched Oak Observatory invites you to a special community screening of the powerful documentary Defending the Dark"
Friday, April 17
Film: Immediate Family
+ When: 5 pm | 7:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | $12 evening show
More details about the film: "IMMEDIATE FAMILY tracks the rise and collaborations of a group of legendary session musicians Danny Kortchmar, Leland Sklar, Russ Kunkel, and Waddy Wachtel through the 1970s and onward, chronicling their illustrious partnerships and their formidable record of hit-making."
More showings scheduled through April 23!
Friday, April 17
Film: Mr Nobody Against Putin
+ When: 5:10 pm | 7:10 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | $12 evening show
More details about the film: "As Russia launches its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, primary schools across Russia are transformed into recruitment stages for the war. Facing the ethical dilemma of working in a system defined by propaganda and violence, a brave teacher films what’s really happening in his own school."
More showings scheduled through April 23!
Friday, April 17
Music: Church of Blues
+ When: 5 to 8 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: Church of Blues is a supergroup of Lincoln, Nebraska-based musicians, featuring Josh Hoyer, Levi William, Joe Gourlay, and Dave Boye, who perform classic and traditional blues music.
Friday, April 17
Music: The Glass Hours + Wendy Jane
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: The Glass Hours is a country/folk duo that combines Colorado mountain and Alabama southern roots. They'll play with support from local songwriter Wendy Jane!
Friday, April 17
Music: It’s Darn Good Music
+ When: 7 pm (doors) | 7:30 pm
+ Where: Unitarian Church, 6300 A St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $20 | $5 for students | Buy tickets here (or at the door)
More details: Some cool looking music lined up. Refreshments served in the lobby!
+ Paul Taffanel - Wind Quintet in G minor
+ Astor Piazzolla - Contrabajissimo
+ Gioachino Rossini - String Sonata No 1 in G major
+ Jean Françaix - Octet
Friday, April 17
Music: Muscle + FACE + Cold Glock + Ratstallion
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 8:30 (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: A hardcore show with some local supporting bands!
Friday, April 17
Music: UK Garage Night
+ When: 9:30 pm to 2 am
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover!
More details: A night of UK Garage, Jungle, Bassline, Drum n Bass & more, with sounds and performances from Jelani the Human, Cash Too, and ZMB.
Friday, April 17
Storytelling: The Moth
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Lied Center Main Stage, 301 N 12th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Tickets start at $37 for adults | $22 UNL students and people 18 & under | Buy tickets here
More details: "The Mainstage is the quintessential Moth experience, a two-act show where the storytellers and a notable host share true personal stories, without notes. Experience true stories live as they’re recorded for future episodes of The Moth Podcast and Moth Radio Hour."
One night only! There are still some tickets left, though the best seats are already filled.
Saturday, April 18
Saturday, April 18
Community: Ready, Set, Vote!
+ When: 1 to 3 pm
+ Where: Eiseley Branch Library, 1530 Superior St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Your vote is your voice in our community. But voting can be complex and frustrating for naturalized citizens - determining how to register, where to vote, or choosing candidates and issues to support.
Come learn about how, where, and why so that you can vote with confidence! Bring your kids and your friends. Enter a drawing for a $50 gift card.
Presented by the Asian Community & Cultural Center in partnership with Center for Legal Immigration Assistance, Civic Nebraska, Common Cause, Heartland Workers Center, League of Women Voters, Lincoln City Libraries, Nebraska Civic Engagement Table, and Out Nebraska."
Saturday, April 18
Art: Teach–In: Writing in Response to Art
+ When: 2 pm
+ Where: Sheldon Museum of Art, 12th and R St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free, but registration is encouraged.
More details: "Explore the themes of "Hyphen American: Intersections of Identity" through an ekphrastic writing exercise led by Karen Shoemaker, director of Larksong Writers Place. Participants will spend time looking closely at selected artworks, reflecting on what they see, what it means to them, and how those impressions can spark a poem, story, or brief memoir. Guided exercises will introduce the practice of writing in response to visual art, helping attendees move from careful observation to expressive language."
Saturday, April 18
Community: Winslow's Wardrobe Spring Pop-Up
+ When: 1 to 3 pm
+ Where: Black Cat House, 1601 B St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join us for our next pop-up at The Black Cat House! Winslow's Wardrobe are a non-profit organization providing identity-affirming clothing/accessories to our community. With warmer weather on the way, our trans and queer friends may be in need of some lighter new threads, and we are here to help!"
Saturday, April 18
Crafting: Sewing Saturdays: April
+ When: 10 am to 2 pm
+ Where: International Quilt Museum, 1523 N. 33rd St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Materials are included with the cost of museum admission!
More details: "Sewing Saturdays are a chance for guests of any age to learn sewing skills and create a small, take-home project! Don’t worry if this is your first sewing experience — help will be nearby if you need it."
Saturday, April 18
Educational: I Got the Blues and I Can't Be Satisfied
+ When: 11 am to noon
+ Where: Bennett Martin Public Library, 136 S 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "What is the blues? The blues is what a blues singer sings. The blues, the first truly American art form, is not monolithic, but instead is a widely diverse and vital art form. This presentation introduces eight basic types of blues songs and gives the audience a better understanding of the forms of songs that comprise the blues. The basic historical background of each song is discussed. Audience participation is encouraged."
Saturday, April 18
Market: Who Arted?
+ When: 1 to 5 pm
+ Where: Resonator Gallery, Turbine Flats, 2124 Y St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be items to purchase.
More details: A pop up market with local artisans!
Saturday, April 18
Music: Folxpelt + Hitchcock Blonde + Syinide
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 8:30 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $13
More details: The Sioux City-based Folxpelt will be joined by some cool Nebraska rock bands.
Saturday, April 18
Music: Hansen Airship + Corson Branch Buzzard Club
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: A high energy night of strings! Get ready to hear original and traditional Americana, Bluegrass, Blues, Roots, Folk and more.
Saturday, April 18
Music: The Killigans "This is Only a Drill" Album Release
+ When: 7 pm (doors), 8 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $22.09 (including fees)
More details: With support from The Bishops and Alli and I
Saturday, April 18
Music: Record Store Day 2026 at First Day Vinyl
+ When: 9 am to 8 pm
+ Where: First Day Vinyl, 7301 S 27th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free but support your local record store by buying music!
More details: "A day to celebrate independent record stores! Exclusive, limited vinyl pressings from hundreds of your favorite artists. Giveaways and prizes! Details ongoing on Instagram @firstdayvinyl"
Saturday, April 18
Music: The Whips – From Kansas, With Love Album Release Tour
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover!
More details: The KC-based funk pop group returns to Duffy's! Local support from Post Service Collective.
Sunday, April 19
Sunday, April 19
Outdoors: Wild Edibles Walk at Prairie Pines
+ When: 2 to 4 pm
+ Where: Prairie Pines, 3100 N 112th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join plant expert Bob Henrickson and Prairie Pines Partners on a guided hike at Prairie Pines to identify and discuss wild edibles. Get to know some common and easily identifiable emerging springtime plants by using your senses, while we learn about the nourishment and healing properties they offer. Learn to collect with respect for nature. Meet at the entrance kiosk."
Sunday, April 19
Books: Bling Your Book: Crafts & Beer at White Elm
+ When: 1 to 3 pm
+ Where: White Elm Brewing Co., 720 Van Dorn St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $20 | Buy advance tickets here
More details: "We’ll provide a book and all the “bling” you need to create a dazzling, one-of-a-kind book cover. Whether you're a crafter, a reader, or just looking for a good time with good people, this event is for you!"
A collaboration between Stuff Creative Reuse and Linked2Literacy.
Sunday, April 19
Books: Silent Book Club
+ When: 2:30 to 4 pm
+ Where: Sower Books, 914 N 70th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Come with a book of your choice and spend part of the evening reading quietly. Learn more about Silent Book Clubs here.
Sunday, April 19
Educational: Raising Backyard Chickens
+ When: 1 to 3 pm
+ Where: Bennett Martin Public Library, 136 S 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Interested in raising your own chickens? We'll teach you everything you need to know to have a happy, healthy flock!"
Sunday, April 19
Theater: Mid-Life The Crisis Musical
+ When: 2 pm
+ Where: The TADA Theatre, 701 P St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $20.18 (including fees) | Buy tickets here
More details: "If you can't beat it, enjoy a show about it! Everything from reading glasses, odd sounds when you sit down, trying to remember what you came into the room for, medication commercials with more side effects than solutions and other speed bumps are all lampooned with hilarious and charming songs, scenes and sketches in this must-see production. Four actors play all the roles in this quick-change extravaganza in a similar style to 'Saturday Night Live.' You don’t have to be middle aged to enjoy this entertaining show!"
More showings scheduled from April 16 to April 26. Find more details and showtimes on the theater's website here.
Things to do next week:
Tuesday, April 21
Music: Contortion + Fahr + Jiblets
+ When: 6 pm (doors), 6:30 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $12 for under 21
More details: So-Cal metal band Contortion is on their Bring Back the Guillotine tour, with support from local groups Fahr and Jiblets!
Monday, April 20
Music: Jazz Dispensary 10th Anniversary Listening Party
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: First Day Vinyl, 7301 S 27th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But the store requests that you RSVP on their website
More details: This will include an exclusive LP release of Cosmic Stash: HIGH Lights. There will also be giveaways of stickers and album flats, prize drawing for zoetrope slipmats and a jazz dispensary prescription pad.
Monday, April 20
Public Meeting: City Council
+ When: 3 to 5 pm
+ Where: Council Chambers, County/City Building, 555 South 10th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free and open to the public!
More details: The agenda for this meeting has not yet been posted, but will be found here.
Tuesday, April 21
Music: Noah Kahan 'The Great Divide' Early Listening Party
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: First Day Vinyl, 7301 S 27th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But the store requests that you RSVP on their website
More details: This listening party is now standing room only! If you're interested in going, I would sign up ASAP.
Tuesday, April 21
Outdoors: Third Tuesday Bird Outing
+ When: 8 to 10 am
+ Where: Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, 11700 SW 100th St., Denton, NE 68339 (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Our popular guided bird outings return in 2026. Every third Tuesday from April through October, join an experienced guide for a leisurely trip around the prairie trails looking and listening for birds. Everyone is welcome, from beginners to experts. Binoculars will be available to borrow."
Tuesday, April 21
Poetry: Lunchbox Lecture: The History of Spoken Word Poetry
+ When: noon to 1 pm
+ Where: Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall North (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Nebraska state poet Jewel Rodgers will give a talk about her own journey as a spoken word poet! Also, April is national poetry month. That's pretty cool.
Wednesday, April 22
Music: Sailing in Soup
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: A global tour of soul-enriched musical styles!
Thursday, April 23
Crafting: Hand Lettering Workshop with Holly
+ When: 4:30 to 6:30 pm
+ Where: STUFF Creative Reuse Store, 733 Hill Street, Suite B (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $5 per person | Buy tickets here
More details: Want to create beautiful handmade cards or design your own decorative banners? This class is for you.
Join Holly, a certified art educator and hand lettering enthusiast, as she walks you through the building blocks of hand lettering in a relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop. You’ll learn:
+ Simple strategies for learning any font
+ The foundational shapes and lines used in hand lettering
+ How to use tools you already have to create gorgeous lettering
Thursday, April 23
Film: Prairie Prophecy
+ When: 5:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details about the film: "'Prairie Prophecy' is a feature-length documentary taking viewers into the mind of ecological visionary Wes Jackson, founder of the regenerative agriculture movement."
One night only! Part of the Center for Great Plains Studies’ 50th anniversary celebration.
Thursday, April 23
Social: Weekly Leftist Meetup
+ When: 5 to 7 pm
+ Where: Jake's Beercade Jr., 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Organized by Lincoln DSA. More from their Instagram post: "Looking to find other left leaning people? Want to get more involved in local Sstate and/or national politics? Needing something more to do to make a difference? Join us at Beercade Jr. these Thursdays! Drop in and out at your leisure."
More meetups are scheduled for every Thursday in April.
Friday, April 24
Art: An Evening of Japanese Boro: Talks by Yoshiko Wada and Sandra Dudley
+ When: 4:30 pm (doors) | 5:15 pm (programming begins)
+ Where: International Quilt Museum, 1523 N. 33rd St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "At 5:15 pm, Sandra Dudley will present 'Boro: The Hidden and the Visible in the Museum' — a special talk merging the topic of Japanese Boro with her own research on material culture and the anthropology of displacement.
At 6 pm, join Yoshiko Wada for an in-depth guided tour of 'Boro: The Hidden and the Visible in Japanese Mended Textiles,' in which she will share fascinating insights from her years of studying Japanese boro textiles as well as from guest curating the exhibition."
Friday, April 24
Music: El Proyecto Super Show
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: El Proyecto, 2222 Y St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: An absolutely insane lineup of local bands. Nine — count them, nine — acts in one night:
+ @joe_magnolia_
+ @chloejeannekessler
+ @deanmichaeldalton
+ @h4ppy_john
+ @tysonmakesmusic
+ @sleepsinatra
+ @kellan.sager
+ @pilotlightlnk
+ @alls_band
Friday, April 24
Music: The Steppers
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 8:30 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: An Oklahoma jamgrass/fusion string band comes to 1867!
Friday, April 24
Plants: Spring Affair Plant Sale
+ When: 2 to 6 pm
+ Where: Sandhills Global Event Center, 4100 N 84th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: The biggest plant sale on the Great Plains! There will be more than 800 varieties of perennials, annuals, grasses, herbs, trees and shrubs for sale.
The sale continues on Saturday. There is also a ticketed preview of the event on Thursday. Learn more about that and buy tickets here.
Saturday, April 25
Books: Elleinad Books Grand Re-Opening
+ When: 9 am to 6 pm
+ Where: Elleinad Books - New Location! 4724 Prescott Ave (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Elleinad Books is moving to a new location in the College View neighborhood. They are holding a fully day of cool events to celebrate both the move and Independent Bookstore Day. Find a full schedule here.
Saturday, April 25
Earth Day Celebration
+ When: 10 am to 2 pm
+ Where: Nebraska Innovation Campus, 2021 Transformation Dr. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Multiple activities scheduled including a bike rodeo, face painting, and a clothing swap. Local food will be available. Join 40+ organizations in celebrating Earth Day!
Saturday, April 25
Music: The Breakroom + Smoke In The Sunlight + Hold Your Breath
+ When: 8 pm (doors) | 8:30 pm (show)
+ Where: MBX, 1330 N St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover! PWYC
More details: Some cool rock bands! Links to their music and socials:
+ The Breakroom - Groovy alt rock. Listen to their newest EP Just Think. Follow them on instagram
+ Smoke In The Sunlight - Indie rock. "The official band of sexual frustration." Listen to their EP Recess Demos. Follow them on instagram
+ Hold Your Breath - Pop punk. Listen to their single "A Way To Get By." Follow them on instagram
Saturday, April 25
Music: Humboldt's Quid
+ When: 10 pm
+ Where: Bodega's Alley, 1418 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: The Grand Island-based punk rock cover band returns to Lincoln!
Sunday, April 26
Market: Opening Day - Sunday Farmers Market at College View
+ When: 10 am to 2 pm
+ Where: 4801 Prescott Ave. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be items available for purchase.
More details: "We are so excited to kick off the 2026 Farmers Market season! Join us and welcome back many of our vendors from last season plus some new vendors! Listen to music and enjoy brunch/lunch as you shop through the market! Leashed dogs welcome!"
Sunday, April 26
Outdoors: Arbor Day LNK
+ When: noon to 3 pm
+ Where: Antelope Park (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Come celebrate Arbor Day in Lincoln! There will be over 450 free trees available in a variety of species. (First come, first serve!) There will also be live music, outdoor yoga, local food trucks, and free Papi Churros.
Things to do later this year:
Friday, May 1
Plants: Pot and Plant Sale
+ When: 7 to 10 pm
+ Where: The Garten - Parish Studios, 1418 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free to visit, but there will items available for purchase (obviously)
More details: "pick out a plant and a handmade pot for it to live in! we’ll have a range of plants and pots to choose from made by artists at The Garten"
Tuesday, April 28
Public Meeting: Lincoln Board of Education
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O St. (Google Maps)
More details: This meeting is open to the public. The agenda for this meeting has not yet been posted, but will be found here.
Thursday, April 30
Community: Nehemiah Action Assembly
+ When: 6:30 to 8 pm
+ Where: St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 8550 Pioneers Blvd. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Organized by Justice in Action, an interfaith, grassroots coalition of faith communities in Lancaster County.
Friday, May 1
Music: So-Called + Coup De Kill + The Sparrows
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 8:30 (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: So-Called and Coup De Kill, pop-punk emo groups from Wyoming, with support from local band The Sparrows!
Saturday, May 2
Market: Bethany in Bloom
+ When: 10 am to 3 pm
+ Where: N. Cotner Blvd from Holdrege to Aylesworth (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be items available for puchase.
More details: "Bethany in Bloom returns on May 2, bringing vendors, music, poetry, local businesses, and community organizations back to N. Cotner Blvd from Holdrege to Aylesworth. With 20 vendors already signed up, this year’s festival continues to grow into a full day of neighborhood activity."
Saturday, May 2
Organizing: Lincoln Tenants United Meeting
+ When: 11 am to 12:30 pm
+ Where: Bennett Martin Public Library, 136 S 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Our goal is to build relationships with our neighbors! Expect coffee, connections, and a special training to help us build our tenant power. Reach out to lnktenantsunited@proton.me or (402) 782-1511 if you have any questions or access needs."
Spanish interpretation will be available! The next meeting will be Saturday, July 11.
Sunday, May 3
Music: Make Believe Residency + Lazarus Go Home + Midusa
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 at the door | $13 for under 21 | 18+ show
More details: Some Nebraska bands! Links to their music and stuff:
+ Make Believe Residency: bandcamp / insta
+ Lazarus Go Home: spotify / insta
+ Midusa: spotify / insta
Wednesday, May 6
Market: Hub Farmers Market - Opening Day!
+ When: 5 to 7 pm
+ Where: Near the Hub Cafe, 250 N 21st St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be items to purchase.
More details: The season will run every Wednesday of May through September.
Friday, May 8
Poetry: Poetry at the Lion - Barbara Schmitz
+ When: 5:30 to 7:45 pm
+ Where: St. Mark's on the Campus Episcopal Church, 1309 R St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Each month, a featured poet will read from their works and shape the evening’s experience. Poetry lovers can stop on their way to eat out or bring a brown bag meal and stay for the whole evening. Light refreshments will be provided.
"Born in Omaha, Barbara Schmitz grew up where "the Platte and the Missouri rivers meet and kiss" and taught writing and literature at Northeast Community College for thirty years, founding the Visiting Writers Series there. Two of her poetry books, including How Much Our Dancing Has Improved, have won honors from the Nebraska Center for the Book. Schmitz recounts her spiritual search in her memoir Path of Lightning: A Seeker's Jagged Journey (2012). Always The Detail won Honor Book in Poetry in 2015."
Saturday, May 9
Music: Thirst Things First + Winnifred Worm Friend + Endorphins + Underbite
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: Some rocking local acts plus an LA-based alt rock band.
Tuesday, May 12
Public Meeting: Lincoln Board of Education
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O St. (Google Maps)
More details: This meeting is open to the public. The agenda for this meeting has not yet been posted, but will be found here.
Wednesday, May 13
Trivia: Statewide Nebraska Nature Nerd Trivia Night
+ When: 7 to 9 pm
+ Where: Code Beer, 200 S Antelope Valley Pkwy (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But you're encouraged to support the host brewery
More details: "Test your nature knowledge and team up with fellow nature lovers (teams of up to 5) to compete for fun, nerdy prizes awarded to the top three teams!" Organized by Nebraska Wildlife Education and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
Friday, May 15
Game Show: That Lincoln Dating Show
+ When: 7 pm (doors) | 8 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Tickets start at $25.18 (including online fees)
More details: "Let's face it, dating in the modern age is impossible! This classic dating show (hosted by Sarah O'Sullivan) will take the contestants AND audience on a journey of love. ❤️ Head back to the 60s & 70s with this modernized version of The Dating Game for local singles. Bring your boogie shoes and wear something groovy, you just might meet your happily ever after!"
Saturday, May 16
Music: Speak No Evil Music Festival
+ When: 7 pm (doors), 7:30 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $12 advance tickets | $15 day of show
More details: The inaugural festival will be a one-night event with all-local instrumental music bands and two stages. A huge lineup, including: The Machete Archive, Within Wilds, Whip Sigils, The Sub-Vectors, The Radical Sabbatical, Vector 23, Möbius, Custom Filth, Smith and Jessen, and Agrónomo.
Tuesday, May 19
Community: 2026 State of Civic Life Conference
+ When: 7:30 am to 6:30 pm
+ Where: Nebraska Innovation Campus Conference Center, 2021 Transformation Dr. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $75 | $50 for students
More details: "Civic Nebraska’s State of Civic Life Conference on Tuesday, May 19th 2026 will convene community organizers, civic educators, and system reform advocates to collaborate, educate, and plan for the future of our democracy and civic society in the heartland of the United States."
Wednesday, May 20
Music: POET + The Almas + Embers Rise + After Arizona
+ When: 6 pm (doors), 7 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $13.86 (including online fees)
Sunday, May 24
Music: WASTE + CATSCLAW
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $25.43 (with online fees) | Buy tickets here
More details: A night of metalcore!
Sunday, May 31
Books: Silent Book Club
+ When: 2:30 to 4 pm
+ Where: Sower Books, 914 N 70th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Come with a book of your choice and spend part of the evening reading quietly. Learn more about Silent Book Clubs here.
Friday, June 5
Music: 156/Silence + The World Without Us + The Tale Untold & Spiral
+ When: 6 pm (doors)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $28.20 (with online fees) | Buy tickets here
More details: Pittsburgh-based metalcore band 156/Silence with support from Nebraska bands.
Saturday, June 6
Market: Pepe's Birthday Bash
+ When: noon to 4 pm
+ Where: Pepe's Bistro, 1311 S 11th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be items available to purchase
More details: Local art + local food + live music + fun!
Saturday, July 11
Organizing: Lincoln Tenants United Meeting
+ When: 11 am to 12:30 pm
+ Where: Bennett Martin Public Library, 136 S 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Our goal is to build relationships with our neighbors! Expect coffee, connections, and a special training to help us build our tenant power. Reach out to lnktenantsunited@proton.me or (402) 782-1511 if you have any questions or access needs."
Spanish interpretation will be available!
Tuesday, July 21
Music: Alls + KJ Teder + Prairie Princess + Crab Waiver
+ When: 7 pm (doors), 7:30 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: Some cool local bands!