What to do this weekend - July 23, 2026
Plus Mike Flood's town hall, another data center, and the Lancaster County fair.
Hi,
Welcome back to This Week In Lincoln. This is my regular Thursday round-up of local stuff to do. You can find the event calendar below. But first here's some other things you should know about:
- U.S. Rep. Mike Flood is holding another town hall at 5 pm on Tuesday, July 28 at the Vance D. Rogers Center for Fine Arts on Nebraska Wesleyan's campus. (Doors open at 4:15 pm.) There will be a Q&A session. So if you've got feelings about what Flood has been doing in Congress, here's your chance to tell him!
- Not quite in Lincoln, but still relevant: There's a community town hall on the proposed data center in Hallam scheduled for later today. It's happening 7 to 8:30 pm in the Hallam Auditorium, 315 Main St. It seems like this is being organized by Monolith, the company behind the data center, so I don't know how much of a public forum it will actually be. But if you want to know more about the project, it might be worth showing up.
- On a less serious note, the Lancaster County Super Fair on the horizon. It starts Thursday, July 30 and runs through Saturday, August 8 at the Sandhills Global Event Center. I didn't make it to the fair last summer (sad) but hoping to change that this year. (Hold me accountable.)
If you missed it, I wrote a thing about a lovely new house venue in Irvingdale last week:
Tynan Stewart
I'm always on the lookout for Lincoln's hidden gems or anything else you think is cool and isn't getting enough media attention for being cool. Send that stuff my way: tynanstewart@proton.me
This Week In Lincoln is now on Instagram. (Hooray?) Like every too-online millennial, my self-worth is tied to online metrics. So go follow me there and engage with all my stuff.
~ Ty
One of my long-term goals with this newsletter is to recruit other folks to write about Lincoln. But I'm not gonna ask people to do that for free. Writing is labor and folks deserve to be compensated for it! So please consider please consider signing up for a paid subscription to support that work.
Thursday, July 23
Thursday, July 23
Theater: 11th Annual First Flight Festival
+ When: 7 pm (doors)
+ Where: UNL Studio Theater, Temple Building (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $21 GA | $15 student tickets
More details: "Join us for an evening of short plays and monologues, written by local playwrights! Produced with minimal technical elements, First Flight Festival places focus on the script and often provides these artists an opportunity to hear their work for the first time!"
Find the full slate of performances here. The festival is also hosting a book drive in support of Linked2Literacy's upcoming Wordstock book-swap. Bring a (gently) used book and get a free concession item in exchange.
Thursday, July 23
Film: The Stranger
+ When: 4:50 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: "Photographed in sterling, sensuous black-and-white, François Ozon’s new take on Albert Camus’s classic novel of existentialist ennui is a landmark of adaptation, simultaneously faithful to the text and dedicated to discovering fresh perspectives in the margins."
Last chance to see this at the Ross!
Thursday, July 23
Music: KZUM’s Stranksy Park Concert Series: Hot Dealers
+ When: 7 to 9 pm
+ Where: Stransky Park (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Bring a lawn chair or a blanket for this week's concert in the park!
Thursday, July 23
Music: Shrive + Dip Tet + The Ulcer Twins
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $7 | $3 minor charge
More details: Minneapolis noise rock trio Shrive comes to town, with local support from werewolf blues practitioners Dip Tet and noise punk band The Ulcer Twins.
18+
Thursday, July 23
Outdoors: Mothing Night at Pioneers Park Nature Center
+ When: 8 to 10 pm
+ Where: Pioneers Park Nature Center (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! No registration required
More details: "Held at the Cunningham Schoolhouse as part of Nebraska Moth Week, this free, family-friendly program includes a guided evening walk through the prairie to observe moths and other wildlife that emerge at dusk. Participants will learn how light sources attract different species and gain insight into the essential ecological roles played by nocturnal insects. The event offers a opportunity to explore nighttime wildlife in a welcoming, guided setting."
Thursday, July 23
Social: Weekly Leftist Meetup
+ When: 5 to 7 pm
+ Where: The Hot Mess, 408 S 11th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Looking to find other progressive or left-leaning people? Want to get involved in local, state and/or national politics? Searching for more meaningful ways to get involved in your community or make an impact?"
Friday, July 24
Friday, July 24
Music: Blood of Lilith + The Mary Ellen Carter + Trimind + Evil Shadows
+ When: 7 pm (doors), 8 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10.87 advance tickets (buy here) | $15 at the door
More details: A night of hardcore metal! All ages!
Friday, July 24
Film: Mile End Kicks
+ 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: "It’s 2011 and Toronto music critic Grace (Barbie Ferreira) is on the brink of achieving her next big professional step. She takes a risk by quitting her job and moving to Montreal to take in the booming indie rock scene while writing a book about the impact and legacy of Alanis Morissette. There she meets the rockers of the band Bone Patrol, including Archie (Devon Bostick), who becomes her instant best friend, and Chevy (Stanley Simons), who becomes her deepest crush. Grace’s publishing deadline is looming and her rent is due, but Bone Patrol is a constant and welcome distraction."
More showings through Thursday, July 30.
Friday, July 24
Film: Reading Lolita in Tehran
+ When: 4:50 pm | 7:05 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | $12 evening show
More details about the film: "In revolutionary Iran, as fundamentalists tighten their grip on society, a professor secretly gathers seven of her most dedicated female students to read and discuss forbidden classics of Western literature, including Lolita and Pride and Prejudice. Based on the bestselling memoir by Azar Nafisi. A film by Eran Riklis starring Golshifteh Farahani (Paterson), Zar Amir (Holy Spider), and Mina Kavani (No Bears)."
More showings through Thursday, July 30.
Friday, July 24
Music: Doodly Squat
+ When: 5 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: An evening of country music.
Friday, July 24
Music: A Mark Thornton Experience + Andy Butler + Leslie Palensky
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: More country at the Zoo!
Friday, July 24
Rodeo: 2026 National High School Finals Rodeo
+ When: Events at multiple times
+ Where: Sandhills Global Event Center, 4100 N 84th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Single performance tickets - $18 for adults | $11 for kids 5-12 | Free for kids 4 and under
More details: "Known as the World Championship of High School Rodeo, NHSFR features events like bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, steer wrestling, and more—showcasing the future of the sport on a national stage. Beyond the arena, fans can explore a 5-acre trade show, packed with Western gear, apparel, tack, sponsors, and interactive experiences. Whether you’re a contestant, rodeo fan, or a Lincoln local looking for a summer tradition to enjoy, NHSFR offers nonstop action, Western culture, and family-friendly fun."
Continues on Saturday, July 25! Find the full schedule here.
Friday, July 24
Theatre: Much Ado About Nothing
+ When: 7 to 9:30 pm
+ Where: Eastmont, 6315 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Things are really heating up this Summer in Messina. After several weeks on Tour, the Boys are back in town. Will they put love in the air, or are they here for the wrong reasons? There's kissing and telling, masking and matchmaking, dancing and cocktails, bantering and mock tales, villains and vixens and a veritable feast of vibes. It's every bit reality, and nothing is true."
Saturday, July 25
Saturday, July 25
Sports: No Coast Roller Derby
+ When: 4 pm (doors), 5 pm (Road Warriors), 7 pm (Mad Maxines)
+ Where: Ice Box, 1880 Transformation Dr. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $18 GA | Buy tickets
More details: This weekend, the Lincoln's own Road Warriors face off against the Southern Oklahoma Roller Derby. Then, fan-favorite Mad Maxines will play the Brookings Area Roller Derby visiting from South Dakota.
Saturday, July 25
Books: Used Book Sale
+ When: 8 am to 4 pm
+ Where: Hickman Community Center, 115 Locust St, Hickman, NE 68372 (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Items (books) available for purchase!
More details: All items are $0.25 or fill a bag for $2!
Saturday, July 25
Film: Pee-wee’s Big Adventure
+ When: 11:30 am
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details about the film: Part of the Family Film Fest! Tickets must be picked up at the box office on the day of the show.
Saturday, July 25
Market: Haymarket Farmers' Market
+ When: 8 am to noon
+ Where: The Haymarket (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free, but there will be plenty of vendors to buy from.
Saturday, July 25
Market: Y Not Market
+ When: noon to 4 pm
+ Where: Turbine Flats, 2124 Y St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "The Y Not Market is a vendor market that celebrates artisans/makers/bakers/thrifters/upcyclers, from Lincoln & Omaha and the surrounding area. So grab your favorite people and come support some of the most EPIC people from the surrounding Lincoln/ Omaha Area!"
Saturday, July 25
Music: After Arizona Album Release Show (all ages)
+ When: 7 pm (doors), 8 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St.(Google Maps)
+ Cost: $13.86 (including fees) | $2 under 21 fee | Buy tickets here
More details: Local pop-punk band After Arizona is celebrating the release of their new album "So Clear." With support from Ghost Town Radio and The Other Side of Now.
Saturday, July 25
Music: blink-402 + The Black Parade + Gentz
+ When: 7 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 cover | $15 minors
More details: The Omaha based tribute band blink-402 is coming to town, accompanied by The Black Parade (a My Chemical Romance tribute band). With local support from Gentz!
All ages!
Saturday, July 25
Music: John Voyage + The Owls
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: The Omaha-based indie rocker John Voyage comes to town, joined by The Owls.
21+
Saturday, July 25
Music: Miracle Blood + Sweats + Violentears
+ When: 9 pm (doors), 10 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $7 | $3 minor charge
More details: The noise punk weekend with Miracle Blood who are visiting from Boston. They'll be joined by local band Sweats and Violentears (Omaha band Violenteer in their instrumental/three-piece form).
21+
Saturday, July 25
Outdoors: Nature Rendezvous
+ When: 9 am to 1 pm
+ Where: Prairie Pines Nature Preserve (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Spend the day exploring the trails and arboretum at Prairie Pines during Nature Rendezvous! This family-friendly event will feature nature-based activities, outdoor exploration, and opportunities to learn more about the wildlife, moths, bees, trees, and other living things that call Prairie Pines home."
Saturday, July 25
Party: Block Party by the Creek
+ When: 10 am to noon
+ Where: 2406 J St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join us for a neighborhood block party, along the trails west of 24th Street, near 2406 J Street (the historic Antelope Grocery building). Visit tables from neighborhood organization, connect with neighbors over snacks, and enjoy activities for all ages from our Block Party Trailer!"
Organized by NeighborWorks Lincoln and the Prairie Roots Community Land Trust.
Sunday, July 26
Sunday, July 26
Music: Nirvana Hope + Gentz + KJ Teder
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $7 | $3 minor charge
More details: Singer-songwriter Nirvana Hope visits Lincoln from Manhattan, Kansas. With support from local musician KJ Teder and Lincoln rockers Gentz!
18+
Sunday, July 26
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, July 26
Community: Freedom Summer: Make Kits for Canvassing
+ When: 1 to 3 pm
+ Where: Anderson Library, 3635 Touzalin Ave. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Come hang out and help put together informational kits with know-your-rights and voting resources, to be distributed throughout Lincoln. Sign up here." Organized by Indivisible, the DSA, and Taco Tuesday Familia.
Sunday, July 26
Market: 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: Check out this week's vendors!
Things to do next week:
Saturday, August 1
Music: Rock The Vote!
+ When: 4 pm (doors), 5 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: FREE! | There will be options to donate and all donations will go to artists.
More details: Featuring a bangin' lineup of bands: Estrogen Projection, Das Dat, The Hangin' Cowboys, Thirst Things First, and music from DJ $pencelove. More about Rock the Vote.
All ages show!
Monday, July 27
Art: Sketch Club + Doll making workshop
+ When: 7 to 11 pm
+ Where: Parrish Studios, 1410 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Come out and make art in community together! Sketch club artist Sophia Baker will lead the workshop.
Monday, July 27
Public Meeting: City Council
+ When: 5:30 to 7:30 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, July 28
Music: Brian Huntress + Not Ben Shin + Turtle Sanctuary
+ When: 6 pm (doors), 6:30 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $3 minor charge
More details: Brian Huntress, folk-punk songwriter, visits from Massachusetts. Joined by Lincoln-based Not Ben Shin and Omaha's Turtle Sanctuary.
Tuesday, July 28
Public Meeting: A Street from 40th Street to 56th Street - Public Information Open House Meeting
+ When: 5 to 7 pm
+ Where: Holmes Elementary School, 5230 Sumner St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free, open to all.
More details: The city is planning to resurface and widen A Street, and this is a chance for the public to learn more and provide input. Find more information about the project here.
Wednesday, July 29
Film: Reunion '61-'76
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details about the film: "Director John Spence’s experimental documentary chronicles Beatrice Senior High School Class of 1961 as they gather for their 15 year reunion in 1976. A unique time capsule of Nebraska’s political and social divides, Reunion explores the paths the classmates took after graduation, and how their lives were affected by the intervening Vietnam War, love generation, and political assassinations. This special presentation celebrates the film’s 50th anniversary and will be presented by Director John Spence and cinematographer Michael Farrell."
Part of the Made in Nebraska film series.
Wednesday, July 29
Music: Andean Music at the Gardens
+ When: noon
+ Where: Lincoln Community Foundation Garden, 1421 N St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join festival artists Amado Espinoza and Oscar Rios Pohirieth for a free lunchtime concert at the Lincoln Community Foundation Gardens. Bringing the rich traditions of Andean music to the heart of Lincoln, Amado joins the festival from Bolivia, while Oscar has been a beloved local artist and advocate for Andean music in Nebraska for decades. This concert is presented in partnership with the Lincoln Community Foundation Gardens Performance Series."
Wednesday, July 29
Music: Live @ Telegraph - Downtown Collective
+ When: 6 to 9 pm
+ Where: The Mill - Telegraph (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: All ages. Bring your family, your pets, and a chair!
Wednesday, July 29
Music: Women In Peril + Estrogen Projection + Little Plastic Dinosaurs
+ When: 6 pm (doors), 7 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $11 GA advance | $15 GA day of show | $2 under 21 fee at the door | Buy tickets here
More details: LA-based band Women in Peril self-describes as "your favorite breed of dog rock," and they're on tour! With support from local fave Estrogen Projection and Boston-based Little Plastic Dinosaurs.
+ Women in Peril: bandcamp / insta / linktree
+ Estrogen Projection: bandcamp / insta / linktree
+ Little Plastic Dinosaurs: bandcamp / insta / linktree
Thursday, July 30
Community: Crafting the Resistance
+ When: 9 to 11 am
+ Where: The Hub Cafe, 250 N 21st St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Bring your crafting project or just come for coffee. (Bring a donation for Little Free Pantries.) Recurs every Thursday!
Thursday, July 30 - Saturday, August 8
County Fair: Lancaster County Super Fair
+ When: Various times
+ Where: Sandhills Global Event Center, 4100 N 84th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "10 action-packed days of exhibits, competitions, free live music, exciting grandstand events like the demo derby and bull riding—plus a midway jampacked with rides, games, and all your favorite foods on a stick!"
Find the full schedule here.
Thursday, July 30
Music: Esophonic + Winnifred, Worm Friend
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: PWYC
More details: A night of electronic music from some rad musicians!
Thursday, July 30
Music: Nebraska Crossroads - Lincoln Showcase at Stransky Park
+ When: 7 to 9 pm
+ Where: Stransky Park (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! | RSVP required
More details: "Join us for an evening featuring some of the festival’s most exciting artists–including Guggenheim Fellow and Tabla superstar Sandeep Das and Bolivian multi-instrumentalist Amado Espinoza—right in the heart of Lincoln."
Thursday, July 30
Public Meeting: Lincoln Commission on Human Rights
+ When: 3:45 to 4:45 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.
Friday, July 31
Film: Ask E. Jean
+ When: Showtimes TBD
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | $12 evening show
More details about the film: "Ask E. Jean is the thrilling story of E. Jean Carroll’s life, from her early days as Miss Cheerleader USA to her rise as a trailblazing journalist, author, and beloved advice columnist. Carroll broke barriers as the first female editor at Esquire, Playboy, and Outside, helping to redefine women’s roles in media with her sharp wit and fearless voice. In recent years, she reignited public discourse by standing up to power, becoming the only woman to beat Donald Trump twice in court, and sparking a national conversation about truth, accountability, and resilience. This film is a portrait of an indomitable woman who proved it’s never too late to reclaim your voice, rewrite your story, and change the world. "
More showings through Thursday, August 6.
Friday, July 31
Film: I Want Your Sex
+ When: Showtimes TBD
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | $12 evening show
More details about the film: "The latest from New Queer Cinema pioneer Gregg Araki ... I Want Your Sex tells the story of Elliot (Cooper Hoffman), a kind-hearted if unmotivated twentysomething whose fantasies quickly come true when he lands a job with renowned artist and provocateur Erika Tracy (Olivia Wilde). When Erika breaks down office boundaries and takes Elliot on as her sexual muse and subordinate, their sexually charged relationship makes him question his own desires, boundaries, and relationships with his uptight girlfriend (Charli XCX) and repressed roommate (Chase Sui Wonders). As the stakes heighten and power dynamics shift, the film mixes satire, romantic comedy, mystery, and murder through the colorful and edgy visual language for which Araki is best known."
More showings through Thursday, August 6.
Friday, July 31
Film: Nine Little Indians
+ When: Showtimes TBD
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | $12 evening show
More details about the film: "Nine Little Indians is the harrowing story of the nine Charbonneau sisters and their childhood schoolmates who endured horrific abuse at St. Paul’s Indian Mission School in Marty,South Dakota, in the mid-20th century. Executive produced by Leonardo DiCaprio and Tony Robbins, the documentary chronicles the Charbonneau sisters’ nearly two-decade-long legal battle to hold the Catholic Church accountable for the heinous crimes inflicted upon the plaintiffs listed on their lawsuit, the survivors unwilling to be named, and the children who had perished at St. Paul’s— among them, Geraldine 'Gerri' Charbonneau’s baby."
More showings through Thursday, August 6.
Saturday, August 1
Film: KPop Demon Hunters
+ When: 11:30 am
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details about the film: Part of the Family Film Fest! Tickets must be picked up at the box office on the day of the show.
Saturday, August 1
Music: A KZUM Benefit at the Zoo Bar
+ When: 5 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $13
More details: Jerry Garcia Birthday Bash featuring the Dire Wolves Electric Quartet with Mark Leeker, Casy Hodgin, Bill Sammon and Blake Beiremann.
Saturday, August 1
Music: The Galentines
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $12 cover
More details: The cool all-girl, indie rock band The Galentines visits from Boulder.
Sunday, August 2
Crafting: Stuff Creative Reuse 1st Anniversary Party!
+ When: 11 am to 3 pm
+ Where: STUFF creative reuse store, 733 Hill St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Seems to be free?
More details: "We will be open for ONE YEAR, and it’s all because of this incredible community. Whether you’ve donated supplies, shopped our shelves, volunteered your time, or shared our mission with a friend, you’ve helped make this first year something truly special."
Featuring crafts, food, and shopping throughout the whole store.
Things to do later this year:
Thursday, August 6
Music: The Sounds Of Many + Joyrager + Eden Park
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $5 | $2 minor charge
More details: KC-based band The Sounds of Many are coming to Lincoln with local support from two of the scene's cool bands, Joyrager and Eden Park.
18+
Tuesday, August 4
Music: Cam Girl + Hosting Monsters + Blowing Chunks
+ When: 7 pm (doors)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: Some cool bands!
+ Cam Girl: bandcamp / insta / website
+ Hosting Monsters: insta / youtube
Wednesday, August 5
Film: The Indian Runner
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details about the film: "After getting into trouble with the law, violence-prone Frank Roberts (Viggo Mortensen) seeks help from his brother Joe (David Morse), an even-tempered policeman. Frank hopes to start fresh, and his brother has faith that he can do it. So Joe agrees to let Frank stay — despite the admonitions of his wife, Maria (Valeria Golino), who would rather not have Frank in the house. And though he performs well at first, Frank’s inner turmoil eventually erupts, creating chaos in their once tranquil home."
Part of the Made in Nebraska film series! Nebraska Filming Locations include: Plattsmouth, Omaha, Council Bluffs, Arlington, and Ralston.
Thursday, August 6
Music: Gillian Welch and David Rawlings
+ When: 6:30 pm (doors) | 7:30 pm (show)
+ Where: Rococo Theatre, 140 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: 3rd floor GA balcony tickets are $39.50 | Other tickets are sold out!
More details: American folk legends!
Friday, August 7
Books: Visiting Author — Colleen Morton Busch in conversation with Judy Lorenzen
+ When: 4:30 to 5:30 pm
+ Where: Francie & Finch Bookshop, 130 S 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Seems to be free?
More details: "Join us as we welcome Ex Ophidia’s 2025 winner for the Richard-Gabriel Rummonds Poetry Prize, Colleen Morton Busch, as she presents her book of poetry Smolder. Colleen will be joined in conversation by writer Judy Lorenzen."
Saturday, August 8
Art: Drop in Tour: Dog Walking the Outdoor Sculptures
+ When: 2 pm
+ Where: Sheldon Museum of Art, 12th and R St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "An event for the dog lovers in our community. Join a Sheldon educator for a special dog walking tour of the sculptures around Sheldon and the broader UNL campus. Dogs are must wear a leash for the entirety of their time on the campus."
Saturday, August 8
Books: Meet Nebraska Historian Ed Zimmer
+ When: 4:30 to 5:30 pm
+ Where: Francie & Finch Bookshop, 130 S 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Seems to be free?
More details: "Francie & Finch Bookshop is celebrating 10 years in the historic Telephone Building! Join us on August 8th as beloved local historian and author Ed Zimmer takes us on an in-depth journey through the history of our home, the LincolnTelephone Building and the Nebraska Telephone Company!"
Saturday, August 8
Crafting: Floral Design Workshop at Sheldon Museum of Art
+ When: 3 to 4:30 pm
+ Where: Sheldon Museum of Art, 12th and R St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $40 for members | $55 for nonmembers | Registration deadline is August 5
More details: "Join us for an afternoon of hands-on floral design at the Sheldon Museum of Art! In this workshop you'll learn the basics of selecting and preparing flowers, then build your own foam-free bouquet using sustainable floral design techniques.
We'll provide a beautiful mix of seasonal and staple blooms, but feel free to bring your own home-grown or store-bought flowers if you have a specific bloom in mind. A complimentary lemonade bar and charcuterie cups will keep you refreshed as you create your floral masterpiece."
Thursday, August 13
Books: Weeknight Silent Book Club at Saro!
+ When: 5:30 to 7 pm
+ Where: Saro Cider, 1746 N 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. One hour of silent reading and a half hour of optional chat time!
Thursday, August 13
Music: Phoebe Bridgers - ‘Lost Weekend’ Release Party
+ When: 11:30 pm
+ Where: First Day Vinyl, 7301 S 27th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! | RSVP requested
More details: "there is an exclusive midnight release vinyl variant only available at this event! the ‘lost weekend’ white label edition pressed on zodiacal light vinyl (iridescent white w/blue & glitter streaks)"
Friday, August 14
Poetry: Poetry at the Lion - Robert Fernandez
+ 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."
The featured poet this month is Robert Fernandez, author of Scarecrow (Wesleyan University Press, 2016), as well as Pink Reef (2013) and We Are Pharaoh (2011).
Saturday, August 15
Books: Authors Against ICE: Lincoln Edition!
+ When: TBD
+ Where: Sower Books, 914 N 70th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: "Come on out for some author readings, art, and raffles. Our community will not be silent about the human rights violations happening in our state and beyond."
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Sower’s website. All proceeds will be split between the Center for Legal Immigration and Nebraska Appleseed.
Saturday, August 15
Zines: Salt Creek Zine Fest 2026
+ When: noon to 4 pm
+ Where: F Street Community Center, 1225 F St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Applications open now!
Sunday, August 16
Books: Feminist Book Club
+ When: 1 to 2 pm
+ Where: Sower Books, 914 N 70th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Meets the 3rd Sunday of the month & they have a different book every month! You do not have to have read the book to attend!"
Sunday, August 16
Market: Summer Sundays
+ When: 10 am to 1 pm
+ Where: Curio, 1356 S 33rd St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be items available for purchase.
More details: Local artists, makers and vintage finds. The vendor lineup includes: Abigail E. P., Froggy's Fortune, Kinsley Cora, Link x Lou, Lovelies, Matt Bukrey Studios, Stained Glass by Abby and The Thursday Club Matcha Bar!
Friday, August 21
Market: Uni Place Makers Market
+ When: 6 to 10 pm
+ Where: Uni Place Creative District, St. Paul Ave between N 50th and N 47th (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free but there will be items available for purchase!
More details: There will be local vendors, live music and food trucks!
Artists and vendors can apply here for future markets, happening each third Friday of the month.
Saturday, August 22
Books: 4th Annual Wordstock
+ When: 10 am to 1 pm
+ Where: Auld Pavilion @ Antelope Park (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "WORDSTOCK attendees will enjoy unlimited books to take home, food trucks, carnival games, along with engaging stories from local celebrity readers who share our passion for literacy."
Also, be on the lookout for book drop locations around Lincoln where you'll be able to donate used books to be distributed at the event.
Friday, August 28 - Sunday, August 30
Film: Prairie Pride Film Festival
+ When: TBD
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: TBD
More details: "OutNebraska is proud to present the 15th Annual Prairie Pride Film Festival. For fifteen years, PPFF has amplified LGBTQ+ voices through film, bringing queer stories of identity, family, community, and belonging to Nebraska audiences."
Saturday, August 29
Art: Summerfest
+ When: 10 am to 2 pm
+ Where: LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N 48th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Our biggest community event of the year is coming up, and you don't want to miss it! This year, we're closing 48th Street – where there will be live installations of three new crosswalk murals , a steamroller printing demo, art activities for the whole family, food trucks, live music and more!"
Saturday, August 29
Market: Plus Pop
+ When: noon to 4 pm
+ Where: Saro Cider, 1746 N St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there be items available for purchase.
More deta
ils: "Plus Pop is a plus size pop-up featuring gender inclusive vendors sizes L/Xl+ and fat-centered artists, designers, and makers. Plus Pop is for individuals of all identities sizes 12/36-38 & up."
Find more details including a list of vendors at the link above.
Saturday, September 12
Festival: Latino Festival
+ When: 2 to 7 pm
+ Where: Antelope Park, 1650 Memorial Dr. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "This wonderful event celebrates the rich tapestry of cultures which make our community so vibrant. Best of all? It’s free! Featuring delicious food and drink, performances, local vendors, community resource booths and more, you won’t want to miss it."
Saturday, September 12
Market: Art in the Garden
+ When: 10 am to 6 pm
+ Where: Sunken Gardens, 2600 D St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "It's the 14th annual Art in the Garden! Dozens of local and regional artists will fill the Sunken Gardens with their original art for you to view and purchase. Enjoy live music and food trucks. This all-ages event is free to attend and has free parking. This year's theme is Patchwork Garden, inspired by the International Quilt Museum. Mark your calendars and get ready to join us!"
Sunday, September 13
Market: Summer Sundays
+ When: 10 am to 1 pm
+ Where: Curio, 1356 S 33rd St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be items available for purchase.
More details: Local artists, makers and vintage finds. The vendor lineup includes: Dominique Ellis, DJ HairBrain, Justin Grabenschroer Photography, Kaptains Port, Lemon's Loaves Sourdough Bakery, Megan Schroll Art and Rag Mountain Vintage!
Sunday, September 13
Music: Porch Jam 2026 (all ages)
+ When: 1 to 5 pm
+ Where: Cooper Park, 600 D St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Porch Jam is a FREE all ages community event that takes place at Cooper Park and porches of the South Salt Creek Neighborhood. Porch Jam will have a total of 6 stages including one student stage, food vendors, and more! More details will be announced closer to the date."