What to do this weekend - July 9, 2026
So what's up with 14th Street?
Hi,
Welcome back to This Week In Lincoln. This is my regular Thursday round-up of local events. You can find the event calendar below.
Given the ongoing construction on and around O Street, I was a bit worried about the status of Zoo Fest. (It starts tomorrow!) But as you can see in the photo above, which I took yesterday, construction crews have paved 14th Street. According to reporting from the Journal Star, this isn't the final form; it's a temporary layer of concrete that was installed, apparently, so the show could go on. Per the Journal Star:
Zoo Bar owner Pete Watters said ZooFest, the annual outdoor music festival, will continue as normal at North 14th and P streets on Friday and Saturday despite Project O Street shutting down the surrounding area.
While early ticket sales haven't been where they usually are, Watters is optimistic people will still show up. He thinks they're just waiting to see what kind of condition 14th Street is in.
Luckily, it's "smoother than it's been in years," he said.
After the city tore up 14th Street between O and P streets — now known as the Boehmer Street music district — as part of the massive overhaul of Lincoln's main downtown corridor, crews laid down a temporary 2-inch concrete layer for the event.
That will allow festivalgoers to safely travel from the adjacent businesses into the roadway, project manager Jared Nichl said.
The cost to lay down and remove that concrete after the event was included in Project O Street's budget, though Nichl did not know exactly how much.
It's just too bad 14th Street won't remain closed to cars permanently. More pedestrian boulevards please!
A reminder that you can submit things for future "What to do this weekend" posts. If you have events later in July and August, please tell me about them!
You can also just reach out and say hi. My email is tynanstewart@proton.me
~ Ty
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Thursday, July 9
Thursday, July 9
Theatre: Much Ado About Nothing
+ When: 7 to 9 pm
+ Where: Wyuka Stables, 3600 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $21.25 (includes fees) | Buy tickets here
More details: "Love is in the air, rumors are flying, and Beatrice and Benedick are ready to battle it out in Shakespeare’s funniest and most beloved comedy."
More shows July 10-12 and July 16-19.
Thursday, July 9
Film: The Doom Generation
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details about the film: "Gregg Araki takes a road trip to hell in this wild, meth- and fast-food-fueled joyride through the margins of a menacing American wasteland. When they inadvertently link up with a dangerously alluring drifter (Johnathon Schaech), a chilled-out Cali bro (James Duval) and his spiky, foulmouthed girlfriend (Rose McGowan) find themselves on an increasingly violent, kinky, and darkly comic journey in which erotic tensions rise along with the body count. Working with a significant budget for the first time, Araki employs boldly stylized lighting and art direction to create a heightened sense of unreality in a shocking, shoegaze-soundtracked chronicle of young lives careening toward oblivion." (Criterion)
Thursday, July 9
Film: My Father's Shadow
+ When: 5 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details about the film: "Tracking a single day’s journey into and around the Nigerian metropolis, Folarin (Sopé Dìrísù, Slow Horses, Gangs of London) and his young sons Akin (Godwin Egbo) and Remi (Chibuike Marvellous Egbo) reckon with their relationship while navigating a city on the precipice of democratic crisis. As shadows grow long across Lagos and details of Folarin’s life come to light, the strained nature of his connection to Akin and Remi becomes increasingly clear."
Thursday, July 9
Film: Another World
+ When: 4:50 pm | 7:10 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details about the film: "Gudo is a Soul Keeper, a spirit who guides human souls into their next life. When he befriends a young girl named Yuri, he discovers that her untimely death has left her cursed with unresolved rage and regret. As Yuri’s soul teeters on the edge of annihilation, Gudo embarks on a dangerous journey to stop her from unleashing horrible destruction on both the human world and the spirit realm."
Thursday, July 9
Music: KZUM’s Stranksy Park Concert Series: Hansen Airship and Rattlesnakes & Pearls!
+ When: 7 to 9 pm
+ Where: Stransky Park (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "This Thursday July 9th is going to be another great evening for music at Stransky! Head to 17th and Harrison St for a night of music with folky, bluegrass music from Hansen Airship and Rattlesnakes & Pearls! Anna's Papusa's will be serving up some great food. Bring your blankets, chairs, water, bug spray and some $$$ to support this free music series! We will be joined by our friends from Interrobang! and Parrish Studios. Visit their booth and participate in art for all and find out more about these amazing arts organizations!"
Thursday, July 9
Music: Live and local: Hathor + Cuddlebone + MegaDestroyer (all ages)
+ When: 7 pm (doors), 8 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: Be prepared for a very loud night of rock.
Thursday, July 9
Music: Meadowlark Music Festival - Sax & Violins
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Prairie Creek Inn, 2400 S 148th St., Walton, NE 68461 (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Tickets start at $15.18 | Buy here
More details: "Founded by acclaimed Kansas City bassist, educator, and arranger Gerald Spaits, Sax & Violins is an innovative ensemble that brings together a jazz quartet and a string quartet in a truly distinctive musical collaboration. Rather than serving as accompaniment, the strings and jazz musicians interact as equal partners, creating rich textures, spontaneous musical conversations, and performances filled with energy, nuance, and imagination."
Thursday, July 9
Music: Perception Zero + Sam Bennie + P.O.E. (18+)
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $5, $10 for under 21
More details: "Three Lincoln bands on this one! Perception Zero is a trio that mixes post-grunge and post-hardcore in a good way, Sam Bennie sings pop songs about the apocalypse, P.O.E. (featuring current and former members of The Credentials) rips your heart out and makes you confront feelings you didn't know you still had."
Thursday, July 9
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 10
Friday, July 10
Music: Cootie Catcher + Head of Femur + DJ Rugburn + Jet Set
+ When: 7 pm (doors), 8 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free or PWYC
More details: The eclectic indie pop band from Toronto comes to town! They have a new album: "Something We All Got." With support from Nebraska and Lincoln talent.
Friday, July 10
Art: Second Friday at LUX
+ When: 5 to 8 pm
+ Where: LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N 48th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Explore new exhibitions across our galleries, meet artists and fellow art lovers, enjoy refreshments and conversation."
Friday, July 10
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: "Meursault (Benjamin Voisin) works as a clerk at an office in Algiersduring the French colonial occupation. A modest man who keeps to himself, Meursault finds his routine upended by the sudden death of his mother. At her funeral, he faces scrutiny from all corners for his failure to perform his grief. This reputation for otherworldly detachment follows Meursault back to Algiers, where his tentative romance with Marie (Rebecca Marder) and his indifference to professional advancement frustrate those around him. As Meursault gets swept up in a cycle of escalating reprisals among his neighbors, tensions come to a head when he murders an Arab man on the beach. A Frenchman may offer many defenses for shooting an Arab in Algeria, but Meursault’s refusal of excuse or remorse shakes colonial society to its core. 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."
More showings through July 23!
Friday, July 10
Film: Stolen Kingdom
+ When: 5 pm | 7 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | $12 evening show
More details about the film: "Stolen Kingdom delves into the history of mischief, scandal, and theft at Walt Disney World, ultimately leading to the theft of an animatronic valued at nearly half a million dollars. The film features key figures from the park’s underground exploration community, each sharing their unique stories. As the narrative unfolds, early pranks and antics are shown to have inspired more recent crimes, culminating in a true crime mystery. What begins as a tale of friendship and passion ends with one lingering question: Who stole Buzzy?"
More showings through July 16!
Friday, July 10
Film: Movies in the Park: National Treasure
+ When: 8:45 pm
+ Where: Antelope Park Shildneck Bandshell, 1630 Memorial Dr. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Grab your blanket or a few chairs and come out for a free family-friendly movie in the park. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket. No RSVP or ticket needed."
Friday, July 10
Market: Garage Sale at Reactor
+ When: 6 to 10 pm
+ Where: Reactor, 2124 Y St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be stuff available for purchase
More details: Via their instagram: "OH MY GOD WE’RE HAVING A FIRE🔥🔥 (sale) OH THE BURNING IT BURNS ME… EVACUATE ALL THE SCHOOLCHILDREN! (AHHHHHH!)"
Featuring clothes, books, home goods, art prints and more!
Friday, July 10
Music: Meadowlark Music Festival - Brad Goode Quartet
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Milkweed Event Space, 6220 Havelock Ave. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Tickets start at $15.18 | Buy here
More details: "Described by the Chicago Tribune as “the lyrical genius of the trumpet,” Brad Goode is widely recognized as one of the most creative and versatile voices in contemporary jazz. A gifted improviser, composer, and multi-instrumentalist, Goode has built a distinguished career that bridges performance, education, and artistic innovation."
Friday, July 10
Music: Dorothy’s Dishes
+ When: 7 to 9 pm
+ Where: Crescent Moon Coffee, 140 N 8th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: A country-influenced acoustic band! Links to their stuff: insta / spotify
Friday, July 10
Music: Eighth Day Broken presents 29 Years of Noise
+ When: 6:30 to 9:30 pm
+ Where: White Elm Brewing Co, 720 Van Dorn St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Not sure if there's a cover!
More details: A show from a local punk band: insta / links / spotify
Friday, July 10
Music: Zoo Fest - Day 1
+ When: 5 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $35 each day | $60 weekend pass | Buy tickets here
More details: Celebrating 53 years of The Zoo Bar with an outdoor music festival at the corner of 14th and P Street! Continues on Saturday.
+ 5 pm - The Bel Airs
+ 7 pm - The Iguanas
+ 9 pm - Vanessa Collier
+ 11 pm - The Midland Band
Saturday, July 11
Saturday, July 11
Music: I Love You Forever: A benefit concert
+ When: 6:30 pm (doors), 7 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Tickets starting at $27.24 (including fees) | Buy here
More details: "Help uplift our local brothers and sisters in need with 'I Love You Forever,' a benefit featuring local artists for the recently unemployed and OutNebraska. Let's support one another during these hard times."
Saturday, July 11
Film: Coco
+ 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 11
Market: Community Free Market
+ When: 10 to 11:30 am
+ Where: Seng Park, 4925 Garland St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: “It’s like a yard sale, except everything is free!" Find more info, including tips on event etiquette, at the event's Facebook page.
Saturday, July 11
Market: East Campus Discovery Days and Farmers Market
+ When: 10 am to 1 pm
+ Where: East Campus Mall (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: “The East Campus Discovery Days at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is a fun, family-friendly event for all ages. It’s more than a farmer’s market. It’s more than a science day. Come for the hands-on, science focused fun. Stay to enjoy live music and food trucks. Shop at our farmers market and vendor fair. Enjoy a scoop of ice cream at the newly renovated UNL Dairy Store. Take in the beauty of the Backyard Farmer garden. Activities are free, food and crafts are available for purchase."
Saturday, July 11
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 11
Market: Bugeaters Vintage
+ When: 10 am to 4 pm
+ Where: Lincoln Tower Square, 1300 P St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free but there will be items for sale!
More details: "Whether you’re into perfectly faded graphic tees, vintage denim, femme, Y2K, and more, you’ll find plenty to dig through."
Saturday, July 11
Music: Meadowlark Music Festival - David von Kampen
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Prairie Creek Inn, 2400 S 148th St., Walton, NE 68461 (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Tickets start at $15.18 | Buy here
More details: "Award-winning composer and arranger David von Kampen brings multiple vocal jazz ensembles together for a performance showcasing his distinctive musical voice. Known for creating sophisticated arrangements rich in harmony, rhythm, and emotional depth, von Kampen has earned national recognition as one of Nebraska’s most accomplished composers and jazz writers."
Saturday, July 11
Music: "She's Got Jowls" Release Show (all ages)
+ When: 6 pm (doors), 7 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: Come out and celebrate the release of local band Alls's new album, She's Got Jowls. Also featuring performances from Omaha's Mouseheart and Boy Seeking Band.
Saturday, July 11
Music: Zoo Fest - Day 2
+ When: 5 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $35 each day | $60 weekend pass | Buy tickets here
More details: Celebrating 53 years of The Zoo Bar with an outdoor music festival at the corner of 14th and P Street! Continues on Saturday.
+ 1 pm - Cheap Death-A Blue Raven Student Project
+ 3 pm - Church of Blues
+ 5 pm - Texas Guitar Summit feat. Anson Funderburgh, Mike Morgan, and Shawn Pittman
+ 7 pm - The Mezcal Bros. feat. Dave Gonzalez
+ 9 pm - Sugaray Rayford
+ 11 pm - Groove Lagoon
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!
Sunday, July 12
Sunday, July 12
Science: Eight Legged Encounters
+ When: noon to 3 pm
+ Where: University of Nebraska State Museum - Morrill Hall, 645 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Included with the cost of admission
More details: "Crawl over to Morrill Hall and join researchers from the American Arachnological Society as they share all there is to know about the eight-legged creatures that are all around us. There will be more than 20 interactive, hands-on, art-infused activity stations with numerous games and crafts. Participants will also get to meet some of these arachnids in person!"
Sunday, July 12
Books: Summerween @ Sower Books - Mike Bockoven
+ When: noon (Cookbook Club), 1 pm (Mike Bockoven signing)
+ Where: Sower Books, 914 N 70th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: A mash-up of summer vibes and Halloween mischief.
The theme of the cookbook club is Summer Carnival Food: "Bring something if you’d like, or just come hang out and taste what others bring. Zero pressure, it's fun & you get to meet people who enjoy cooking!"
Then at 1 pm, author Mike Bockoven will sign his horror books.
Sunday, July 12
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: Arise Botanicals, Bamboo Closet, Katie Nieland Art, Lil D's Brownies, Pepe's Bistro, Single Stitch LNK and Sister Smith.
Sunday, July 12
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!
Sunday, July 12
Music: North by North + Smoke In the Sunlight + The Breakroom + Car Bar (all ages)
+ When: 6 pm (doors), 7 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $11 GA advance | $13 GA day of show | $2 under 21 fee at the door | Buy tickets here
More details: The Chicago-based power pop duo North by North visits town! With local support from some cool bands.
+ North by North: insta / linktree / spotify
+ Smoke in the Sunlight: insta / linktree / spotify
+ The Breakroom: insta / linktree / spotify
+ Car Bar: insta
Sunday, July 12
Music: America 250, Featuring the John Shildnneck Young Artist Award Winner
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Antelope Park Shildneck Bandshell, 1630 Memorial Dr. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: A performance from the Lincoln Municipal Band. "This concert will be conducted by Carolyn Barber and will feature the 2026 John Shildneck Young Artist winner, Ben Folkers, trombone. Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy a beautiful evening of music, family, and friends!"
Things to do next week:
Wednesday, July 15
Film: Remember the Drumstick
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details about the film: "Tim Lohmeier, by accident, created something in Nebraska in the 1980s – The Drumstick. A chicken restaurant by day and the hottest rock club in Nebraska by night. He booked some of the best music of the times BEFORE the rest of the world knew they were the best. Groups like Joan Jett, Luther Allison, Red Hot Chili Peppers, REM, Dwight Yoakam, X, Marty Stuart, Jason and the Scorchers. The Drumstick also gave local great plains musicians with original music a place to perform. Fab local acts like Charlie Burton and Rock Therapy, Boys with Toys, Model Citizens. The list goes on and on. Oh, and don’t forget the fried chicken and Texas toast. The building that housed the business was torn down in 1987 to make room for a fast food restaurant. Tim died in 1998. Very little remains of the club with the exception of a few photos, home videos and a lot of memories. Memories that are preserved in this documentary as part of the 1980s proud music history."
Part of the Made in Nebraska 2026 summer series!
Monday, July 13
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, July 14
History: History Unveiled: Rainbow Cattle Co.
+ When: 6 to 7 pm
+ Where: Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall North (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Nicholas Villanueva, Jr. joins us at the Nebraska History Museum on Monday, July 14th, at 6 pm to discuss his award-winning book Rainbow Cattle Co: Liberation, Inclusion, and the History of Gay Rodeo (University of Nebraska Press, 2024), which uncovers an important and overlooked chapter of LGBTQ history: the world of gay rodeo.
From the mid-1970s onward, LGBTQ rodeo athletes carved out a space where they could compete openly, challenge heteronormative ideas about sport and identity, and build community across the rural American West. What began as a safe space for athletes evolved into a powerful philanthropic force, one that was pivotal in the fight against AIDS."
Wednesday, July 15
Crafting: Craft Social with Community Critters
+ When: 5:30 pm
+ Where: Reactor, 2124 Y St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Come as you are. Come for community, come for crafting, come to share a skill! There is a closer [locked] door so if there are accessibility needs, message us and we can assist!"
Wednesday, July 15
Music: Lincoln Community Foundation Garden Performance Series presents Sklyark
+ When: noon to 1 pm
+ Where: Lincoln Community Foundation Garden, 1421 N St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Sklyark is a five member group known for playing a mix of rock and blues. Skylark's repertoire includes songs by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Bonnie Raitt, John Prine, Eric Clapton, Norah Jones, Sheryl Crow, Neil Young, and many others. The band came together fifteen years ago and have been performing together ever since."
Wednesday, July 15
Music: Live @ Telegraph - Raw Nerve
+ 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!
Thursday, July 16
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, July 16
Community: Crafting the Resistance (you can't be angry all the time)
+ 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 16
Film: Nowhere
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details about the film: "Gregg Araki’s Nowhere is a stylized foray into the nightmare world of adolescent highs and lows, but more than that, it functions as a study of an entire generation and the direction they’re headed. Where The Doom Generation seemed to be a wake-up call, Nowhere is more of a reflexive inquiry into the destiny of the seemingly apathetic youth who place more emphasis on style than substance. An ensemble piece with James Duval (star of all three of the films in the Teen Apocalypse Trilogy), Nowhere features a cast that mixes well-known faces—Ryan Philippe, Christina Applegate, Debi Mazar, Heather Graham, Guillermo Diaz, Denise Richards, Beverly D’Angelo, Shannen Doherty, and Tracy Lords—with up-and-comers."
Friday, July 17
Film: Trainspotting
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details about the film: "Funny, disturbing, tragic and deeply addictive, Trainspotting is based on the seminal best-selling novel of the same name by Irvine Welsh. Set in gritty, late 1980s Edinburgh, Scotland, it’s the story of smart, funny, sickly, heroin addict Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor) and his so-called friends – a bunch of losers, liars, psychos, thieves and junkies. Hilarious but harrowing, the film charts the disintegration of their friendship as they proceed, seemingly inevitably, towards self-destruction. Mark alone has the insight and opportunity to escape his fate, but does he really want to 'choose life'?"
Friday, July 17
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, July 18
Art: America 250 Community Celebration
+ When: 10 am to 2 pm
+ Where: International Quilt Museum, 1523 N. 33rd St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join Nebraska Public Media and the International Quilt Museum for a free, family-friendly open house celebrating the stories that connect us. This special event marks the culmination of a year-long America 250 initiative across Nebraska bringing communities together through events inspired by the docuseries 'The American Revolution.' Now, we gather to reflect, connect and celebrate the many voices and perspectives that shape our shared story."
An open house with crafting activities and access to the galleries!
Saturday, July 18
Film: Ferngully
+ 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 18
Party: North 27th Block Party - Buy Local, Live Local Showcase
+ When: 5 to 8 pm
+ Where: 505 N 27th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join your neighbors from Hartley, Clinton, and Malone/Hawley for the ultimate summer celebration right along the North 27th Street corridor!"
There will be free food, music, giveaways, and family-friendly activities!
Sunday, July 19
Music: Family Day with Nebraska Crossroads
+ When: 2 pm
+ Where: Sheldon Museum of Art, 12th and R St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join the Nebraska Crossroads Music Festival for another Family Day at Sheldon Museum of Art. Enjoy performances by festival musicians, create your own drum, paint it with a symbol that represents who you are, and take part in the music-making. We welcome children of all ages and their families to this fun, interactive day of music from around the globe. And don’t forget to take your new instrument home with you!"
Things to do later this year:
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 acts!
Tuesday, July 21
History: Lunchbox Lecture: After the Children’s Blizzard – The Life and Legacy of Minnie Mae Freeman
+ When: noon to 1 pm
+ Where: Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall North (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "While Minnie Freeman is known for her heroism in saving her school pupils during the Schoolhouse Blizzard of 1888, her other contributions to Nebraska have been largely forgotten. On July 21, from noon to 1pm, at the Nebraska History Museum, Amber Kirkendall from the Homestead National Historic Park in Beatrice will discuss Freeman’s life and work to promote civic values after the famous Blizzard, including Freeman’s work with the Daughters of the American Revolution and designing the Nebraska state seal."
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
Party: Block Party by the Creek
+ When: 10 am to noon
+ Where: 2406 J St.
+ 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
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.
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: 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
Saturday, August 1
Music: Rock The Vote!
+ When: 4 pm (doors) | 5 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Tickets starting at $13.86 (including fees)
More details: Featuring a bangin' lineup of bands: Estrogen Projection, Das Dat, The Hangin' Cowboys, Thirst Things First, and music from DJ $pencelove.
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.
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
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!
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!
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!
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.
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, 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
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."