What to do this weekend - October 1, 2026
Plus more details about this year's Fright Fest!
Hi,
This is my round-up of local events that publishes every Thursday morning. You can find the calendar below.
Here's a link to submit events for future posts. I'm still actively looking for stuff happening in November and December.
And here's some other stuff you should know:
- It's finally October and the Ross Theater's Fright Fest starts tonight! I've included the films (all 30 of them!) in the event calendar below, but you can find the full list and links to buy tickets here.
- It's First Friday this weekend! It seems like the endless rain of the past week might finally be letting up, so this is a good chance to get out of the house.
Paid subscriptions to This Week in Lincoln are said to bring health, wealth, and happiness (and also access to subscriber-exclusive posts). So what are you waiting for? Sign up to become a financial supporter of the newsletter. You probably won't regret it.*
* These claims have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Thanks for reading!
~ Ty
P.S. You can always reach me with questions or angry rants at tynanstewart@proton.me
Thursday, October 1
Thursday, October 1
Music: Shadow Work + Jet Set! + Mouse Heart
+ When: 6 pm (doors) | 7 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $3 minor charge
More details: Denver's indie psych-rock band Shadow Work is coming to town with support from the Lincoln punks in Jet Set! and Omaha riot grrrls Mouse Heart.
All ages show!
Thursday, October 1
Film: Beetlejuice (1988)
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Thursday, October 1
Film: Creepshow (1982)
+ When: 8 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Thursday, October 1
Film: The Marching Band
+ When: 5:10 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | Half price for UNL students!
More details about the film: "A world-famous orchestra conductor discovers the brother he never knew he had — a school cafeteria worker who plays trombone in a local marching band. Detecting his brother’s exceptional musical talent, he takes it upon himself to rectify the injustice of fate. An equally hilarious and affecting crowdpleaser that premiered at Cannes and became a French box office sensation starring Benjamin Lavernhe (My Donkey, My Lover & I) and Pierre Lottin (The Stranger)."
Thursday, October 1
Film: Tony
+ When: 7:20 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $12 evening | Half price for UNL students!
More details about the film: Director Matt Johnson's new biopic of Anthony Bourdain, featuring Holdovers star Dominic Sessa as the titular character.
Last chance to see this at the Ross!
Thursday, October 1
Music: Midwest Madness Tour: Soulcage + Rapture + Phuzz
+ When: 6:30 pm (doors) | 7 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $15 day of show | $18 for under 18
More details: Soulcage is a hard rock/nu-grunge band from Des Moines. They'll be joined by KC-based Rapture and local stoners Phuzz.
All ages show!
Thursday, October 1
Music: Remi Wolf 'Mud' Early Listening Party
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: First Day Vinyl, 7301 S 27th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! | RSVP here
More details: Come out to for a chance to listen of Remi Wolf's new album Mud a week before it releases. Plus giveaways and a prize drawing! If enough folks RSVP, they will feed you pizza
Thursday, October 1
Music: Shithook Live Band Karaoke!
+ When: 9:30 to 10:55 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Not sure about a cover
More details: You pick the song. Shithook plays it live! "They’re not just a band… they’re YOUR band."
21+ show!
Thursday, October 1
Poetry: Kazim Ali Poetry Reading
+ When: 5:30 to 7 pm
+ Where: Sheldon Museum of Art, 12th and R St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost:
More details: Visiting poet Kazim Ali reads from "The Man in 119," his new collection.
Thursday, October 1
Theater: The Wolves
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Studio Theatre - Temple Building, 1209 R St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $25 adult tickets | $15 student tickets | Buy tickets here
More details: "This tightly staged, high-energy 90-minute play (no intermission) drops us into the world of a high school girls’ soccer team as they navigate the rhythms of competition, identity, and connection. With sharp, overlapping dialogue and a keen ear for the complexity of young women’s lives, the play captures both the intimacy and isolation of adolescence. The Wolves was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama."
More showings through October 11!
Friday, October 2
Friday, October 2
Art: "New Horizons" Gallery Talk with Student Curators
+ When: 5 to 7 pm
+ Where: Sheldon Museum of Art, 12th and R St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: The Sheldon will stay open late just like every First Friday. This month, come for a gallery talk by the student curators of the exhibition "New Horizons" at 5 pm, followed by an immersive tour of the exhibition "Remembering Modern Art" at 5:30 pm.
Friday, October 2
Art: First Friday
+ When: The earliest receptions typically start at 5 pm
+ Where: Downtown Lincoln
+ Cost: Free!
More details: The first Friday of every month a bunch of galleries and businesses are open late to showcase the work of Lincoln artists. Come out and support local art!
Friday, October 2
Art: First Friday: Why Arts at the International Quilt Museum
+ When: 4 to 7 pm (free gallery access) | 5:30 pm (talk begins)
+ Where: International Quilt Museum, 1523 N. 33rd St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: WhyArts Executive Director Mary Kingslan Gibilisco is visiting the museum to discuss why access to the arts matters, as well as WhyArts' commitment to people with disabilities and other underserved populations. Guests will also have the chance to contribute to a quilt-inspired collaborative art project.
Friday, October 2
Art: First Friday at LUX Center
+ When: 5 to 8 pm
+ Where: LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N 48th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Explore the LUX Center's galleries featuring two new shows. Artist Larry Buller will give an artist talk on one of them: "Gaze: Jockstraps, Bunnies and the Devine."
Friday, October 2
Art: First Friday Show: Growing Pains by Pha Nguyen
+ When: 5 to 8 pm
+ Where: Resonator Gallery at Turbine Flats, 2124 Y St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Pha Nguyen is a multidisciplinary artist based in Lincoln, Nebraska. In his paintings and drawings, Nguyen explore the intricate connection between the human experiences, the natural world, and our capacity for intimacy. These pieces serve as both an excavation and a ritual, transforming internal grief and connection into tangible, otherworldly spaces."
Friday, October 2
Crafting: Free First Friday Craft Night
+ When: 6 to 8 pm
+ Where: Handspoken Fair Trade, 801 P St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: A chance to experiment with wool needle felting and create your own handmade fluffy friend. All materials are free and will be provided at the event!
Friday, October 2
Film: 28 Days Later (2002)
+ When: 6:45 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Friday, October 2
Film: [REC] (2007)
+ When: 9:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Friday, October 2
Film: The Incomer
+ When: 5:10 pm | 7:20 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | $12 evening show | Half price for UNL students!
More details about the film: "On a remote Scottish isle, siblings Isla and Sandy spend their days hunting seabirds and retelling the stories of their ancestors. They follow the strict rules inherited from their late father — protect the island, allow no incomer, survive — until one day, Daniel, an awkward and socially inept council official, arrives to evacuate them. Bringing with him the strange mainland ways of laws, paperwork, veganism and internet wizardry, he turns their world upside down."
Friday, October 2
Film: On A String
+ When: 4:50 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 matinee | Half price for UNL students!
More details about the film: "Isabel (Isabel Hagen) is a young, Juilliard-trained violist still living at home with her parents in the heart of New York City. She’s trying to make a living playing gigs with her friends but when her toxic ex- boyfriend reappears, who also happens to be the Philharmonic’s 'newest, hottest cellist,' he informs her of a viola opening in the prestigious orchestra. Nothing can go wrong, right?"
Friday, October 2
Market: First Friday at Tower Square
+ When: 5 to 9 pm
+ Where: Tower Square, 1300 P St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free but there will be items for sale!
More details: Come for an art market, treats and live music from local musician Happy John.
Friday, October 2
Music: Candy and Joshua Carpenter of The Band Wanted
+ When: 8 to 11 pm
+ Where: Gray’s Keg, 104 N 20th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Not sure if there's a cover!
More details: The touring country duo is coming to Lincoln!
Friday, October 2
Music: KC Bones
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $12
More details: KC Bones is a Grateful Dead cover band visiting from (surprise!) Kansas City
Friday, October 2
Music: Red Cloud Rendezvous + Dorothy’s Dishes + Nirvana Hope + Pseudo Saints
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $15 day of show | $18 for under 18
More details: Red Cloud Rendezvous is a country/folk band based in Lincoln and they'll be joined by fellow locals Dorothy's Dishes, Kansas's singer-songwriter Nirvana Hope and Pseudo Saints.
All ages show!
Friday, October 2
Outdoors: Smores and Gourds
+ When: 6 to 7:30 pm
+ Where: Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington Ave. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Families can enjoy pumpkin carving, s'mores, and a free meal while supplies last. This hands-on event is designed to connect youth with nature through creative and engaging activities."
Followed by a 7:30 pm showing of The Wild Robot (part of Movies in the Park).
Friday, October 2
Theater: Coriolanus
+ When: 6:30 pm (doors) | 7 to 9:30 pm
+ Where: The Stables at Wyuka Cemetery, 3600 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $21.25 | Buy tickets here
More details: "Rome: now. The landscape of leadership is shifting like sand. The people are starving and rioting in the streets. Who can keep the peace when the status quo is collapsing? Coriolanus --a celebrated war hero is returning to the city in triumph. When he refuses to “play the game” and appeal to the ‘lower” classes he disdains to secure their vote for office, he is branded a traitor and banished from the city. Now… he’s returning with a vengeance. Coriolanus—anger is my meat."
A Flatwater Shakespeare production. More showings through October 10.
Saturday, October 3
Saturday, October 3
Music: The Stroppers + The Dinks + Gabriel the Brute
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $17.85 including fees | Buy tickets here
More details: The Stroppers, a grunge blues duo out of Kansas City, are visiting town. They'll be joined by Kearney's blues punk duo, The Dinks, and Gabriel the Brute, a solo acoustic rocker (and a local!)
All ages show!
Saturday, October 3
Books: Quirky Book Club
+ When: 10 am to 2 pm
+ Where: Sower Books, 914 N 70th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: A group that gets together and talks about what they are currently reading!
Saturday, October 3
Civic: Building Lincoln's Future: The Infrastructure Projects Shaping Our City
+ When: 1 to 2 pm
+ Where: Gere Branch Library, 2400 South 56th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Lincoln Transportation & Utilities Director Elizabeth Elliott will give a behind-the-scenes look at current city projects and describe how they'll "improve reliability, sustainability, mobility, and quality of life for everyone who calls Lincoln home." Her presentation will also explore water conservation, drought preparedness, and how residents can help protect the Lincoln community's future.
Part of the city's Civic Lowdown series.
Saturday, October 3
Community: Crafting the Resistance
+ When: 9 to 11 am
+ Where: Meadowlark Coffee, 1624 South 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 Saturday!
Saturday, October 3
Music: Blues Reckoning
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $8
More details: "Blues Reckoning brings scorching Blues to your dancing feet!"
Sunday, October 4
Sunday, October 4
Zines: Junk Drawer Release Party
+ When: noon to 4 pm
+ Where: Resonator Gallery at Turbine Flats, 2124 Y St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free but there will be items to purchase!
More details: Join local zine Junk Drawer for the release of their sixth issue: Midwest Macabre. Come read spooky stories and shop at a local art market!
Sunday, October 4
Film: The Substance (2024)
+ When: 6:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Sunday, October 4
History: One Book One Lincoln - Explore History Through Cuneiform
+ When: 2 to 3:30 pm
+ Where: Bennett Martin Public Library, 136 S 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: A chance to see 4,000 year-old cuneiform tablets! Come out and hear Katelyn McMullin and Dr. Bailey Barnard of the UNL State Museum at Morrill Hall talk about their history.
This event is part of One Book One and inspired by finalist, There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak.
Sunday, October 4
Music: Hadiza + Vera Devorah + Heavier Than Air
+ When: 8 pm (doors) | 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $7 | $3 minor charge
More details: KC-based gothic soul musician Hadiza is visiting Lincoln. They'll be joined by local experimental music collective Heavier Than Air and singer-songwriter Vera Devorah.
18+ show!
Things to do next week:
Tuesday, October 6
Music: The HIRS Collective + Disrepair + SWAMPD
+ When: 7 pm (doors) | 8 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $15 advance (not including fees) | $20 day of show | Buy tickets here
More details: The HIRS Collective, formerly known as +HIRS+, is an American queer punk musical group in Philadelphia. They'll be joined by Lincoln punks Disrepair and Omaha's queer stoner noise band SWAMP.
All ages show!
Monday, October 5
Art: Sketch Club
+ 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!
Monday, October 5
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.
Wednesday, October 7
Film: An American Werewolf in London (1981)
+ When: 7:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Wednesday, October 7
Music: Empty Suits + Black Strat Theory + Synide
+ When: 8 pm (doors) | 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $7 | $3 under 21 charge
More details: A night of noise rock and post-hardcore, featuring Lincoln's own Empty Suits, Black Strat Theory and Synide.
18+ show!
Wednesday, October 7
Music: Opal In Sky + Levels + Mirrorcell + From This Day Forward + Eddie Deets
+ When: 6 pm (doors) | 7 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $20 advance (not including fees) | $25 day of show | Buy tickets here
More details: A massive show headlined by Vancouver's Opal In Sky, a modern metal band fronted by twin brothers. They're joined by a bunch of cool-looking bands including Nebraska's own From This Day Forward.
All ages show!
Wednesday, October 7
Outdoors: Music & Meadowlarks
+ When: 5 to 8 pm
+ Where: Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, 11700 SW 100th St, Denton, NE 68339 (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $40 for an individual ticket
More details: "Music & Meadowlarks will be a lovely night of music, food, & friends on the prairie featuring live music from Emily Bass & The Near Miracle, with an opening performance by Kellyn Wooten & Vince Learned."
A fundraiser for the Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center.
Thursday, October 8
Film: Paranormal Activity (2007)
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Thursday, October 8
Film: The Blair Witch Project (1999)
+ When: 8 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Thursday, October 8
Music: Messiahvore + Weaving Shadows + Sluground
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $15
More details: Powersludge band Messiahvore is visiting town from Denver. They'll be joined by local doom sludge bands Weaving Shadows and Sluground.
All ages show!
Friday, October 9
Film: The Fog (1980)
+ When: 7:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Friday, October 9
Film: The Blob (1988)
+ When: 9:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Friday, October 9
Market: Bugeaters Vintage Market
+ When: 2 to 7 pm
+ Where: Tower Square, 1300 P St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free but there will be items for sale!
More details: "Fall is here, and we’re bringing the best vintage with us. Join us Friday, October 9th for an incredible lineup of vintage vendors and 1,000s of handpicked pieces waiting to be taken home with you."
Friday, October 9
Poetry: Poetry Might Answer Our Storm
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Ellery, 1247 S 11th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Lincoln is welcoming KCMO's Brandon Kirk back for a poetry night including an open mic.
Saturday, October 10
Festival: Lincoln Nerd Fest 2026
+ When: 10 am to 6 pm
+ Where: Sandhills Global Event Center, 4100 N 84th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $5 for adults | Kids 12 and under are free
More details: Activities include: Lifesize Minecraft build zone, tournaments, vendor hall, video game lounge, cosplay, gaming zone and much more.
Continues on Sunday!
Saturday, October 10
Market: Community Free Market
+ When: 10 to 11:30 am
+ Where: Seng Park, 49th & Garland (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.
Sunday, October 11
Festival: Lincoln Nerd Fest 2026
+ When: 10 am to 4 pm
+ Where: Sandhills Global Event Center, 4100 N 84th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $5 for adults | Kids 12 and under are free
More details: Activities include: Lifesize Minecraft build zone, tournaments, vendor hall, video game lounge, cosplay, gaming zone and much more.
Sunday, October 11
Film: Nope (2022)
+ When: 6:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Things to do later this year:
Wednesday, October 14
Community: Free Name Change Clinic
+ When: Appointment times vary
+ Where: Downtown Lincoln
+ Cost: Free but registration required
More details: A clinic for LGBTQ+ Nebraskans, age 19 or older, who are residents of Lancaster County, organized by OutNebraska and the ACLU.
After filling about the form (linked above), the organizers will send a confirmation and a follow-up with your appointment time and the event venue in the next few weeks. The clinic includes meeting one-on-one with an attorney who will help with process, draft documents, and provide legal representation for notice of publication and name change hearing.
Monday, October 12
Film: Little Shop of Horrors (1960)
+ When: 5:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Monday, October 12
Film: House of Wax (1953)
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Tuesday, October 13
Film: The Haunting (1963)
+ When: 6:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Wednesday, October 14
Film: Eyes Without a Face (1960)
+ When: 5:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Wednesday, October 14
Film: Psycho (1960)
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Thursday, October 15
Film: The Shining (1980)
+ When: 6:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Thursday, October 15
Music: Social Cinema + Dog Party + Sweet Gloom
+ When: 8 pm (doors) | 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $3 minor charge
More details: Social Cinema returns for a show in Lincoln for the first time in a while! They'll be joined by Sacramento's Dog Party and LA's Sweet Gloom.
18+ show!
Friday, October 16
Film: Ringu (1998)
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Friday, October 16
Film: Pulse (2001)
+ When: 9:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Friday, October 16
Music: Car Bar + The Breakroom + Foxpelt
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: A cool rock show featuring Lincoln's Car Bar, The Breakroom, and emo group Foxpelt of Sioux City.
Saturday, October 17
Film: Hereditary (2018)
+ When: 6:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Saturday, October 17
Film: Cemetery Man (1994)
+ When: 9:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Saturday, October 17 - Sunday, October 18
Food: Here for the Food Festival - Taste of Lincoln 2026
+ When: 4 to 9 pm (Saturday) | noon to 5 pm (Sunday)
+ Where: 699 K St (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $21.72 for a single day GA | $37.25 for the weekend GA | More for VIP tickets
More details: Keenan Eats and Here for the Food are collaborating for a weekend of food trucks, local restaurants, drinks, music and more at the 2026 Taste of Lincoln.
Sunday, October 18
Film: Train to Busan (2016)
+ When: 7:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Sunday, October 18
Music: BlackStratTheory + Syinide + Boy Seeking Band
+ When: 5 pm (doors) | 5:30 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free or pay-what-you-can | $5 for minors
More details: An entirely local punk show! Featuring hardcore band Black Strat Theory, alt-rock trio Synide, and cool rocker Boy Seeking Band.
All ages show!
Sunday, October 18
Music: Liminal Space Lyrics Presents: Isiah Driessen + The Zooeys
+ When: 8 pm (doors) | 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $3 minor charge
More details: TBD
18+ show!
Tuesday, October 20
Books: An Evening with Bruce Holsinger (One Book Lincoln)
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Lincoln High School Auditorium, 2229 J St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: A live, in-person interview, Q&A session and book signing with the author of One Book Lincoln selection Culpability.
Wednesday, October 21
Film: Leviticus (2026)
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Wednesday, October 21
Film: It Follows (2014)
+ When: 8 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $1 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Wednesday, October 21
Music: Schaffer the Darklord + Coolzey + Leaves Brown
+ When: 8 pm (doors) | 9 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $3 minor charge
More details: Schaffer the Darklord, a New York City-based rapper, drummer and comedian, comes to town. With support from Iowa-based multi-genre act Coolzey and a local favorite of mine, Leaves Brown.
18+ show show!
Friday, October 23
Film: Let the Right One In (2008)
+ When: 6:45 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Friday, October 23
Film: A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014)
+ When: 9:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Friday, October 23
Music: Nightmare on 13th Street
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Rococo Theatre, 140 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $20 GA advance tickets | $22 day of show
More details: Featuring performances from Cheesy Bandito, Estrogen Projection and DJ Rugburn.
Saturday, October 24
Books: Spooky Book Fair
+ When: 10 am to noon
+ Where: Sower Books, 914 N 70th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free but there will be items available for purchase!
More details: Browse thrillers, horror books, and other good reads, and enjoy drinks from Alvin Coffee. This event is aimed at adults but Sower will also have children’s books available and a Halloween-themed crafting opportunity.
Saturday, October 24
Film: Weapons (2025)
+ When: 6:30 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Saturday, October 24
Film: The Wolf House (2018)
+ When: 9:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Sunday, October 25
Film: A Ghost Story (2017)
+ When: 5:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Sunday, October 25
Film: Clue (1985)
+ When: 7:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 for members | $5 for UNL students
More details: Part of Fright Fest 2026!
Sunday, October 25
Market: Made Here - Halloween Market
+ When: noon to 4 pm
+ Where: The green space outside Pepe's Bistro and inside The Ellery
+ Cost: Free, but there will be items available for purchase!
More details: Expect woodworkers, printmakers, jewelers, chefs, bakers, knitters, fiber artists, beaders, painters, ceramicists, and more!
Applications to the market will be accepted through Sunday, September 27. Apply here.
Thursday, October 29
Celebration: Lincoln Literacy’s 2026 Global Celebration
+ When: 5:30 to 8 pm
+ Where: The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, 333 S 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $75 | Buy tickets here
More details: "This year, Lincoln Literacy is celebrating student achievements, volunteer tutor dedication, and a record number of students served. Back by popular demand will be the Kokyo Taiko drum group! The Global Celebration will also feature a plated dinner and cash bar with table service provided by The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. If you plan to attend, please let the Lincoln Literacy team know about any dietary requirements you might have, and they will be happy to accommodate you."
Friday, October 30
Music: The Haunting of 1867
+ When: 9 pm to late
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $12 advance | $15 at the door | Buy tickets here
More details: Three bands are playing: Boy Seeking Band, The Breakroom and P.O.E. Show up in costume! There will be a contest with a $50 cash prize.
All ages!
Saturday, October 31
Music: Emo Night Halloween
+ When: 8 pm
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $15 | Buy tickets here
More details: 1867 will be spinning Emo hits and deep cuts all night. Come prepared for a costume contest, themed drinks and more!
All ages!
Friday, November 6
Music: Your Own Knife + Price of Humility + Black Strat + Empty Suits
+ When: 6 pm (doors)
+ Where: The Mudhole | DM them for the address
+ Cost: PWYC
More details: A big DIY punk show featuring Nebraska screamo Your Own Knife, screamocore Price of Humility, hardcore punk band from Lincoln Black Strat and local post-hardcore post-punk rockers Empty Suits.
All ages!
Saturday, November 21
Poetry: Tri-State Showdown
+ When: 11 am (workshop), noon (writing social), 2 pm (open mic), 6 pm (showdown slam)
+ Where: The Ellery, 1247 S 11th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Sliding scale entry fee ($5 to $20) | Buy tickets here
More details: An annual collaboration between the Nebraska, Missouri, and Iowa poetry scenes! It's an effort to build and uplift the tri-state area’s poetry community. All poets are welcome to join, and any poet living in Nebraska/Missouri/Iowa is welcome to sign up to compete.
Sunday, December 6
Market: Midwest Merry Market 2026
+ When: 10 am to 4 pm
+ Where: The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, 333 S 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Seems to be free, though there will be items for sale!
More details: "Kick off the holiday season in the most festive way at the Midwest Merry Market, a festive shopping event celebrating small businesses and holiday cheer! This event brings together a curated selection of makers, artisans, and small businesses offering unique gifts, handmade treasures, and seasonal must-haves."