What to do this weekend - September 17, 2026
I had to ask what GBR meant. How embarrassing.
Hi,
I have a confession.
After repeatedly complaining about football in this newsletter for the past year, I somehow — against my better judgement — found myself at a Huskers game on Saturday, watching them absolutely humiliate Bowling Green. The stadium was obscenely crowded and some asshole was mean to one of my friends for having the temerity to get up and move around during the game. But the ticket was free and the day was beautiful. So I guess I consider it a win.
I also had a Runza for the first time. I give it a 5/10. I was starving so that might've inflated the score. But it's still perhaps not the best dish on which to hang an entire state's culinary reputation.
This is my round-up of local events that goes out every Thursday morning. You can find the calendar below. Here's a link to submit events for future posts. I'm actively looking for stuff going on October and November — and tentatively for December.
Please consider becoming a financial supporter of the newsletter. It really does help. (You can also support me on Patreon or just leave a one-time tip.)
If you can't afford to pay for This Week In Lincoln, I understand! Just share it with your friends instead.
There's quite a few interesting art exhibits on display around town, and I wanted to flag one that's closing soon: Artist Madeline Cass has work currently on display at NWU's gallery. The exhibit is called "where dust devils dance" and is on view until Sept. 25.
Thanks for reading!
~ Ty
P.S. This Week In Lincoln is on Instagram so follow me there if you don't already. You can also send me stuff to write about (or just say hello): tynanstewart@proton.me
Thursday, September 17
Thursday, September 17
Art: How to Be a Guerrilla Girl
+ When: 5:30 to 7 pm
+ Where: Sheldon Museum of Art, 451 N 12th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Ever wondered how a group of anonymous, mask-wearing artists took on the sexism and racism of the art world? Join us ... as Dr. Zanna Gilbert, Senior Research Specialist at the Getty Research Institute, pulls back the curtain on 'How to Be a Guerrilla Girl'—her landmark exhibition on the anonymous feminist art collective's inner workings. Hear the story behind the story as Gilbert digs into the data research, protest actions, culture jamming, and grassroots strategies that made the masked collective impossible to ignore."
Thursday, September 17
Comedy: Whose Live Anyway?
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Lied Center, 301 N 12th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Tickets start at $69
More details: Ninety minutes of improv comedy and song all based on audience suggestions. Starring the current cast members of Whose Line Is It Anyway?
Thursday, September 17
Film: Granite Rapids Moon
+ When: 7:15 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | Half price for UNL students!
More details about the film: "Shot with only the equipment that a cast and crew of eight could carry on two 41-mile hikes (one in 20-degree December and the other in 95-degree June), this family-friendly romantic drama is the first narrative feature to shoot the majority of its footage inside the rim of the Grand Canyon. The movie contains no nudity, sex, guns, violence, drugs, tobacco, or strong profanity."
One night only screening!
Thursday, September 17
Film: So Surreal: Behind the Masks
+ 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] feature documentary that traces the storied journey of Indigenous masks from the far reaches of Turtle Island (North America) into the hands of European Surrealists, influencing the work and worldview of some of the most well-known modern artists and writers of all time including Max Ernst, André Breton, Roberto Matta and Joan Miró – all while following the dramatic quest to return a mask that was brutally stolen from the Kwakwa̱ka̱ ʼwakw people on Canada’s northwest coast over a century ago."
Last chance to see this at the Ross!
Thursday, September 17
Film: Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma
+ When: 5 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: "A new kind of horror remake from Jane Schoenbrun (I Saw the TV Glow), starring Hannah Einbinder and Gillian Anderson. After years of slapdash sequels and waning fandom, the Camp Miasma slasher franchise is handed over to an enthusiastic young director for resurrection. But when she visits the original movie’s star, a now-reclusive actress shrouded in mystery, the two women fall into a blood-soaked world of desire, fear, and delirium."
I reviewed this one a few days ago. Last chance to see it at the Ross!
Thursday, September 17
Music: Henri Herbert
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $15
More details: The touring boogie and rock n roll piano player comes to town!
Thursday, September 17
Music: Open Decks with DJ Rugburn
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover | $10 for under 21
More details: "Once every month or so, DJ Rugburn hosts an open decks night where DJ's of any experience level are invited to plug in their laptop and spin a set (approximately 30 minutes). Like a typical open mic night, just sign up and wait your turn! It's a great opportunity to dance to stuff you haven't heard or mingle with local DJ's. DM Rugburn on Instagram to sign up, or sign up at the bar!"
18+ show!
Thursday, September 17
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, September 17
Outdoors: Climate & Culture Conversations: Art Speaks
+ When: 6:30 to 8 pm
+ Where: Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, 11700 SW 100th St, Denton, NE 68339 (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join us for an evening stroll through the prairie while discussing climate art and then create your own artwork. All materials will be provided."
Thursday, September 17
Social: Nerd Nite
+ When: 7 pm
+ Where: Saro Cider, 1746 N St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover!
More details: I saw this described as a mix of TEDx Talk and powerpoint party. This month they are partnering with archeologists from Nebraska State Historical Society for three archeology themed presentations!
Thursday, September 17
Social: Weekly Leftist Meetup
+ When: 5 to 7 pm
+ Where: Code Beer Company, 200 S Antelope Valley Pkwy (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: If you're looking to find other progressive or left-leaning people, check out this weekly meetup. You can talk politics or just hang out. Organized by Lincoln's chapter of the DSA!
Friday, September 18
Friday, September 18
Music: Body Corrosion EP Release Show
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 9 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $5 minor fee
More details: This is gonna be a loud one. Come out and support Body Corrosion's release of their self-titled EP. They'll be joined by hardcore and metal bands FAHR, JIBLETS and Cold Glock.
18+ show!
Friday, September 18
Art: International Textiles Show-and-Tell
+ When: 5 to 7 pm
+ Where: International Quilt Museum, 1523 N. 33rd St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "As part of Lincoln Welcoming Week, this event celebrates the textiles and stories of Lincoln’s global community. Enjoy FREE admission, access to all IQM galleries and refreshments. We’ll also unveil the exhibition 'American Creativity Continued: 1870s to 1970s,' curated by students from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and Saitama University in Japan as part of a textile-focused museum exhibition course."
Friday, September 18
Books: Book Launch: EL GATO EN EL REMOLINO / ANIMAL SPIRAL
+ When: 5 pm
+ Where: Francie & Finch Bookshop, 130 S 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Luis Othoniel Rosa, associate professor in the Departments of English and Modern Languages and Literatures, celebrates the launch of his new novel, El Gato En El Remolino (Charco Press, 2026), and its English translation, Animal Spiral (Charco Press, 2026), translated by Katie Marya. Join Rosa at Francie & Finch Bookshop for a celebration of a book he wrote here in Lincoln with department colleagues."
Friday, September 18
Community: Lincoln Unites
+ When: 5:30 to 9 pm
+ Where: University Place Neighborhood, 48th St. & Paul Avenue (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Lincoln Unites is an annual festival that brings community members from all walks of life together who are proud that Lincoln is inclusive and welcoming to all of our neighbors, including immigrants and refugees. Celebrating new citizens and sharing art, music, and heritage of the many faces of Lincoln helps create one strong and vibrant community. Everyone is welcome!"
Friday, September 18
Fall: Applejack Festival
+ When: Starts at 9 am
+ Where: 2611 Arbor Ave, Nebraska City, NE 68410 (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Prices vary, but apple-picking tickets start at $16.55
More details: "Fall starts the moment you get here. When you grab your bag and pick apples. When you sip fresh cider and bite into a warm donut. When you hear the laughter and see the joy on your loved ones’ faces. It’s the tradition your family keeps coming back to."
Not in Lincoln, but it looks like fun! Continues on Saturday, Sunday and again next weekend.
Friday, September 18
Film: The Samurai and the Prisoner
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N 13th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $12 evening show | Half price for UNL students!
More details about the film: "When Lord Murashige (Masahiro Motoki) rises up against the tyrannical Oda (Bando Shingo), he finds himself besieged within the walls of his own castle. Isolated, he is confronted with a series of mysterious crimes that shatter the fragile order of his court, plunging the fortress into fear and suspicion." A new film from director Kiyoshi Kurosawa!
More showings through Thursday, September 24. No screenings on Saturday because of the (sigh) home football game.
Friday, September 18
Film: Tony
+ When: 5 pm | 7:15 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: Director Matt Johnson's new biopic of Anthony Bourdain, featuring Holdovers star Dominic Sessa as the titular character.
More showings through Thursday, October 1. No screenings on Saturday because of the home football game.
Friday, September 18
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. The last one of the season is happening October 16!
Friday, September 18
Music: AFROBADDIE + Jelani The Human
+ When: 9:30 pm
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover
21+ show!
Friday, September 18
Music: Gabe Nelson with Pants
+ When: 5 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: A local multi-genre band!
Friday, September 18
Music: Igor Dimitrienko Acoustic Solo Experience
+ When: 8 pm
+ Where: Gray’s Keg, 104 N 20th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Not sure if there's a cover
Friday, September 18
Music: The Pocket Architects
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: A young blues-funk quartet from the Omaha! Come out for some traditional blues roots with energetic funk grooves.
Friday, September 18
Plants: PlantNebraska Fall Plant Sale
+ When: 12:30 to 4:30 pm
+ Where: Nebraska Statewide Arboretum Greenhouse, 2150 N 38th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! But there will be plants for sale
More details: There will be natives and plants suited to Nebraska’s climate and growing conditions. Trees, shrubs, perennial flowers, grasses and herbs.
Friday, September 18
Poetry: Palabras Con Pan
+ When: 7 to 9 pm
+ Where: The Ellery, 1247 S 11th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free, but donations accepted
More details: An open mic night of spoken word. Featuring coffee from Meadowlark and pastries from Pan Dulche.
Friday, September 18
Theater: Dear World
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Annie L. McDonald Theatre, Nebraska Wesleyan (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $20
More details: "There's oil beneath this Paris bistro. And these rapacious corporate executives won't let a few artists, outcasts and madwomen impede their progress. But who's the true eccentric in this struggle between cultural preservation and corruption? Greed and desire go on trial underground in this poetic satire musical written by the same composer as Hello, Dolly! and Mame."
More showings September 19-20.
Saturday, September 19
Saturday, September 19
FlatFest: Raygun Popup Shop
+ When: 2 to 4 pm
+ Where: Raygun, 1219 P St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free with items available to purchase!
More details: Come out and get some brand new Flatwater Free Press merch. It's a chance to celebrate the newsroom's fifth anniversary with some fresh designs and to meet their Lincoln reporters.
Saturday, September 19
Books: Sci-Fi Book Swap
+ When: 11 am to 4 pm
+ Where: Sower Books, 914 N 70th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join us for a book swap just for sci-fi fans, bring books, take books, find your new adventure. If you can't make it but have books you can bring them by anytime during business hours, we just ask that they come from a smoke-free home. You do not have to bring books to participate!"
There will also be a Fermentally Ill Sourdough pop-up starting at 10:30 am.
Saturday, September 19
Community: All Hands Community Canvass - Clinton Neighborhood
+ When: 1 to 4 pm
+ Where: ZIP 68521 (Sign up here to get the exact location)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Join the Lincoln GOTV Coalition leading an all hands community canvass. Here, we will educate our neighbors in Clinton about what's at stake in this 2026 General Election and Get Out The Vote! Everyone is welcomed. No experience is needed."
Organized by Nebraska Table.
Saturday, September 19
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!
Please note the new location!
Saturday, September 19
Community: Lincoln Alliance Meeting
+ When: 10:30 am to 12:15 pm
+ Where: Gere Branch Library Room, 2400 S 56th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "The Lincoln Alliance will be having it's next meeting on September 19th. The topics of discussion will center around Trees for Neighborhoods, including logistical information, a walkthrough of the Trees 4 Town program, and planning for continuous tree planting."
Saturday, September 19
Improv: Movement improv
+ When: 2 to 4 pm
+ Where: F Street Community Center, 1225 F St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: "Move your bod; playful; low-stakes. No experience necessary. All bodies and ages welcome. Masks encouraged and provided."
Saturday, September 19
Market: Falling Leaves Vendor Fair
+ When: 10 am to 3 pm
+ Where: Sandhills Global Event Center, 4100 N 84th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Items available to purchase!
More details: "Celebrate the season at the Falling Leaves Craft & Vendor Fair, a free community event perfect for a fall day out. Stroll through aisles of unique handmade crafts, home décor, boutique items, and specialty goods from a wide variety of talented vendors."
Saturday, September 19
Music: Cuddlebone Album Release Show
+ When: 7 pm (doors), 8 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $18.48 (including fees) | Buy tickets here | $2 Under 21 fee at the door
More details: Local prog rock band Cuddlebone is celebrating the release of a new album! With support from Turquoise, Pure Brown and Within Wilds.
All ages show!
Saturday, September 19
Music: Space to Play + Lonely Winters
+ When: 9 pm (doors), 10 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: Come out for a late night experience of genre-bending musical exploration! Featuring Omaha's Space to Play and Lonely Winters.
18+ show!
Sunday, September 20
Sunday, September 20
Poetry: Family Day: Ekphrastic Poetry with Matt Mason
+ When: 2 to 4 pm
+ Where: Sheldon Museum of Art, 12th and R St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! Registration encouraged.
More details: "Bring the whole family to Sheldon for a day of art, words, and creativity with former State Poet of Nebraska Matt Mason. Inspired by Grace Hartigan: The Gift of Attention, Mason will lead interactive poetry activities that transform looking into writing. Families can also enjoy free snacks, art making activities, and other hands-on experiences throughout the museum."
Sunday, September 20
Community: Freedom Fall: Prepare resource kits for leafletting
+ When: 1 to 3 pm
+ Where: Gere Library, 2400 South 56th St. (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."
Sunday, September 20
FlatFest: Community Conversations: Flatwater Forum
+ When: 5 pm (doors), 5:30 pm (start)
+ Where: Morrill Hall (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free! Registration required
More details: Join Flatwater staff for an evening of panel discussions, featuring UNL alumna and current senior editor at the Atlantic Jenna Johnson; Leah Wambui Keinama, Director of Civic Journalism at Nebraska Journalism Trust; and Flatwater’s own Yanqi Xu.
Note the new location (the event is no longer taking place at the Sheldon).
Sunday, September 20
Music: Sam Morrow
+ When: 5 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $15 advance | $18 day of show | Buy tickets here
More details: A night of raw, Texas-bred southern rock from Nashville's Sam Morrow.
Sunday, September 20
Theater: Dear World
+ When: 2 pm
+ Where: Annie L McDonald Theatre, Elder Theatre Center, 5100 Huntington Ave. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $21.45 (including fees)
More details: "There’s oil beneath this Paris bistro. And these rapacious corporate executives won’t let a few artists, outcasts and madwomen impede their progress. But who’s the true eccentric in this struggle between cultural preservation and corruption? Greed and desire go on trial underground in this poetic satire musical written by the same composer as Hello, Dolly! and Mame."
Things to do next week:
Tuesday, September 22
FlatFest: Nebraska trivia night with the Flatwater Free Press
+ When: 6 to 8 pm
+ Where: HopCat, 601 P St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Join Flatwater Free Press reporters and editors who will ask you questions about Nebraska news, history, sports and more. Some answers come from Flatwater reporting so read their recent stories for a better chance to win prizes including: free tickets to FlatFest, gift cards to The Mill and a book basket from Francie & Finch!
Monday, September 21
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, September 21
Music: Love Cuts + Disrepair + Black Strat Theory
+ When: 8 pm (show)
+ Where: 1867 Bar, 101 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: Fort Worth's Love Cuts is coming to town with support from local punks Black Strat Theory and Disrepair.
All ages show!
Monday, September 21
Music: Monthly Bluegrass Jam
+ When: 7:30 to 9:30 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover
More details: All pickers welcome. Unplugged.
Monday, September 21
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, September 22
Books: From Many Places, One Lincoln
+ When: 6 to 8 pm
+ Where: International Quilt Museum, 1523 N. 33rd St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free and open to the public!
More details: "Join us for a community celebration and launch of the book The Lives of Immigrants & Refugees: Tales of Migration, Hope, Grief, and Finding Home in Nebraska. Celebrate the voices and experiences of immigrants and refugees who call Lincoln home. Hear directly from contributors to this powerful collection of personal stories, connect with fellow Lincolnites, and help celebrate the rich tapestry of our community."
Part of Lincoln Welcoming Week 2026!
Tuesday, September 22
Music: Wingra Wind Quintet
+ When: 7:30 pm
+ Where: Lied Center - Carson Theater, 301 N 12th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $41 for regular tickets | $10 for students | Buy tickets here
More details: Presented by the Lincoln Friends of Chamber Music!
Tuesday, September 22
Politics: State Senator Candidate Forum
+ When: 6:30 pm
+ Where: Unitarian Church of Lincoln, 6300 A St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Come out and hear from local candidates for the Unicameral. Candidates who are confirmed to appear at the forum:
+ Caitlin Knutson (D2)
+ George Dungan (D26)
+ Patty Pansing Brooks (D28)
+ Colby L. Woodson (D28)
+ Janet M. Bock (D30)
+ Cally Ideus (D30)
+ Shay Smith (D32)
Organized by the League of Women Voters of Lincoln-Lancaster County.
Tuesday, September 22
Public Meeting: Lincoln Board of Education
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: Boardroom of the Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O 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, September 23
FlatFest: 2026 Flatwater Free Press Festival
+ When: 5 to 8 pm
+ Where: Roca Berry Farm, 16531 S. 38th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $150 | Buy tickets here
More details: There will be food, drinks, music, merriment, a September Nebraska sunset and chances to chat with FFP journalists. There will also be a conversation between featured guest George Packer of The Atlantic and Flatwater editor Matthew Hansen. Come celebrate the FFP's 5th birthday!
Wednesday, September 23
Music: Quinn Sullivan
+ When: 6 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $20 advance | $25 day of show | Buy tickets here
More details: A musician known for blending blues, rock, and classic influences.
Wednesday, September 23
Politics: Lancaster County Candidate Forum
+ When: 6:30 pm
+ Where: Unitarian Church of Lincoln, 6300 A St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Come out and hear from local candidates for Lancaster County Sheriff, Lancaster County Attorney, and District 3 Lancaster County Commissioner. Candidates who are confirmed to appear at the forum:
+ Sheriff: Ben T. Houchin (R), Jay Pitts (D)
+ County Attorney: Pat Condon (R), Randall Ritnour (D)
+ District 3 County Commissioner: Matt Schulte (R), Bryan Seck (NP)
Organized by the League of Women Voters of Lincoln-Lancaster County.
Thursday, September 24
Fundraiser: Neighbors Not Strangers (Center for Legal Immigration Assistance)
+ When: 5:30 to 7:30 pm
+ Where: Lux Center, 2601 North 48th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $40 | Buy tickets here
More details: "Enjoy cultural food tasting, immigrant success stories, and a silent auction with items from local businesses. All funds raised will help ensure CLIA can continue serving 8/10 of clients pro-bono, especially during the holiday season and increasing need for our services. Tickets Include: Food and one raffle ticket for a chance to win a mystery prize! Cash bar also available."
Thursday, September 24
Music: College Night: Southwind + Infielder + Joyrager
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover | $10 for under 21
More details: Southwind, an outlaw y'all-ternative band from Kansas, is coming to town. With support from Omaha's Infielder and local fave Joyrager.
18+ show!
Thursday, September 24
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, September 24
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.
Thursday, September 24 - Saturday, September 26
Sale: Mountain clothing sale
+ When: 1 to 8 pm
+ Where: Kaptains Port, 1301 S 11th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Fill a bag for $5
More details: The Everett vintage store is hosting its annual mountain sale, which is what it sounds like: A huge pile of vintage clothes and accessories. It's a fun free-for-all.
Friday, September 25
Dance Party: Plack Blague DJ Set
+ When: 8 pm
+ Where: DAME, 2713 N 48th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $5
More details: "Come join us in celebrating two great years of @dame.lincoln.official as we close out an end of an era with an all night dance party Plack Blague dj set plus a @butchdickart pop up shop of shirts, original artwork, prints and more! Unfortunately Dame will be closing their doors for good on the 26th so we want to make this a very special night and hope to see you there!!"
21+ show
Friday, September 25 - Sunday, September 27
Film: Flatwater Film Festival
+ When: Various times | Find the schedule here
+ Where: Rivoli Theatre in downtown Seward (Google Maps)
+ Cost: GA Standard Weekend Pass: $8 | GA Senior/Student Weekend Pass: $5 | Buy tickets here
More details: "The Flatwater Film Festival is an annual event committed to bringing together established and first-time filmmakers from across the state of Nebraska to celebrate their art."
Friday, September 25
Music: Dean Dalton EP Release Show w/ Happy John + Ella Dibbern
+ When: 8 pm
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover
More details: Dean Dalton is releasing a new EP, One Track Mind. With support from Happy John and local singer-songwriter Ella Dibbern.
21+ show!
Friday, September 25
Music: Big Sandy and his Fly-Rite Boys
+ When: 5 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $16 advance | $20 day of show
More details: Hailing from SoCal, this Americana/roots act is coming to the Zoo Bar.
Friday, September 25
Music: Hub & Soul Music Series 2026
+ When: 6 to 9 pm
+ Where: Union Plaza Amphitheater, N 21st St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: It's a free community event for people of all ages and backgrounds. Come out and celebrate music, local food, and Lincoln’s parks!
Friday, September 25
Music: Violenteer + Domestica + The Fatal E's
+ When: 9 pm
+ Where: The Zoo Bar, 136 N 14th St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10
More details: Dark and moody rockers Violenteer are in town from Omaha. Joined by Lincoln living legends Domestica and noise rockers The Fatal E's. Show up for this, it promises to be a great night!
Saturday, September 26
Celebration: Harvest Moon Festival
+ When: 4 to 7 pm
+ Where: Antelope Park, Shildneck Bandshell (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: The Asian Community center is organizing this family-friendly event. Come out and enjoy a bunch of cultural performances, music, food, and activities.
Saturday, September 26
Music: Nicki Walters + MCM Max + teeth4teeth
+ When: 10 pm
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: No cover
More details: Denver based Nicki Walters blends singer-songwriter folk ballads with electronic and alternative sounds. They'll be playing alongside Omaha's indie group MCM Max and Lincoln's teeth4teeth (an outgrowth of local stalwarts Birthday Girl). This promises to be a really cool show!
21+ show!
Saturday, September 26
Organizing: Lincoln Tenants United
+ When: 11 am to 12:30 pm
+ Where: Bennett Martin Library, 4th Floor (Google Maps)
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Come out and learn more about what Lincoln Tenants United is, how you can get involved and more. Come around 11 for some socializing. Things will officially start around 11:30, and they'll get into bargaining training starting at noon.
Sunday, September 27
Art: Porch-Art-Palooza 2026!
+ When: 1 to 6 pm
+ Where: Everett and Near South neighborhoods
+ Cost: Free!
More details: Featuring 82 artists and 36 porches across the two neighborhoods. Maps and art passports will be available soon.
Sunday, September 27
Music: PB&TAT + Boy Seeking Band + Not Ben Shin + KJ Teder
+ When: 8 pm (doors), 8:30 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $7 | $3 charge for minors
More details: PB&TAT is bringing their Midwest wank folk from KC. They'll be joined by locals Boy Seeking Band, KJ Teder, and Not Ben Shin.
18+ show!
Things to do later this year:
Monday, September 28
Music: Safekeeper + Dirty Talker + P.O.E
+ When: 6 pm (doors), 6:30 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $7 | $3 minor charge
More details: Colorado-based slacker rock group Safekeeper is visiting Lincoln, where the band has some roots. They'll be joined by locals Dirty Talker and P.O.E.
All ages show!
Tuesday, September 29
Music: Jojomber + JACK + Tag Along
+ When: 6 pm (doors), 6:30 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $10 | $3 charge for minors
More details: New York songwriter Jojomber is bringing his moody, lyrical music to Lincoln alongside Omaha rocker JACK and indie quartet Tag Along.
All ages show!
Wednesday, September 30
Music: Battle of the Bands
+ When: 8 pm (show)
+ Where: Bourbon Theatre, 1415 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost:
More details: Multiple local bands that include UNL students will compete to be declared the night's champion!
Part of UNL Homecoming.
Wednesday, September 30
Music: Plastic Mystic + The Obscurants + BareBear
+ When: 7 pm (doors), 8 pm (show)
+ Where: Duffy's Tavern, 1412 O St. (Google Maps)
+ Cost: $5 | $2 charge for minors
More details: Denver garage rock trio Plastic Mystic released their self-titled LP earlier this year, and now they're visiting Lincoln. Plus local support from indie/emo ensemble The Obscurants and Omaha songwriter BareBear.
18+ show!
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!
Friday, October 2
Music: 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).
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
18 show!
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
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.
Saturday, October 10 - Sunday, October 11
Festival: Lincoln Nerd Fest 2026
+ When: 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.
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.
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!
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
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!
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
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.
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."
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."