With summer in full swing, July in Omaha is packed with exciting events for every interest and age group! From outdoor concerts and patriotic celebrations to art exhibitions, live performances, family festivals, and community markets, the Omaha area offers countless ways to enjoy the season. Whether you’re looking for a lively night out, a fun family activity, or a chance to explore local arts and culture, something is happening all month long across the metro. Here are some of the top July events in Omaha and the surrounding communities.
Jessie Henson: Everything Comes Next
Where? Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St, Omaha
When? February 14th–July 5th, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Art lovers can experience the intricate and innovative work of Jessie Henson during Jessie Henson: Everything Comes Next at Joslyn Art Museum, on view from February 14th through July 5th in the Scott Pavilion’s Riley CAP Gallery. Free to attend, this captivating exhibition showcases Henson’s unique approach to embroidery-inspired contemporary art, blending traditional craftsmanship with postwar American abstraction. Using industrial sewing machines and delicate polyester and nylon thread, Henson repeatedly stitches onto paper until the accumulating tension warps, creases, and tears the surfaces, transforming each piece into a richly textured, visually dynamic work of art. Several pieces are enhanced with shimmering gold leaf that catches the light, adding an opulent, jewel-like quality to the exhibition. Visitors will also find small bronze casts created from found embroideries alongside vibrant sewn paper works and a striking new multi-component installation that turns an entire gallery wall into a flowing, sculptural landscape. Thought-provoking and visually stunning, Everything Comes Next offers a fascinating exploration of texture, labor, material, and transformation within contemporary art.
Outdoor Concerts at the Oasis
Where? Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St, Omaha
When? July 1st, July 15th, & July 29th, 6–8 p.m.
At the beautiful Lauritzen Gardens, summer evenings get even better with Outdoor Concerts at the Oasis, a seasonal live music series sponsored by NP Dodge Company, including NP Dodge Real Estate. Taking place on Wednesday, July 1st, 15th, and 29th from 6–8 p.m., these family-friendly concerts invite guests to relax among vibrant blooms, winding garden paths, and the stunning new Quinn Oasis and Amphitheater while enjoying live entertainment in a truly unique outdoor setting. The July lineup includes a Tribute to Jimmy Buffett on July 1st, Love Town on July 15th, and Taxi Driver on July 29th, offering everything from laid-back island-inspired tunes to energetic crowd favorites. Part of a larger concert series running from April 29th through October 21st, Outdoor Concerts at the Oasis combines music, nature, and community for one of the Omaha area’s most memorable summer experiences. Guests can purchase tickets at member and non-member rates, and in the event of inclement weather, concerts may be canceled or rescheduled with refunds provided.
Ralston Independence Day Celebration
Where? Venues at The Granary, 5555 Granary Plaza Suite 101, Ralston
When? July 3rd & 4th
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday at the 66th Annual Ralston Independence Day Celebration, a beloved two-day tradition filled with patriotic fun, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities throughout Ralston. Taking place Friday, July 3rd, and Saturday, July 4th at venues throughout the community, including The Granary, the celebration features everything from a Family Street Dance and Picnic on the Green to the 21+ Lemon Fresh Days Concert at Granary Green. One of the biggest highlights arrives on July 3rd with a fireworks show at Liberty First Credit Union Arena, lighting up the sky in honor of Independence Day. On July 4th, the festivities continue with an Optimist Fun Run/Walk, a charming Children’s Parade, the LaDonna Johnson Fountain Dedication, and the community’s signature parade through Ralston beginning at 1 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy the After Parade Cool Down Party at Granary Green, making this longtime celebration one of the Omaha area’s most exciting and patriotic holiday traditions.
Derek Hough – Symphony of Dance: Encore
Where? Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St, Omaha
When? July 8th, 7 p.m.
Dance fans won’t want to miss Derek Hough as he brings his spectacular Symphony of Dance: Encore tour to Orpheum Theater on Wednesday, July 8th at 7 p.m. Returning to the stage by popular demand ahead of the 20th anniversary season of “Dancing with the Stars,” the six-time Mirrorball Trophy champion and four-time Emmy Award winner promises an unforgettable evening filled with fresh choreography, stunning production design, and his signature charisma. Symphony of Dance: Encore blends ballroom, tap, salsa, hip-hop, and contemporary styles into one high-energy performance, backed by a live band and an incredibly talented cast. Creative directors and choreographers Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo, also known as NappyTabs, return to help bring the dazzling production to life following the success of Hough’s previous tour. Known for his electrifying stage presence and impressive career spanning television, theater, and film, Derek Hough delivers a performance that combines technical brilliance with emotional storytelling, making this one of Omaha’s most exciting live entertainment events of the summer. To purchase tickets, please click here.
Omaha Gaming Convention
Where? EVEN Hotel Omaha Downtown – Old Market by IHG, 2220 Farnam St, Omaha
When? July 10th–12th
Whether you’re a longtime tabletop enthusiast or completely new to the hobby, the Omaha Gaming Convention offers a welcoming weekend packed with strategy, creativity, and community. Taking place July 10th–12th at EVEN Hotel Omaha Downtown – Old Market by IHG, this growing convention brings together gamers of all ages for three days of board game fun in an inclusive, family-friendly environment. Guests can explore an enormous library featuring more than 1,500 games ranging from quick party favorites to complex strategy titles, all provided by The Board Game Wagon. Attendees can also participate in the popular Play-to-Win program for a chance to take home free games after trying featured titles throughout the weekend. Created through a collaboration between Our Family Plays Games and The Board Game Wagon, the convention is designed to celebrate Omaha’s vibrant gaming community while creating a safe and welcoming space where everyone can play, learn, and belong. Along with open gaming opportunities, visitors can meet vendors, special guests, and fellow hobbyists while discovering new favorite games and connecting with the growing Midwest tabletop scene. Please click here to buy badges.
Heartland Pride
Where? Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St, Omaha
& Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement, 1115 Dodge St, Omaha
When? July 17th & 18th
Celebrate love, identity, and community at Heartland Pride, a vibrant two-day event that brings thousands together in downtown Omaha on Friday, July 17th, and Saturday, July 18th. This expanded celebration takes place at both the Holland Performing Arts Center and the Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement, in partnership with Omaha Performing Arts, creating an exciting new home for one of the region’s most meaningful annual events. Heartland Youth Pride kicks off the weekend on July 17th with live entertainment, interactive activities, youth-focused resources, vendor fairs, and welcoming spaces designed especially for LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. On July 18th, the celebration continues with the Heartland Pride Parade through downtown Omaha, where colorful floats, performers, local organizations, and supporters fill the streets in a joyful display of unity and visibility. Festival activities throughout the day include local entertainment, community organizations, and interactive experiences, while the evening culminates in a high-energy pride celebration featuring local performers and national headliners. Heartland Pride continues to grow into one of Omaha’s most powerful and inclusive celebrations, creating a space where everyone can feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
Free Sundae Sunday at The Durham Museum
Where? The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St, Omaha
When? July 19th, 12–4 p.m.
Treat yourself to a sweet summer tradition during Free Sundae Sunday at The Durham Museum on Sunday, July 19th, from 12–4 p.m. Held in celebration of National Ice Cream Day, this family-friendly event combines delicious nostalgia with one of Omaha’s most beloved historic attractions. Visitors can enjoy a free one-scoop ice cream sundae served from the museum’s beautifully restored 1931 Soda Fountain while exploring interactive activities, lively programming, and guided tours throughout the afternoon. Housed inside Omaha’s historic Union Station, The Durham Museum offers a fascinating look at the region’s history, making this event a perfect mix of education and summertime fun for guests of all ages. Regular museum admission applies, with discounted rates for seniors, military members, veterans, and children, and children ages 2 and under receive free admission. To book your tickets in advance, please click here.
BuckCherry at Barnato
Where? Located in Village Pointe at Barnato, 225 N 170th St Suite 95, Omaha
When? July 22nd. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Hard rock fans can turn up the volume when Buckcherry takes the stage at Barnato in Village Pointe on Wednesday, July 22nd. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the band hitting the stage at 8 p.m. for a night packed with gritty vocals, razor-sharp guitar riffs, and the unapologetic rock energy that has made Buckcherry a longtime favorite among hard rock fans. Known for hits like “Sorry” and “Lit Up,” the band continues to bring high-octane performances to audiences more than two decades into their career. Concertgoers can also expect music from the group’s 11th studio album, Roar Like Thunder, which the band describes as “pure, uncut rock” for fans craving classic hard-driving sound. Released in 2025, the album continues Buckcherry’s signature blend of swaggering rock anthems and powerhouse hooks while supporting an ongoing national tour. With Barnato’s intimate live music atmosphere and Buckcherry’s explosive stage presence, this promises to be one of Omaha’s loudest and most energetic summer concerts. Please buy your tickets here.
Don’t Stop Me Now! A Celebration of Rock Musicals
Where? SumTur Amphitheater, 11691 S 108th St, Papillion
When? July 23rd & 30th, 8 p.m.
Broadway and rock ‘n’ roll collide during Don’t Stop Me Now! A Celebration of Rock Musicals at SumTur Amphitheater on Thursday, July 23rd and 30th at 8 p.m. Presented by Rave On Productions, this electrifying outdoor concert experience brings some of musical theater’s most iconic rock-inspired songs to life with soaring vocals, a powerhouse live band, and nonstop energy under the summer sky. Audiences can expect unforgettable hits from beloved productions, including “Hair,” “Rent,” “Hamilton,” “Mamma Mia!,” and “Jagged Little Pill,” all woven into a high-energy tribute celebrating the rebellious spirit and emotional storytelling of rock musicals through the decades. Featuring talented vocalists Brian Eckleberry, Erika Hall Sieff, Ryan McGuigan, and Natalie Hughes alongside an accomplished live band, the show delivers a theatrical concert packed with passion, nostalgia, and crowd-pleasing anthems. With general admission stadium and lawn seating available, plus free admission for children ages 5 and under, this all-ages performance offers a fun summer night out for music lovers and Broadway fans alike. Please click on the event link above to purchase tickets, and use the code NPDODGE at checkout for a $5 discount.
Omaha’s Original Night Market
Where? Turner Park at Midtown Crossing, 3110 Farnam St, Omaha
When? July 31st, 6–10 p.m.
Spend a summer evening soaking up local flavor, live entertainment, and community spirit at Omaha’s Original Night Market on Friday, July 31st, from 6–10 p.m. at Turner Park at Midtown Crossing. Presented by Veridian Credit Union, this free, family-friendly, and dog-friendly event transforms Midtown into a lively open-air celebration filled with music, art, food, and fun. Guests can browse more than 50 local vendors, artists, boutiques, and makers while enjoying performances from talented local musicians, including BluesEd, Omaha Street Percussion, Chad Lee, The Pinheads, and more. Interactive lawn games and activities such as cornhole, giant Connect 4, GlowGa, stilt walkers, and a life-size coloring book keep the energy going throughout the evening. At the same time, the Nebraska Humane Society brings adoptable dogs for visitors hoping to meet a new furry friend. Located in the heart of Midtown Crossing, the market is also steps away from locally owned restaurants and patio dining, making it easy to turn the event into a full night out. Omaha’s Original Night Market takes place on the last Friday of every month from May through August, making it one of the city’s favorite recurring summer traditions.
Happy July, Omaha!
With outdoor concerts, community celebrations, live performances, festivals, art exhibits, and family-friendly fun happening all month long, July is one of the best times to explore everything Omaha and the surrounding communities have to offer! Whether you’re spending an evening at a concert under the stars, celebrating Independence Day, discovering local artists and makers, or making memories with family and friends, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the summer season. Be sure to mark your calendar, support local events and organizations, and make the most of all the excitement happening around Omaha this July!