Experience the Vibrant Summer in Omaha, Nebraska

As the sun extends its warm embrace over the heart of the Midwest, Omaha, Nebraska, comes alive with an array of activities that cater to every taste and preference. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Omaha offers something special for everyone to enjoy during the summer months.

Exploring Nature’s Bounty:
Omaha boasts an abundance of natural beauty waiting to be explored. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the scenic trails of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which spans across the Missouri River and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. For a serene retreat, head to Lauritzen Gardens, where you can immerse yourself in colorful botanical displays and tranquil landscapes.

Immersing in Arts and Culture:
Art aficionados will find solace in Omaha’s thriving cultural scene. The Joslyn Art Museum showcases an impressive collection of European and American masterpieces, while the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts presents cutting-edge works by emerging artists from around the world. Don’t miss the chance to catch a live performance at the renowned Orpheum Theater or Holland Performing Arts Center, where Broadway shows, concerts, and ballets grace the stage throughout the summer.

Indulging in Culinary Delights:
Omaha’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious. From farm-to-table eateries serving up fresh, locally sourced ingredients to iconic steakhouses offering mouthwatering cuts of meat, there’s no shortage of gastronomic delights to savor. Be sure to sample Omaha’s signature dish, the Reuben sandwich, at one of the city’s many acclaimed delis, and wash it down with a cold craft beer from one of the burgeoning local breweries.

Family-Friendly Fun:
Summer in Omaha is the perfect time for family bonding and creating lasting memories. Cool off from the heat at Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides, where thrilling water slides and exhilarating attractions provide endless entertainment for all ages. Animal lovers won’t want to miss a visit to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, home to thousands of fascinating creatures from around the globe, including the world’s largest indoor desert and nocturnal exhibits.

Festival Frenzy:
From lively music festivals to vibrant cultural celebrations, Omaha hosts an array of events that capture the spirit of summer. Dance the night away at the Omaha Summer Arts Festival, where local artists showcase their talents against the backdrop of live music and delicious food vendors. Experience the rich heritage of the city at the Omaha Summer Greek Festival, where traditional dances, authentic cuisine, and lively entertainment transport you to the shores of Greece.

In conclusion, Omaha, Nebraska, offers an eclectic mix of attractions and activities that promise to make this summer an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply looking to unwind and indulge, Omaha has something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, embrace the warmth of the season, and embark on a summer journey filled with endless possibilities in the heart of the Midwest.
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September Fest Omaha Nebraska 202

September Fest has been a tradition for over 40 years and offers family friendly entertainment as well as music, a labor day parade, and more. Over 20,000 people visit this festival every year and double that attend the parade. People travel from neighboring states to be a part of the festivities. September Fest is a hotspot for vendors, food, and entertainment as well as other exciting attractions. Cost of admission at the gate is seven dollars and is free for those five and under. September Fest begins September second and continues until September eleventh at ten that night.

There are ten bands performing at September fest this year. Sunday Crimson Driver will be opening at five pm followed by School of Rock and Nebraska Showdown. Finally Joystick and Midnight Ecstatic will be ending the night around midnight. Monday Crazeez’s on the Block will be starting us off at twelve thirty in the afternoon followed by Sinners and Saint and Beautiful Six, ending the night with Red Hot and Shoot to thrill. Monday the bands end at eight pm. 

There will be circus acts performed by Omaha Circus Arts and they offer a wide range of professional performances to modern LED glows, fire and thrills that only skilled showmen can perform. They will display incredible martial arts and fire routines and amazing talents within their show. Be ready to be dazzled and amazed by this wonderful group. They love to keep their audience on their toes. 

As well as entertainment there is an array of international food booths available at the festival including lobster, funnel cakes, snow cones, pork belly, turkey legs and more. 

Here is a list of all of our venders as well as what they serve:

AG&G CONCESSIONS – FUNNEL CAKES, FRIED OREOS, SNOW CONES

WILBY’S COMFORT – FRIED LOBSTER, FRIED SHRIMP, WINGS, FRIES, CATFISH, CORN

LINDA’S LEMONADE – LEMONADE, NACHOS, POP

DIPPIN DOTS – SMALL, MEDIUM AND LARGE – ICE CREAM

WAYNE’S NEW SKOO BBQ – PORK, CHICKEN, BRISKET, NACHOS, FRIES

PIM’S THAI FOOD TRUCK – PAD THA CHICKEN, CRISPY CHICKEN, FRIED RICE, SPRING ROLLS

SPICE YOUR LIFE   RUB YOUR MEAT – PORK BELLY SLIDERS, WONTON CUPS, PULLED PORK

KONA ICE –  MIXED ICE DRINKS

HUDSON´S MINI DONUTS – MINI DONUTS

J´S SMOKE HOUSE – TURKEY LEGS

Of course any good festival needs rides and a ferris wheel and Septemberfest has it all.  From kiddie rides to rides for those who want to get their hearts pumping and adrenaline going Septemberfest has you covered. We have rides such as the Typhoon, Starship, Speedway and many more for you to explore. Just don’t forget to get enough tickets to ride them all twice! This is a weekend full of events you don’t want to miss. 

Finally the parade begins in downtown Omaha on Monday September fifth at ten in the morning and continues down Capital Avenue until it turns left at 16th street and ends after four blocks. We look forward to seeing you this weekend at our wonderful September fest this year after two years of pandemic craziness.

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September Fest Omaha 2017

A salute to labor

Dates: Friday September 1st 2017 – Monday, September 4th, 2017

Omaha’s SeptemberFest has been around since 1977, offering four days of unbridled entertainment, artistic displays, educational opportunities, and one of the largest parade in the City. The festival starts Friday and runs through four days on the Labor Day weekend. This event, essentially a salute to labor, has a touch of family in it. There are musical acts in the beer garden, entertainment for kids in the Kiddie Kingdom, and a giant carnival that will bring all members of the family together for some once-a-year fun.

What’s more? September Fest is a hotspot for art, crafts, food, and other special attractions. You just have to look and you’ll most definitely find something befitting of your taste. This event is not a one-state affair. Visitors come from within Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Kansa, and South Dakota. September Fest programming attracts people of diverse age, who can take a bus ride or an auto tour to the city. Proceeds from SeptemberFest are directed to community improvement projects, and the event has already won a number of awards.

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Ode to Omaha

Omaha is said to be the heart of the Midwest, and rightly so. If you appreciate the heartland of America, you are going to adore your stay in the beautiful city of Omaha. Set in the heart of the Midwest, the largest city in Nebraska, Omaha is more than just a transportation capital. If you think of Omaha, you would likely be thinking of cattle ranches, cornfield, wide open spaces etc. The city offers you all this and much more.

Often overlooked as a travel destination, there is a wide range of things people can do to spice up their stay in this quaint little city. When one thinks of Omaha, one is likely to think of cornfields, cattle ranches and wide open spaces.

ART AND CULTURE

Omaha has a budding art scene and more than a couple of cultural events that are worth checking out. Heavily featured in the art scene are the Holland Performing Arts Center, the Joselyn Art Museum, the Orpheum Theater, the Rose Theater, the Apollon and the Ballet Nebraska.

The Holland Performing Arts Center is a magnificent space and plays host to many acclaimed performing artists. Constantly offering some of the finest ensembles and choice performances in the country, The Holland Center is controlled by Omaha Performing Arts and has been widely received and praised by its patrons.

The Joselyn Art Museum has been the center of the art scene in Omaha since 80 years. The museum features works from various periods in history, with special collections from the 19th and 20th century European and American art. One of the defining attractions of the Joselyn Art Museum is the Discovery Garden which displays 20 artworks out under the open sky. Major special exhibitions are offered temporarily every year. The Mind’s Eye Gallery features work from children’s book illustrators; quite popular among the young visitors.

ATTRACTIONS

If you’re in town with your family, there’s no chance of your getting bored, thanks to a wide range of fun parks and resorts. Some of the key attractions include SkateDaze, Fun-Plex, the Amazing Pizza Machine, Boys Town, CoCo Key Water Resort, Omaha Children’s Museum, The V, Family Fun Center, Ruth Sokolof Theater.

Roller skating at SkateDaze is all around fun family experience. Available for children’s birthday parties, they have a full concession and dining area serving up good cheap fast food. Other fun activities involve Bumper Cars, a roller coaster, Laser Tag and of course arcade games.

Fun-Plex is one of the largest waterparks in the country. Plan a whole day of fun getting splashed and sprayed in the Makana Splash, Typhoon Falls, Motion Ocean Wave Pool, and the Lazy River.

The Amazing Pizza Machine is an indoor entertainment quest with rides and arcade games of every variety. Their award winning buffet cannot be missed so make sure you come with a starving stomach!

CASINOS

If you’re in the mood for some blackjack and roulette , Omaha has you covered. With the Ameristar Casino Hotel, Harrah’s and Horseshoe casinos; it’s always a good time to go gambling.

GOLF COURSES

For golf aficionados, there are a number of golf courses available in parks such as the Elmwood and the Benson.

FULL SERVICE SALON AND SPA

Looking for a girl’s day out? Head over to one of the many spas and salons ready to service you to satisfaction. Avant Salon and Day Spa, Faces Day Spa, Garbo’s Salon and Spa are just some of the noteworthy salons Omaha contains.

NIGHTLIFE

Omaha has a quiet yet trendy nightlife scene with a number of pubs, breweries, sports bars and hip restaurants. The V, 2 Fine Irishmen, 21ST Saloon, Addy’s Sports Grill, and Alter Ego Ultra Lounge are some places to hang out with friends and family and enjoy fine dining and a good old fashioned drink.

RECREATION

If you’re an outdoor person, there are a wide range of activities to busy yourself with. With parks and water related adventures to explore, go running in Hanscom Dog Park, or diving with DiVentures. Omaha offers driftwood paddleboard adventures and cycling routes.

SHOPPING

Omaha has a number of malls and boutiques that are a shopper’s paradise. Go to Regency Court, Shadow Lake Towne Center, or if you’re looking for the personal touch, A Girl’s Best Friend and All About Me Boutique have a wide range of exclusive collections.

SPORTS

If you’re a sports fan, Omaha has its share of sport arenas. Horsemen’s Park, NCAA College World Series and the Omaha Lancers are just some of the few fun opportunities to check out.

So pack your bags and head on over to the heart of Nebraska, Omaha is calling.

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Omaha’s Newest Sister City, Boca Raton, FL

Omaha and Boca Raton, FL are now sister cities.  With similar population numbers but very different weather patterns, the decision to partner up was made in mid-2015.  While they are new-found sisters, the two towns have very different “personalities” when it comes to comparative demographics, climate, and economy.

A few Differences

Boca Raton is a sub-tropical paradise known for its opulence, with some of the most expensive waterfront real estate in the United States.  Omaha is a growing metropolis with traditional midwestern roots – home to insurance companies like Mutual of Omaha, Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway,  and high tech companies like Omaha native Proxibid.

Nestled on the Atlantic Ocean, Boca Raton enjoys year-round temperatures primarily in the 80s and lower 90s, perfect weather for taking a swim almost any time.  A flyover of the city will reveal that almost 70% of homes have pools according to Drew Nichols of Boca Raton real estate brokerage Palmetto Park Realty.  Omaha, meanwhile, has relatively colder winters, getting about 25 inches of snow annually, according to WeatherBase – most certainly not pool weather like that found in Boca Raton.

The economies do both share one similarity: a high number of service oriented businesses have been founded in both communities, a sign of a healthy economy in the high tech world we all live in.  Boca Raton counts a big start up community, especially financially related, while Omaha’s start-up community is more focused in the insurance, auction, and professional services areas.

The sister cities announcement celebration will take place in the coming weeks and will be simulcast.

Omaha is one of over 700 cities in the United States affiliated with over 2,400 communities in 134 countries across the world.  Source: http://www.omahasistercities.com/about/history/

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September 2015 Events in Omaha, NE

This blog will focus on discussing about some of the events that are coming recently in Omaha which will contribute to making the month of September turn out to be fun as well as exciting. Read on to know more on this.

Here are the things you should not miss doing while you’re on a trip to Omaha during the month of September.

Tuesday, September 18; Big O Bocce Leagues

This is one of the events taking place in September that you should not miss attending. This event is going to take place at Turner Park. The activity will involve various teams whereby every team is supposed to create their own teams that consist of 5- 8 players. You can as well sign up individually and the organizers will place you on any existing team. You’re encouraged that before the event you invite as many people as you can so that the events can be fun and exciting. Also, do not forget to carry your personal safety kit so that you can treat the small injuries that may occur during the event.

 Wednesday, September 18; Warm Up/ Cool Down

If you love exercises and if you want to learn some ways that can assist you reduce body weight and tension, then you should ensure that you attend this event. This event is an outdoor, group fitness class that conducts its activity at Turner Park every September. You’re encouraged that if possible you come with your family members so that they can get to experience the various benefits that this event will offer to the people.

The event will teach people the various ways of using workouts to reduce tension. Also, people will be advised on the various foods they’re supposed to consume which go handy with workouts and which are ideal for those people who want to reduce their body weight.

Thursday, September; End of Summer Concert Series

The summer might be seen coming to a close but the party is still taking place at Midtown Crossing with return of the End of Summer Concert Series that will feature some of Omaha’s hottest talent. Therefore, if you’re in Omaha and you want to showoff your talent, this is the place to be. Try also to convince your colleagues to ensure that they attend the event if in deed they wish to show off their talents. Some of the people we expect are musicians, acrobats, runners, swimmers, etc. who believe they’ve got talent but they’ve not yet started utilizing it.

Sandhill Crane Migration

In the month of September approximately 400, 000 migrating sand hill cranes usually feed as well as rest along the Platte River in the middle of the state near Omaha. Basically, at sunset, the horizon goes dark as these gray birds, which are about 5- 7 feet across the wing- tips returns to sandbars after they’ve feed in the fields.

The northbound cranes are considered to be among the great world’s great remaining migration. Thanks to the present of viewing areas which stretch along interstate that enables people to easily see those creatures. Typically, Omaha is an ideal place that you can go on vacation this September and get to experience this migration.

Booking Rentals & Hotels in Omaha

If you’re not residing in Omaha but you’ll be in this city in the month of September, it’s ideal that you book early enough one of the hotel rooms in Omaha. This is because there are so many visitors expected in this month of September. Look for the hotel that fits your budget and the one that you think you’ll comfortable with.

For more details about the various hotels in Omaha, Google on the internet and you’ll be provided with a variety of them plus the cost that you’ll be expected to pay.

Last, but not least, it is my sincere hope that you’ll attend any of the aforementioned events mentioned in this writeup. Ensure that you attend them so that you can get to experience the fun!

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Moving to Omaha, Nebraska? Here are Some Interesting Facts

Omaha blends down-home charm with urban chic, coming across as an eccentric city for those who are looking for an exciting experience living in a vibrant city. In this post, we highlight some interesting facts you should keep in mind about Omaha, more so if you are planning to move there.

Warren Buffet’s Home City

Warren Buffet, former richest person on the planet, is one among many ultra-rich individuals who hail from Omaha, Nebraska. Not that this should make it any more livable than any other city in the country, but maybe some of their good luck might rub on you, eh? If you are determined about leaving your current city and trying a new place altogether, this fact makes Omaha an interesting pick.

Get Some Beer Love

Omaha is a hotspot for breweries and local establishments that offer a rich variety of craft beers. If you are the typical beer lover, you’ll love it in this city. From Beer Fest to the Omaha Beer Week, there are scores of festivals devoted to Omaha’s favorite beverage all year round. You’ll never run out of places to hop to for some tasty beer.

How About Some Music Cool?

If you’ve been looking around, you probably have noticed that Omaha ranks every well on the country’s lists of top music cities. You can catch a show at the Slowdown, The Waiting Room, Venue 51, or the Barley Street Tavern. Every night, there’s a concert or open mic event in this city. If you love singing or just listening to some cool music vibe, this city should do the trick for you.

Everything in 20 Minutes

In Omaha, everything seems to be just 20 minutes away. Ask a local person how long it takes to move from one point to the other, and the answer is almost always 20 minutes. With manageable traffic during rush hour, and interstate access, it’s easy to move around the city and its environs.

Feast on Some Omaha Steaks

Ever heard of Omaha Steaks? Yes you have. The city of Omaha has no shortage of excellent steakhouses. You can try any of the many joints in town, starting with The Drover, all the way to Brother Sebastian’s, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, or even Gorat’s (Warren Buffet’s favorite).

Best Zoo in the US

Henry Doorly Zoo has been ranked the best zoo in the country. This place has the biggest geodesic dome within the U.S, the largest indoor rain forest, and is a fantastic place where you can see monkeys, bears, penguins, and other animals you can think of that are housed here.

Welcome to Silicon Prairie

Omaha is part of the Silicon Prairie, and there are numerous tech startups and entrepreneurs. If you’re looking for employment in the tech sector, or would like to invest in this space, Omaha has no shortage of opportunities. You can start by going to the Big Omaha conference and checking out some ‘Silcon Prairie News’ on Google.

Home to Most Fortune 500 Companies in one City

Omaha has five Fortune 500 companies, which is the greatest number in any one city within the nation: Berkshire Hathaway, ConAgra Foods, Peter Kiewit Son’, Union Pacific, and Mutual of Omaha. Doesn’t this just highlight that Omaha is a vibrant city where businesses can thrive?

You Can Talk to Strangers Here

Omaha is no doubt one of the friendliest cities in the world. Here you can talk to strangers anywhere, any time. You’ll be surprised how everyone you meet is friends with someone you know. Talk about hospitality!

Omaha’s Museums are Top Notch

Joslyn Art Museum offers a diverse collection of fine art, from Rembrandt’s all the way to the modern masters. What’s better? Admission into this artsy place is free. Once known as Union Station, the Art Deco masterpiece has been turned into Durham Museum. Here you can tour vintage trains and witness see changing exhibits going back 60 years. If you’re looking for somewhere to go on a rainy Saturday, the Joslyn Art Museum and the Durham Museum are best places!

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Top 10 Annual Events in Nebraska

This post highlights the most important annual events in the state of Nebraska. If you’re in the any city within Nebraska and are looking forward to state fairs and other important events, this list should provide enough guidance.

1.   Omaha SeptemberFest – Omaha (August/September)

SeptemberFest 2017

The SeptemberFest has been voted one of the best events in the USA, and is the most popular event in the state of Nebraska. Omaha SeptemberFest has been a state tradition for over 34 years, and offers opportunities for family entertainment, music talent, Labor Day parade, concerts, mechanical bull circus, and fireworks, among other things. This event brings together over 140,000 people together, some of whom travel from neighboring states.

2.   Crane Watch Festival – Kearney (March)

Crane Watch Nebraska

The city of Kearney has been appointed the Sandhill Crane Capital in the globe. Kearney welcomes over 80% of the world’s sandhill cranes, travelling all the way from southern winter grounds to their northern breeding areas in Alaska, Canada, and Siberia. Along the Platte, the sandhill cranes rest to gain some body fat before continuing on their journey north. It is around this rest that the entire Crane Watch Festival is centered. There are dozens of fun-filled family and educational activities that include the Ms. Crane Watch Pageant.

3.   Arbor Day Celebration – Nebraska City (April)

Arbor Day Event Nebraska

The Arbor Day Celebration is one of the top 10 events or festivals in the state of Nebraska. This event is celebrated annually on the last Friday of April. Arbor Day has everything to do with tree planting, but also entails children’s activities as well as live entertainment. There’s also a family festival hosted at Wildwood Center, a 5K run, and a parade. This event is particularly important because it was founded in Nebraska by Sterling Morton back in 1872.

4.   Buffalo Commons Storytelling Festival – McCook (June)

Buffalo Commons Festival Storytelling

This is an award winning event that is recognized among the top 10 events in the state of Nebraska. It brings together nationally-acclaimed storytellers, musicians, and poets and is aimed at celebrating ordinary people who live extraordinary lives. This festival is arranged by the Buffalo Commons Committee.

5.   Intertribal Gathering in Fort Robinson Park -Crawford (June)

Fort Robinson Intertribal Gathering. Children dancers enter the arena during the Fort Robinson Intertribal Powwow. Haag, June 8, 2013. Copyright NEBRASKAland Magazine, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

This is an Native Indian Pow wow that is organized and held at Robinson Park. This event attracts over 3,500 attendees, and is intended to foster cultural awareness in this region. Here you’ll enjoy displays of Native American Indian dance, music, crafts, as well as other profound traditions. Popular artistic performances here include singing, drumming, dance, and storytelling.

6.   NEBRASKAland Days – North Platte (June)

The largest biggest event in west Nebraska, this is a celebration of Nebraska’s heritage. NEBRASKAland is complete with awesome concerts, athletic contests, parades, a micro-brew festival, food events, art shows, boxing, and rodeos. Over 100,000 folks come to North Platte to experience a whopping 12 days of fun during this event.

7.   Wayne Chicken Show – Wayne (July)

A local tradition that goes back to 1981, the Chicken Show comes across as a thrilling event that’s held each year on the 2nd Saturday of July. This event garnered the Nebraska Outstanding Tourism Award of 1996, and was featured in none other than the Library of Congress. Activities here include the largest Chicken dance in the world, kids games, fireworks, kite flying, as well as live entertainment.

8.   John C Fremont Days Festival – Fremont (July)

Named among the top 100 events within North America, this event celebrates the life of John C Fremont and provides a diversity of events including sporting, craft and vendor shows, rodeo, Little Ms. Fremont Pageant, a parade, hot air balloons, food courts, food eating contests, archery tournaments, square dancing, cosmic bowling, and martial arts demonstrations, among others.

9.   Nebraska’s Big Rodeo – Burwell (July)

This is a yearly event in Burwell, Nebraska that has been around for at least 86 years. This particular event features 7 professional rodeo events, clown acts, chariot races, motor cycle dare devils, wild horse race, bull riding, junior steer riding, trick riders, dinner bell derby, and midway.

10.                  Nebraska Star Party – Valentine (August)

Organized inNorth Central Nebraska, this is a regional star party event that happens every summer. The Star party takes place at the sparsely populated region of Sanke River Campground. Notable events here include a beach party, canoe and tubing trip, contests, as well as educational activities for children.

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