Family Fun in Omaha

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Free Family Events this Weekend in Omaha {1/31-2/3}

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Enjoy many Free (or inexpensive) Family-Friendly Events this weekend!  Be sure to visit the Family-Friendly Event Calendar for additional details on these and ALL of the free activities coming up!  See more Upcoming Events in Omaha here!

Also, I would love to hear from you: How can The Spirit of Saving be more helpful to you?  What would you like to see in the future?  Please complete a 2-minute survey to share your ideas.  I appreciate all of your feedback and suggestions!

See Also:

Thursday:

Friday:

Saturday:

Sunday:

Looking Ahead:

Looking for Frugal Fun in Lincoln this weekend?  Visit Chicks Dig Deals!

It is always a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.  If you know of a Free Family Event happening this weekend, please leave a comment below and I will add it to the list!

Have a wonderful fun-filled weekend!

Free Family Flicks at Aksarben Cinema!

The Free Family Flicks at Aksarben logo.

Aksarben Cinema is once again offering Free Family Flicks this Winter!  Starting January 26th, enjoy free movies on Saturday and Sunday mornings at 11am with ticket.

Free tickets will be available at these sponsors: Enterprise Bank, Learning HQ, Ponzu Sushi and Grill, Jones Bros. Cupcakes, and Together, starting the Monday of the week of each screening.  Doors will open at 10:30am and seating will be offered on a first come, first served basis.  Note: It is a good idea to arrive early, as having a ticket does not guarantee a seat.

Guests are also asked to bring one non-perishable food item to donate to Together.  Enjoy!

  • Jan 26-27: Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted
  • Feb 2-3: Ice Age: Continental Drift
  • Feb 9-10: Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
  • Feb 16-17: Hotel Transylvania
  • Feb 23-24: The Lorax

Enjoy $2 Movies at Marcus Theatres this Winter, too!

See more Upcoming Free and Inexpensive Family Events here and in the Event Calendar!  Plus, enjoy 80+ Things to Do in Omaha this Winter (Many Free!)!

Free Family Events this Weekend 11/1-11/4

It is already November (hard to believe!) and the weekend is almost here!  Every Thursday, I post many free (or almost free) fun family activities to enjoy in Omaha and nationwide!  Be sure to visit the Event Calendar (or the calendar list view on the right of this page) for more information on ALL of the free activities coming up!  It is always a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.

Highlights of Upcoming Omaha Events

First Friday Old Market – 11/2, 6-9pm
  • First Friday is a free event celebrating local creativity in Omaha’s most historic neighborhood.  They are also offering free parking and free rides on Ollie the Trolley, 6-9pm. Nebraska at the Market, 1215 Leavenworth, is generously offering their 60 parking spaces for free. Park there and start your walking tour or hop aboard the trolley to circulate the neighborhood.
Free General Admission to the Joslyn Art Museum – 11/3, 10am-12pm
  • Enjoy FREE general admission, Saturdays, 10 am–noon.  Additional charge for some special exhibitions.  Joslyn Art Museum’s Peter Kiewit Foundation Sculpture Garden is open year-round from 7 am to 11 pm each day, and admission is free.
Free Admission to Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium – 11/4, 10am-4pm
  • The Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium has broken their highest annual attendance record.  As a thank you to the community for continued support, they are offering Free gate admission this Sunday, November 4th, from 10am – 4pm!

Highlights of Upcoming National Events

$5 Movies at Marcus Theatres with coupon – 11/1
Home Depot Free Kids Workshop – 11/3, 9am-12pm
  • Home Depot offers FREE kid’s workshops on the first Saturday of each month, from 9am-12pm. They are designed for children ages 5-12.
    • Saturday, November 3, 2012 – Build a Turkey Napkin Holder for the holidays!

Planning Ahead

Westroads Kid’s Club – 11/7, 10:30-11:30am
  • The Omaha Children’s Museum and Westroads Mall invite you to play. learn. together. at the Westroads Mall Kid’s Club, held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30am – 11:30am on the Upper Level near the Children’s Play Area.
    • November 7th will feature Discovery Dome: One World, One Sky.
Shadow Lake Towne Center Kids Club – 11/8, 10:30-11:30am
  • Shadow Lake Towne Center offers Kids Club, a FREE hour of fun for children.  A different activity is featured in a different store / restaurant each month.
    • November 8th – Puppet Personalities Show by Chris Short at the First National Bank branch
Military Weekend at Joslyn Art Museum – 11/9-11/11
  • Friday through Sunday, November 9–11, Joslyn will offer free admission for all active and retired military in honor of Veterans Day (simply show your Military ID badge). Thank you for your service.
Free Entrance to National Parks – 11/10-11/12
  • November 10-12 – Veterans Day weekend.  Over 100 national parks that usually charge entrance fees are offering free entrance that day.  Find a participating park near you here.
Veteran’s Day at the Zoo – 11/11
  • In honor of those who proudly served our nation, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo will be offering free gate admission to all active and retired Veterans and their immediate families on Veteran’s Day, Sunday, November 11, 2012.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Free Family Events this Weekend 10/25-10/28

A trick or treat graphic.

The weekend is almost here!  Every Thursday, I post many free (or almost free) fun family activities to enjoy in Omaha and nationwide!  Be sure to visit the Event Calendar (or the calendar list view on the right of this page) for more information on ALL of the free activities coming up!  It is always a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.

Don’t miss:

Highlights of Upcoming Omaha Events

Omaha Public Library Halloween Events – 10/18-11/5
  • Many events including storytimes, parades, crafts and more at Omaha Public Libraries.
Halloween Event 2012 at Bass Pro Shop – 10/19-10/31
  • Halloween Photo Opportunity, Crafts, Trick or Treating, Grab an Apple Activity, Halloween Scavenger Hunt, Costume Parade.  See website for exact dates and times of all activities.
Halloween Safe Night and Fall Festival at Papillion-LaVista South High School – 10/25, 6:00-8:00pm
  • Events will include a costume contest, games, prizes, bounce houses and activities for all ages.  Admission is free with a canned or non perishable food item for one of the Sarpy County Food Pantries.
Halloween Trick-or-Treat at OneWorld Community Health Center – 10/26, 4:30-7:00pm
  •  Kids ages 12 and under can Trick-or-Treat in a fun and safe environment at OneWorld Community Health Center, 4920 South 30th Street (30th and L, in the  Historic Livestock Exchange Building).
Halloween Family Fun Night at your Local YMCA – 10/26
  • Council Bluffs YMCA – 10/26, 5:30-7:30pm – Games, musical chairs, and make and take crafts.  Friendly costumes welcome.  Free to the community!
  • Sarpy YMCA – 10/26, 6-7:30pm – Free to members, $10/family for non-members.  Trunk or Treat in the parking lot, followed by games and fun inside.  Sign-up ahead of time.
  • Maple Street YMCA – 10/26, 6:30-8pm – Free to members, $5/family for non-members.  A fun-filled Halloween party for all ages. Join us for games, crafts, and food. This year we have a new Trunk or Treat, too!
Monster Mash Bash at Oak View Mall – 10/26, 6-9pm
  • Kids and Parents – Come to Oak View Mall and Celebrate Halloween Inside!  Wear Your Costume and Trick or Treat Merchants throughout the Mall from 6-9 pm.  Treats, Dance Contest, Costume Contest, Craft Table, Watch a Movie.  We went to this last year and my kids loved it!
Westroads Mall Spooktacular Trick-or-Treat Event – 10/26, 6-8pm
  • Westroads Mall will give away Free Trick-or-Treat bags filled with candy, terrific retailer offers and a Free child admission pass to Rave Motion Pictures, while supplies last.  The line for the bags will form at the Food Court entrance on the lower level. Children will then be allowed to trick-or-treat inside the mall at the various participating retailers.  Also special appearances by McGruff and Johnny Justice, AAA Nebraska will provide safety tips and free face painting, and The Omaha Storm Chasers mascots Casey and Stormy will be on hand to visit with trick-or-treaters.
Omaha’s Great Pumpkin at Village Pointe – 10/27, 10am-2pm, 7-8pm
  • FREE Family Festival with Pumpkin Carving, Fun Kids’ Activities, and Professional & Celebrity Carvers.  Join Lutheran Family Services (LFS) at the Village Pointe roundabout where hundreds of pumpkins will be carved, making up Nebraska’s largest pumpkin sculpture, representing the children waiting for a home in Nebraska.  Be sure to come by that night at 7 pm when the tree of jack-o-lanterns will be lit up and remain lit through Halloween.
Halloween at Hummel Park Nature Center – 10/27, 10:30am-12:00pm
  • Join us for our Halloween Party!  Play the great pumpkin splash, search for spiders, paint pumpkins, and enjoy many other family friendly activities!  Costumes encouraged!  Fee: $1.00 drop-in.
Benson Boo Bash and Trick or Treat on Maple Street – 10/27, 10:30am-1pm
  • Come in costume to enjoy games and prizes, treats, popcorn, and bounce house at the Benson Community Center, 6008 Maple Street.  Bring your own treat bag to trick or treat to businesses.
Trick-or-Treat at Nebraska Furniture Mart – 10/27, 11am-2pm
  • Join us Saturday, October 27, from 11am-2pm in your favorite Halloween Costume for trick-or-treating throughout the store.
SPOOKTACULAR at Saddlebrook – 10/27, 1-3pm
  • Join the Community Center and Library for our Spooktacular Halloween event!  Bring the whole family to join us for storytime, crafts, and gym fun!
Halloween Meet and Treat – 10/27, 4-8pm
  • The Southeast Precinct (25th and Vinton Street) of the Omaha Police Department is hosting the Halloween Meet and Treat on Saturday, October 27th. This is an opportunity for kids to meet officers, and have a safe trick-or-treating experience.  Thanks Momaha!
Pigskin in the Park – 10/27, 7pm
  • Omaha’s Ultimate Husker Tailgate Party!  Cheer on the Huskers on a Giant 26 foot High Def Viewing Screen, and enjoy prizes and giveaways, fun for kids, and food and beverage specials from one of many great restaurants in Midtown Crossing. Coolers also welcome.  The park opens at 5.
Fall Folk Festival at Dee-sign Landscaping and Garden Center – 10/28, 12-4pm
  •  Fall Folk Festival will be held at Dee-sign North Nursery, 5602 Read St. (3 blocks N. Sorenson).  Free admission with Live music, bake sale, nursery garage sale, pumpkin painting, scavenger hunt, games, bouncy house, henna tattoos.  Halloween costumes encouraged.
Halloween Hoopla at Shadow Lake Towne Center – 10/28, 1-3pm
  • Kids, wear your Halloween costumes a few days early for a fun afternoon at Shadow Lake Towne Center!  Safe trick-or-treating at participating Shadow Lake Towne Center merchants displaying an owl in the front window, and free Hayrack rides.
Old Market Trick or Treat – 10/28, 1-4pm
  • Free fun for the entire family.  Get in costume and stroll the Old Market where participating merchants will be handing out treats.  Interact with strolling characters.  Music, activities, and storytelling sites will be located throughout the Old Market.  Maps will be available the day of the event at 11th & Howard information booth.  New this year…”Books Are Treats”.  FREE books are available to all on the Metro Transit Book Bus.
Halloween Fun Day at Village Pointe – 10/28, 2-5pm
  • Kids can wear costumes and join us in Center Court for fun Halloween games, face painting and candy for everyone.  Enjoy trick-or-treating at Village Pointe merchants with bright orange pumpkin signs in participating store windows.  Bring along a canned food donation to benefit the Food Bank for the Heartland or a donation of new or gently-used coats to be eligible for a drawing for a $25 Village Pointe Gift Card. All coats will benefit the Omaha Salvation Army.
Trick or Trunk in Aksarben Village – 10/28, 3-5pm
  • POWER 106.9 PRESENTS TRICK OR TRUNK!  Please come to Aksarben Village and Stinson Park to Trick or Treat out of NEW vehicles with your little ones.  There will be TRUNKS filled with candy on Mercy Road. Food and drinks from Jones Bros. Cupcakes, Godfather’s Pizza, Mojo Smokehouse and Ales, Wohlner’s, Kettle Corn etc. and Aksarben Cinema will be handing out surprises…all in Stinson Park.  There will be face painting and balloon twisters, bounce houses, hay rack rides and other activites for the children.

Highlights of Upcoming National Events

Lowe’s Free Build and Grow Clinic – 10/27, 10am
  • Lowe’s offers free Build and Grow clinics every other Saturday at 10am. Bring the kids to any Lowe’s store to build fun projects. This is recommended for children in grades 1st-5th. Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.
    • Creepy Keeper – Oct 27, 2012
Marcus Theatres POP 3D Family Film Series – 10/27, 10am; 10/28, 11am
  • Throughout October, Marcus Theatres is offering four weeks of family-friendly 3D movies for only $3!  The POP 3D Family Film Series will feature favorites Saturdays at 10am and Sundays at 11am.  Additionally, enjoy these concession specials: 46oz Popcorn or 14oz Sodas for Only $2 Each!  In the Omaha area, this includes 20 Grand, Twin Creek in Bellevue, and Village Pointe.
    • October 27-28: Journey 2

Planning Ahead

Halloween Story Time at Pottery Barn Kids – 10/30, 11am
  • Come dressed in costume for extra fun as we enjoy Halloween stories, activities, and more.
Halloween Storytime at Barnes and Noble Stores – 10/30, 11am
  • Join us for a not-so-haunting Halloween Storytime. Some of our favorite books are about monsters and pumpkins, as well as a few other not-so-spooky creepy crawlie things.
Trick-or-Treat at Pacific Street Hy-vee – 10/30, 4-6pm
  • Bring your little ghost or goblin in to trick-or-treat at your Hy-Vee on Pacific anytime between 4-6pm!  Frankenstein and his friends will be here to entertain and we will have an awesome backdrop set up where you can take some awesome pictures of the kids!
Toddler Trick or Treat with Sump Memorial Library, Papillion – 10/31, 9:45am
  • Enjoy a story or two and then trick or treat around the library and downtown merchants.  It’s a parade – costumes welcome!  Thanks Omaha Area Kiddie Fun!
City of LaVista Halloween Safe Night – 10/31, 5:30-7:00pm
  • Trick-or-Treating, Spook House and more!  Free hot dogs (courtesy of the La Vista Volunteer Fire Department).  Pumpkin Decorating Contest – Drop off entries at the Community Center 8 am-9 pm either Monday, October 29 or Tuesday, October 30.
Pumpkin Patch Party at Salvation Army Kroc Center – 10/31, 5-6:30pm
  • Free to All!  Come in costume and celebrate Halloween at the Kroc Center’s Pumpkin Patch Party!  Including a Pumpkin Push, Monster Pop Toss, The Creepy-Crawl, a kid-friendly meal & drink, and a keepsake Halloween photo for each family.  The first 100 kids (age 12 & under) get a free treat bag.
First Friday Old Market – 11/2, 6-9pm
Home Depot Free Kids Workshop – 11/3, 9am-12pm
  • Saturday, November 3, 2012 – Build a Turkey Napkin Holder for the holidays!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Free Family Events this Weekend 10/18-10/21

A graphic that reads, Upcoming Free Family Events.The weekend is almost here!  Every Thursday, I post many free (or almost free) fun family activities to enjoy in Omaha and nationwide!  Be sure to visit the Event Calendar (or the calendar list view on the right of this page) for more information on ALL of the free activities coming up!  It is always a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.

Don’t miss:

Highlights of Upcoming Omaha Events

Halloween Event 2012 at Bass Pro Shop – 10/19-10/31
  • Halloween Photo Opportunity, Crafts, Trick or Treating, Grab an Apple Activity, Halloween Scavenger Hunt, Costume Parade.  See website for exact dates and times of all activities.
Celebration of Mind Nebraska at the Strategic Air & Space Museum – 10/20, 10am-4pm
  • “Celebration of Mind” is a family event for those interested in the joy of thinking, playable art, problem solving, recreational math, and creativity.  Sponsored by The Strategic Air and Space Museum and Fat Brain Toys, this interactive event will feature presentations and entertainment, including ‘The Zip Code Man”, and over 15 different activities.  The event is free for the first 500 to register, and includes admission to the museum.  This sounds really cool!
  • ***UPDATE: Free admission for the first 500 attendees has been exceeded. You may still attend the Celebration of Mind by purchasing a standard admission the day of the event at the Strategic Air & Space Museum.
Mav Kids Halloween Party – 10/20, 11am-2pm
  • UNO Campus Recreation is hosting the annual Mav Kids Halloween Party in the HPER Building.  The Halloween bash features a haunted house, games, prizes and candy.  The event is free and open to the UNO community and general public.  They will be collecting canned food for the local shelves and towels and blankets for Town and Country Humane Society.
Toys for Tots at Camp Fontanelle Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze – 10/21
  • Toys for Tots – Bring a girls or boys new toy valued at $5 or more and get free admission!  One toy = one free admission.  Marines will receive toys 2-5 pm.
Food Day Omaha in Aksarben Village – 10/21, 9am-1pm
  • The Omaha Farmers Market at Aksarben Village has been extended one more week to help celebrate Food Day. The extended market will be from 9am to 1pm and have approximately 70 booths. In addition to the Farmers Market, there will be children’s activities, cooking demonstrations and more to teach attendees how to support sustainable farming and promotes safe, healthy foods. Join us for Food Day in a national effort to encourage Americans to “Eat Real.”

Highlights of Upcoming National Events

Marcus Theatres POP 3D Family Film Series – 10/20, 10am; 10/21, 11am
  • Throughout October, Marcus Theatres is offering four weeks of family-friendly 3D movies for only $3!  The POP 3D Family Film Series will feature favorites Saturdays at 10am and Sundays at 11am.  Additionally, enjoy these concession specials: 46oz Popcorn or 14oz Sodas for Only $2 Each!  In the Omaha area, this includes 20 Grand, Twin Creek in Bellevue, and Village Pointe.
    • October 20-21: Happy Feet Two

Planning Ahead

Halloween Safe Night and Fall Festival at Papillion-LaVista South High School – 10/25, 6:00-8:00pm
  • Events will include a costume contest, games, prizes, bounce houses and activities for all ages.  Admission is free with a canned or non perishable food item for one of the Sarpy County Food Pantries.
Omaha Public Library Halloween Events – 10/18-11/5
  • Many events including storytimes, parades, crafts and more at Omaha Public Libraries.
Halloween Family Fun Night at your Local YMCA – 10/26
  • Council Bluffs YMCA – 10/26, 5:30-7:30pm – Games, musical chairs, and make and take crafts.  Friendly costumes welcome.  Free to the community!
  • Sarpy YMCA – 10/26, 6-7:30pm – Free to members, $10/family for non-members.  Trunk or Treat in the parking lot, followed by games and fun inside.  Sign-up ahead of time.
  • Maple Street YMCA – 10/26, 6:30-8pm – Free to members, $5/family for non-members.  A fun-filled Halloween party for all ages. Join us for games, crafts, and food. This year we have a new Trunk or Treat, too!
Monster Mash Bash at Oak View Mall – 10/26, 6-9pm
  • Kids and Parents – Come to Oak View Mall and Celebrate Halloween Inside!  Wear Your Costume and Trick or Treat Merchants throughout the Mall from 6-9 pm.  Treats, Dance Contest, Costume Contest, Craft Table, Watch a Movie.  We went to this last year and my kids loved it!
Westroads Mall Spooktacular Trick-or-Treat Event – 10/26, 6-8pm
  • Westroads Mall will give away Free Trick-or-Treat bags filled with candy, terrific retailer offers and a Free child admission pass to Rave Motion Pictures, while supplies last.  The line for the bags will form at the Food Court entrance on the lower level. Children will then be allowed to trick-or-treat inside the mall at the various participating retailers.  Also special appearances by McGruff and Johnny Justice, AAA Nebraska will provide safety tips and free face painting, and The Omaha Storm Chasers mascots Casey and Stormy will be on hand to visit with trick-or-treaters.
Lowe’s Free Build and Grow Clinic – 10/27, 10am
  • Lowe’s offers free Build and Grow clinics every other Saturday at 10am. Bring the kids to any Lowe’s store to build fun projects. This is recommended for children in grades 1st-5th. Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.
    • Creepy Keeper – Oct 27, 2012
Marcus Theatres POP 3D Family Film Series – 10/27, 10am; 10/28, 11am
  • October 27-28: Journey 2
Omaha’s Great Pumpkin at Village Pointe – 10/27, 10am-2pm, 7-8pm
  • FREE Family Festival with Pumpkin Carving, Fun Kids’ Activities, and Professional & Celebrity Carvers.  Join Lutheran Family Services (LFS) at the Village Pointe roundabout where hundreds of pumpkins will be carved, making up Nebraska’s largest pumpkin sculpture, representing the children waiting for a home in Nebraska.  Be sure to come by that night at 7 pm when the tree of jack-o-lanterns will be lit up and remain lit through Halloween.
Halloween at Hummel Park Nature Center – 10/27, 10:30am-12:00pm
  • Join us for our Halloween Party!  Play the great pumpkin splash, search for spiders, paint pumpkins, and enjoy many other family friendly activities!  Costumes encouraged!  Fee: $1.00 drop-in.
Benson Boo Bash and Trick or Treat on Maple Street – 10/27, 10:30am-1pm
  • Come in costume to enjoy games and prizes, treats, popcorn, and bounce house at the Benson Community Center, 6008 Maple Street.  Bring your own treat bag to trick or treat to businesses.
SPOOKTACULAR at Saddlebrook – 10/27, 1-3pm
  • Join the Community Center and Library for our Spooktacular Halloween event!  Bring the whole family to join us for storytime, crafts, and gym fun!
Fall Folk Festival at Dee-sign Landscaping and Garden Center – 10/28, 12-4pm
  •  Fall Folk Festival will be held at Dee-sign North Nursery, 5602 Read St. (3 blocks N. Sorenson).  Free admission with Live music, bake sale, nursery garage sale, pumpkin painting, scavenger hunt, games, bouncy house, henna tattoos.  Halloween costumes encouraged.
Halloween Hoopla at Shadow Lake Towne Center – 10/28, 1-3pm
  • Kids, wear your Halloween costumes a few days early for a fun afternoon at Shadow Lake Towne Center!  Safe trick-or-treating at participating Shadow Lake Towne Center merchants displaying an owl in the front window, and free Hayrack rides.
Old Market Trick or Treat – 10/28, 1-4pm
  • Free fun for the entire family.  Get in costume and stroll the Old Market where participating merchants will be handing out treats.  Interact with strolling characters.  Music, activities, and storytelling sites will be located throughout the Old Market.  Maps will be available the day of the event at 11th & Howard information booth.  New this year…”Books Are Treats”.  FREE books are available to all on the Metro Transit Book Bus.
Halloween Fun Day at Village Pointe – 10/28, 2-5pm
  • Kids can wear costumes and join us in Center Court for fun Halloween games, face painting and candy for everyone.  Enjoy trick-or-treating at Village Pointe merchants with bright orange pumpkin signs in participating store windows.  Bring along a canned food donation to benefit the Food Bank for the Heartland or a donation of new or gently-used coats to be eligible for a drawing for a $25 Village Pointe Gift Card. All coats will benefit the Omaha Salvation Army.
Trick or Trunk in Aksarben Village – 10/28, 3-5pm
  • POWER 106.9 PRESENTS TRICK OR TRUNK!  Please come to Aksarben Village and Stinson Park to Trick or Treat out of NEW vehicles with your little ones.  There will be TRUNKS filled with candy on Mercy Road. Food and drinks from Jones Bros. Cupcakes, Godfather’s Pizza, Mojo Smokehouse and Ales, Wohlner’s, Kettle Corn etc. and Aksarben Cinema will be handing out surprises…all in Stinson Park.  There will be face painting and balloon twisters, bounce houses, hay rack rides and other activites for the children.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Free Family Events this Weekend 10/11-10/14

A graphic that reads, Upcoming Free Family Events.The weekend is almost here!  Every Thursday, I post many free (or almost free) fun family activities to enjoy in Omaha and nationwide!  Be sure to visit the Event Calendar (or the calendar list view on the right of this page) for more information on ALL of the free activities coming up!  It is always a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.

Don’t miss:

Highlights of Upcoming Omaha Events

Saturday Surprise Kids’ Program and Free Admission at Joslyn Art Museum – 10/13, 10am-12pm

  • Through partnerships with local artists and area organizations or special programming for children and families, there is always something new to explore here at the Museum! Join us every other Saturday from 10 am–noon for a self-guided art project at Joslyn! Remember FREE General Admission to the Joslyn on Saturdays, 10am-12pm.
    • October 13th – What It Means To Me

Mangelsen’s Witches Tea – 10/13, 11am-3pm

  • It’s our 35th Annual Witches Tea – a great Halloween Party in the parking lot that is fun for the whole family!  Ghoulish Games, Face Painting, Balloon Animals, Halloween Crafts, Jered the Incredible Magic Show @ 11:30am, and Costume Contest at 1:00pm  – 5 age categories, no pre-registration needed.

Harvest Fest at HyVee (180th and Pacific) – 10/13, 11am-6pm

  • Join us for our 1st Annual Harvest Fest.  Enjoy bounce house, caramel apples, games, crafts for kids, music, and antique tractor parade at 11am.  Silent auction runs from 11:00am-6pm with the proceeds going to “Womenade of Elkhorn,” a local organization helping children and families in need in the Elkhorn Public School District.

Springfield Fire Department Open House – 10/13, 4-8pm

  •  Family Fun Night and BBQ at Springfield Fire Station, 505 S. 1st Street, Springfield, NE.  Free Admission, donations appreciated.

Papillion Fire Department Open House – 10/14, 8am-1pm

  • Come to our Free Community Appreciation Breakfast with many great public safety demonstrations and kids activities.  This will be held at Station 1, 146 North Adams Street in Papillion.
  • One Sky, One World Fly at the LaVista Soccer Complex, just South of 66th & Harrison Streets.
  • We’ve got a full day of printing planned just for you.  Stop by and visit the new exhibition “Under Pressure,” and enjoy a day of art-making and gallery fun with friends and family.
  •  This family friendly event is FREE and open to the public, and will be held at District 1 Station, 8110 Park View Blvd in LaVista.

Highlights of Upcoming National Events

Marcus Theatres POP 3D Family Film Series – 10/13, 10am; 10/14, 11am

  •  Throughout October, Marcus Theatres is offering four weeks of family-friendly 3D movies for only $3!  The POP 3D Family Film Series will feature favorites Saturdays at 10am and Sundays at 11am.  Additionally, enjoy these concession specials: 46oz Popcorn or 14oz Sodas for Only $2 Each!  In the Omaha area, this includes 20 Grand, Twin Creek in Bellevue, and Village Pointe.
    • October 13-14: Dolphin Tale
  • Lowe’s offers free Build and Grow clinics every other Saturday at 10am. Bring the kids to any Lowe’s store to build fun projects. This is recommended for children in grades 1st-5th. Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.
    • Ghoul Bus – Oct 13, 2012

Harry Potter Halloween at Barnes & Noble Booksellers – 10/13, 7:00pm

  • Select Barnes & Noble stores will host a Harry Potter Halloween Party for ages 7 to 16 on Saturday, October 13. Dress up as your favorite Harry Potter character and join us for a scavenger hunt and costume contest.

Planning Ahead

Wizards and Witches Potion Party at Saddlebrook Community Center – 10/16, 10-11:30am

  • Ages: 2 – 5 years, $2/Child.  Come in costume for a Halloween celebration including a fun story, crafts, and a ghostly snack!  Registration Deadline: Sunday 10/14.

Story Adventures at Joslyn – 10/16, 10:30-11:30am

  • Young readers and their grown-ups are invited to Story Adventures, an artful reading program presented by Joslyn and Omaha Public Library. Nurture your imagination as a librarian reads stories aloud and engages the family in conversation connecting books and art. Admission is free!
    • October 16: Travel & Adventure

Halloween Event 2012 at Bass Pro Shop – 10/19-10/31

  • Halloween Photo Opportunity, Crafts, Trick or Treating, Grab an Apple Activity, Halloween Scavenger Hunt, Costume Parade.  See website for exact dates and times of all activities.

Celebration of Mind Nebraska at the Strategic Air & Space Museum – 10/20, 10am-4pm

  • “Celebration of Mind” is a family event for those interested in the joy of thinking, playable art, problem solving, recreational math, and creativity.  Sponsored by The Strategic Air and Space Museum and Fat Brain Toys, this interactive event will feature presentations and entertainment, including ‘The Zip Code Man”, and over 15 different activities.  The event is free for the first 500 to register, and includes admission to the museum.  This sounds really cool!

Marcus Theatres POP 3D Family Film Series – 10/20, 10am; 10/21, 11am

  • October 20-21: Happy Feet Two

Toys for Tots at Camp Fontanelle Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze – 10/21

  • Toys for Tots – Bring a girls or boys new toy valued at $5 or more and get free admission!  One toy = one free admission.  Marines will receive toys 2-5 pm.
  • The Omaha Farmers Market at Aksarben Village has been extended one more week to help celebrate Food Day. The extended market will be from 9am to 1pm and have approximately 70 booths. In addition to the Farmers Market, there will be children’s activities, cooking demonstrations and more to teach attendees how to support sustainable farming and promotes safe, healthy foods. Join us for Food Day in a national effort to encourage Americans to “Eat Real.”
Have a wonderful weekend!

Free Family Events this Weekend 10/4-10/7

A graphic of a blue truck with overlay text that reads, Touch a Truck.

The weekend is almost here, and there are many free (or almost free) fun family activities both locally and nationally to enjoy!  Be sure to visit the Event Calendar (or the calendar list view on the right of this page) for more information on ALL of the free activities coming up!  It is always a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.

Don’t miss:

Highlights of Upcoming Omaha Events

First Friday Old Market – 10/5, 6-9pm

  • Held the first Friday of each month, 6-9pm, First Friday is a free event celebrating local creativity in Omaha’s most historic neighborhood.
  • Local food from Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota farmers held on Saturdays, 8 am to 1 pm, Rain or Shine.  Celebrate the final day with free festivities for everyone.  Live Music • Arts & Crafts Booths • Car Show.  For The Kids – Hayrack Rides • Pumpkin Decorating • Bounce House, Face Painting • Giveaways & Stickers
  • Along with a Bounce House, face painting, art demonstrations and take along crafts…there will be performers on the main stage. Theresa’s Tae Kwondo at 9 am, Heartland Youth Ballet at 9:30 am, Michael Fitzsimmons at 10 am, Papillion LaVista Arts Network performers from 11- 12pm.
Gifford Farm Fall Festival – 10/6, 10am-4pm; 10/7, 11am-4pm
  •  Saturday, October 6, 10-4 and Sunday, October 7, 11-4. Enjoy a day of old fashioned fun on the farm! Friendly farm animals, games, raffle prizes, pony rides, hay rack ride, food and much more!  Come and play in our brand new Outdoor Nature Classroom, too!  Admission $5 includes hay rack ride and Gifford Farm programs.  All proceeds go towards Gifford Farm Missouri River Flood fund.

Touch-A-Truck – 10/6, 11am-3pm

  • Don’t miss Child Saving Institute’s 6th annual Touch-A-Truck event. The CSI’s Guild’s exciting “friend-raiser” is a free event for the entire family where children can see and climb on “real life” vehicles. Kids, accompanied by their parents or guardian, can explore emergency and military vehicles, semi-trucks, bobcats, race cars and other commercial vehicles and talk to the people who operate them. Other activities will include face-painting, prizes, bouncy tents, food, clowns and more.  Held at First Data/UNO Parking Lots, 69th and Pacific.
Pigskin in the Park – 10/6, 7pm
  • Omaha’s Ultimate Husker Tailgate Party! We’ll watch the game on a giant screen, meet and greet with Johnny Rodgers and cheer the huskers onto victory!  The park opens at 5.

Community Safety and Wellness Festival – 10/7, 11am-4pm

  • Community Safety & Wellness Festival held at Embassy Suites LaVista provides fun, educational, family friendly entertainment and seminars for all ages.  Food, FREE books, FREE entertainment, interactive exhibits and prizes!  Enjoy The Amazing Arthur, Jered the Incredible, Face Painting, Balloon Artistry, Stilt Walking, Airbrush Tattooing, Strolling Magic and Celebrity Mascots.  Thanks Omaha Area Kiddie Fun!

Papillion’s First Annual Kite Fly – 10/7, 12-4pm

  • This free fun-filled day will include demonstrations from the American Kitefliers Association, areas for the public to fly their own kites and candy drops for the kids all throughout the afternoon.  Bring your lawn chair and your kite for a fun day flying the skies of Papillion.  This will be held at the Recreation Activity Fields, 1100 W. Lincoln Street, Papillion, NE.

Highlights of Upcoming National Events

Home Depot Free Kids Workshop – 10/6, 9am-12pm
  • Home Depot offers FREE kid’s workshops on the first Saturday of each month, from 9am-12pm. They are designed for children ages 5-12. Workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills, tool safety and instill a sense of pride and accomplishment. All kids get to keep their craft and receive a FREE Kids Workshop Apron, commemorative pin and certificate of achievement.
    • Saturday, October 6, 2012 – Fire Truck

Star Wars Reads Day at Barnes and Noble – 10/6

  • Join us for readings, crafts, activities, Star Wars character events, author visits and more.

Star Wars Reads Day at Pottery Barn Kids Stores Nationwide – 10/6, 10am

  • We will read Star Wars books and have fun activities, giveaways, trivia, and more (while supplies last).  Dress-up encouraged!  Free event.

Marcus Theatres POP 3D Family Film Series – 10/6, 10am; 10/7, 11am

  •  Throughout October, Marcus Theatres is offering four weeks of family-friendly 3D movies for only $3!  The POP 3D Family Film Series will feature favorites Saturdays at 10am and Sundays at 11am.  Additionally, enjoy these concession specials: 46oz Popcorn or 14oz Sodas for Only $2 Each!  In the Omaha area, this includes 20 Grand, Twin Creek in Bellevue, and Village Pointe.
    • October 6-7: Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’hoole

Planning Ahead

Shadow Lake Towne Center Kids Club – 10/11, 10:30-11:30am – FULL

Marcus Theatres POP 3D Family Film Series – 10/13, 10am; 10/14, 11am

  • October 13-14: Dolphin Tale
  • Lowe’s offers free Build and Grow clinics every other Saturday at 10am. Bring the kids to any Lowe’s store to build fun projects. This is recommended for children in grades 1st-5th. Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.
    • Ghoul Bus – Oct 13, 2012
Harry Potter Halloween – 10/13, 7pm
  • Select Barnes & Noble stores will host a Harry Potter Halloween Party for ages 7 to 16 on Saturday, October 13. Dress up as your favorite Harry Potter character and join us for a scavenger hunt and costume contest.
  • One Sky, One World Fly at the LaVista Soccer Complex, just South of 66th & Harrison Streets.
  • We’ve got a full day of printing planned just for you.  Stop by and visit the new exhibition “Under Pressure,” and enjoy a day of art-making and gallery fun with friends and family.
  •  This family friendly event is FREE and open to the public, and will be held at District 1 Station, 8110 Park View Blvd in LaVista.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Free Family Events 8/9-8/19

A graphic that reads, Upcoming Free Family Events.

The weekend is almost here, and there are many free (or almost free) fun family activities both locally and nationally to enjoy!  Be sure to visit the Event Calendar (or the calendar list view on the right of this page) for more information on ALL of the free activities coming up!  It is always a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.

Don’t miss:

Highlights of Upcoming Local Events

  • Shadow Lake Towne Center offers Kids Club, a FREE hour of fun for children. A different activity is featured in a different store / restaurant each month. Register early since these tend to fill-up quickly!
    • Thursday, August 9th – 10:30am at the SprayGround, featuring live entertainment by the String Beans.
  • Follow the yellow brick road to Borsheims at Regency to see The Wizard of Oz film for FREE with your family.  To attend, RSVP to [email protected] Snacks are permitted, you bring your own chairs and enter through Borsheims.  In addition to seeing the movie, you’ll meet Wizard of Oz characters who are making a special trip from The Omaha Children’s Museum to Regency Court!  Arrival begins at 5pm.  Movie starts at 6pm.

The Rainbow at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts 

  • Current drought conditions throughout the Midwest have been called the worst in a generation. Due to The Rainbow’s dependence on rainwater, planned twice daily rainbow events have been scaled back.  Check here for updated schedule.
  • July 12th – August 16th.  Thursdays, Venue opens at 5 PM, Concert starts at 7 pm.
Free Outdoor Activities at Gene Leahy Mall – Mondays – Thursdays until 9/27
  • The Omaha Downtown Improvement District Association (DID) will offer FREE activities and mini events all summer at the Gene Leahy Mall! Activities will be held from 5:30-6:30 p.m., Mondays-Thursdays during the months of May, June, August and September at 14th & Farnam Streets.
    • Mondays – Family Fun
    • Tuesdays & Thursdays – Boot Camp Exercise Classes
    • Wednesdays – Arts & Culture
  • All concerts and movies this summer will begin at 7 pm, and take place outdoors at the La Vista Public Library, 9110 Giles Road.
    • August 10th – Bluehouse / Three Musketeers
  • Omaha Performing Arts brings back Cox Music & Movies! Enjoy live music from some of the area’s hottest bands followed by a classic movie, all in the Holland Center Courtyard. Venue opens at 7:30pm, music starts at 7:45pm, and movies begin at dusk. This will be held on the Holland Center East Lawn, at 12th & Douglas Streets. FREE and OPEN to the public!  A menu of à la carte items will be available the day of the show. Blankets and chairs welcome. No pets or outside food permitted. PLEASE NOTE: This is a rain or shine event. Event will move to the covered arrival plaza (directly next to the courtyard) in the case of rain.
    • August 10 – Raiders of the Lost Ark
  • Gates open at 7:30 with cartoons starting as soon as the sun sets. The feature movie starts at twilight.  Before each Movie 7:45 – 8:45 Sumtur Amphitheater hosts SHOW US WHAT YOU GOT PAPILLION! Four 15 minute slots per night to show your stuff. One winner each night moves on to the finals August 10th for a $250 winner-takes-all grand prize. Sing, Dance, Play an Instrument, Tell Jokes.  All forms of family entertainment welcome.
    • Puss In Boots – 8/10
  • Hey kids, before the bell rings for your first class this school year, visit Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo on Saturday, August 11, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for one last hurrah. Get in the school spirit by hanging out with local mascots while learning at the Zoo without sitting at a desk.  Event activities are free to Omaha’s Zoo members or with regular paid Zoo admission.

Midtown Crossing Monday Night at the Movies – 8/13

  • Weekly inspirational sports-themed movies will be shown in Turner Park.  The movies are free and open to the public and sponsored by Marcus Midtown Cinema.  Grab your blanket, enjoy some popcorn, sit back and relax as we laugh, cry and become inspired all summer long!  Movie starts at dark.
    • August 13, 2012 – Miracle(2004)
  • The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission sponsors Family Fishing Events across the state where people of all ages can learn to fish!  Look for the Family Fishing Trailer where loaner rods and reels, bait, and fishing instruction are available free to participants.
    • 8/15 – Halleck Park, Papillion, 6-8pm
  • FREE, Fun Events All Summer Long! Bring your family and enjoy Summer Nights on Wednesday evenings at the Kroc Center, 6:30-8pm.  Meet new people and have fun with your children while enjoying a new free activity each week.  Kroc Center members and non-members are all invited to join the fun!
    • 8/15 Rainbows and Promises
  • The event features a parade, pancake feed, pet show, art in the park, activities for children, entertainment, food, and fun. The club also sponsors a luncheon, music program, and bingo at the Senior Center.
  • Special evening for children with Autism and their families. The museum has worked with UNMC to create an appropriate environment.  Sponsored by Autism Action Partnership, this event is free for autistic children and their families.

 

Highlights of Upcoming National Events

  • Lowe’s offers free Build and Grow clinics every other Saturday at 10am and Sunday at 2pm. Bring the kids to any Lowe’s store to build fun projects. This is recommended for children in grades 1st-5th.  Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.
    • Shrek Dragon Ride – 8/11, 10:00 AM
    • Shrek Dragon Ride – 8/12, 2:00 PM

Which event are you most looking forward to this weekend?

Free Family Events 8/2-8/12

A graphic that reads, Upcoming Free Family Events.

The weekend is almost here, and there are many free (or almost free) fun family activities both locally and nationally to enjoy!  Be sure to visit the Event Calendar (or the calendar list view on the right of this page) for more information on ALL of the free activities coming up!  It is always a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.

Don’t miss:

Highlights of Upcoming Local Events

Kindergarten Traffic Training – 8/1-8/3

  • The Omaha Police Department will host the 60th Annual Kindergarten Traffic Training at Westroads Mall 8/1-8/3, 10am – 3pm, at the Upper Level near the Children’s Play Area.  The training is provided at no cost to participants. All parents having children entering elementary school for the first time are urged to participate, and each child that completes Kindergarten Traffic Training will receive a FREE admission pass to Rave Cinemas – Westroads 14 + D-Box!

The Rainbow at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts 

  • Current drought conditions throughout the Midwest have been called the worst in a generation. Due to The Rainbow’s dependence on rainwater, planned twice daily rainbow events have been scaled back.  Check here for updated schedule.
  • July 12th – August 16th.  Thursdays, Venue opens at 5 PM, Concert starts at 7 pm.
Free Outdoor Activities at Gene Leahy Mall – Mondays – Thursdays until 9/27
  • The Omaha Downtown Improvement District Association (DID) will offer FREE activities and mini events all summer at the Gene Leahy Mall! Activities will be held from 5:30-6:30 p.m., Mondays-Thursdays during the months of May, June, August and September at 14th & Farnam Streets.
    • Mondays – Family Fun
    • Tuesdays & Thursdays – Boot Camp Exercise Classes
    • Wednesdays – Arts & Culture
  • No sales tax, including local option sales tax, will be collected on sales of an article of clothing or footwear having a selling price less than $100.00.
  • Held the first Friday of each month, 6-9pm, First Friday is a free event celebrating local creativity in Omaha’s most historic neighborhood.  They are also offering free parking and free rides on Ollie the Trolley, 6-9pm. Nebraska at the Market, 1215 Leavenworth, is generously offering their 60 parking spaces for free. Park there and start your walking tour or hop aboard the trolley to circulate the neighborhood.
  • Learn what makes sharks so cool at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo in celebration of Shark Week on 8/4 and 8/5 from 9am-3pm.  There will be special Keeper Question and Answer sessions, a shark feeding at 1:30 p.m. (Saturday only) and educational activities.  Event activities are free to Omaha’s Zoo members or with regular paid Zoo admission.
  • Coming to Oak View Mall, Saturday, August 4th ~ Back-to-School Kids Fest. A free 3-hour family event for families with children 2-12 years old, with a back-to-school theme. Includes music, dancing, crafts, games, face painting and prizes. August 4th, 1-4 pm, Lower Level Younkers Court.
  • Bring your kids and golf for free!  There will also be free hot dogs, chips, pop, bounce house, and climbing wall.
    • 8/4 – Warren Swigart Golf Course, 3-5pm
  • Free Event from 9pm-11:30pm!  Join us as we take a closer look at Mars underneath the night sky. This is also an opportunity to look at the planet Saturn and other spectacular objects through a number of powerful telescopes.  If you haven’t had the opportunity to check out our Suited For Space and Great Balls of Fire exhibits, now is your chance!
  • Spend your afternoon from 1-4pm hopping from station to station – gathering facts and making art along the way – during this free, fun day inspired by trains and travel. Be sure to visit the exhibitions inspiring the day: The Great West Illustrated and Contested Terrain.  Enjoy art-making, music, and more during an afternoon of free admission at the Museum!

Midtown Crossing Monday Night at the Movies – 8/6

  • Weekly inspirational sports-themed movies will be shown in Turner Park.  The movies are free and open to the public and sponsored by Marcus Midtown Cinema.  Grab your blanket, enjoy some popcorn, sit back and relax as we laugh, cry and become inspired all summer long!  Movie starts at dark.
    • August 6, 2012 – The Blind Side
  • FREE, Fun Events All Summer Long! Bring your family and enjoy Summer Nights on Wednesday evenings at the Kroc Center, 6:30-8pm.  Meet new people and have fun with your children while enjoying a new free activity each week.  Kroc Center members and non-members are all invited to join the fun!
    • 8/8 – Omaha Conservatory of Music performance featuring the Frontier String Ensemble — enjoy great music and find out about free music lessons for children starting in the Fall!
  • Shadow Lake Towne Center offers Kids Club, a FREE hour of fun for children. A different activity is featured in a different store / restaurant each month. Register early since these tend to fill-up quickly!
    • Thursday, August 9th – 10:30am at the SprayGround, featuring live entertainment by the String Beans.
  • Follow the yellow brick road to Borsheims at Regency to see The Wizard of Oz film for FREE with your family.  To attend, RSVP to [email protected] Snacks are permitted, you bring your own chairs and enter through Borsheims.  In addition to seeing the movie, you’ll meet Wizard of Oz characters who are making a special trip from The Omaha Children’s Museum to Regency Court!  Arrival begins at 5pm.  Movie starts at 6pm.
  • All concerts and movies this summer will begin at 7 pm, and take place outdoors at the La Vista Public Library, 9110 Giles Road.
    • August 10th – Bluehouse / Three Musketeers
  • Omaha Performing Arts brings back Cox Music & Movies! Enjoy live music from some of the area’s hottest bands followed by a classic movie, all in the Holland Center Courtyard. Venue opens at 7:30pm, music starts at 7:45pm, and movies begin at dusk. This will be held on the Holland Center East Lawn, at 12th & Douglas Streets. FREE and OPEN to the public!  A menu of à la carte items will be available the day of the show. Blankets and chairs welcome. No pets or outside food permitted. PLEASE NOTE: This is a rain or shine event. Event will move to the covered arrival plaza (directly next to the courtyard) in the case of rain.
    • August 10 – Raiders of the Lost Ark
  • Gates open at 7:30 with cartoons starting as soon as the sun sets. The feature movie starts at twilight.  Before each Movie 7:45 – 8:45 Sumtur Amphitheater hosts SHOW US WHAT YOU GOT PAPILLION! Four 15 minute slots per night to show your stuff. One winner each night moves on to the finals August 10th for a $250 winner-takes-all grand prize. Sing, Dance, Play an Instrument, Tell Jokes.  All forms of family entertainment welcome.
    • Puss In Boots – 8/10
  • Hey kids, before the bell rings for your first class this school year, visit Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo on Saturday, August 11, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for one last hurrah. Get in the school spirit by hanging out with local mascots while learning at the Zoo without sitting at a desk.  Event activities are free to Omaha’s Zoo members or with regular paid Zoo admission.

 

Highlights of Upcoming National Events

  • Home Depot offers FREE kid’s workshops on the first Saturday of each month, from 9am-12pm. They are designed for children ages 5-12. Workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety.  All participants will receive a Kids Workshop Apron, commemorative pin and certificate of achievement.
    • 8/4 – Build a Cork Bulletin Board
  • Free event at 3pm!  Let us inspire you with fun, easy, and healthy lunch ideas for your kids!  Join us at our store for expert tips, recipes, and games that will make mealtime less hectic and a lot more fun.
  • National Night Out is an annual nationwide event that encourages residents to hold a block party, get to know their neighbors, build community, and promote crime prevention.  See information for Omaha here.
  • Lowe’s offers free Build and Grow clinics every other Saturday at 10am and Sunday at 2pm. Bring the kids to any Lowe’s store to build fun projects. This is recommended for children in grades 1st-5th.  Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.
    • Shrek Dragon Ride – 8/11, 10:00 AM
    • Shrek Dragon Ride – 8/12, 2:00 PM

Which event are you most looking forward to this weekend?

Free Family Events 7/26-8/5

The weekend is almost here, and there are many free (or almost free) fun family activities both locally and nationally to enjoy!  Be sure to visit the Event Calendar (or the calendar list view on the right of this page) for more information on ALL of the free activities coming up!  It is always a good idea to verify with the business before visiting.

Don’t miss:
Highlights of Upcoming Local Events

The Rainbow at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts 

  • Current drought conditions throughout the Midwest have been called the worst in a generation. Due to The Rainbow’s dependence on rainwater, planned twice daily rainbow events have been scaled back. The next rainbow events are scheduled for 7:30 pm on Thursday, July 26, Friday, July 27 and Saturday, July 28.  Check here for updated schedule.
  • July 12th – August 16th.  Thursdays, Venue opens at 5 PM, Concert starts at 7 pm.
Free Outdoor Activities at Gene Leahy Mall – Mondays – Thursdays until 9/27
  • The Omaha Downtown Improvement District Association (DID) will offer FREE activities and mini events all summer at the Gene Leahy Mall! Activities will be held from 5:30-6:30 p.m., Mondays-Thursdays during the months of May, June, August and September at 14th & Farnam Streets.
    • Mondays – Family Fun
    • Tuesdays & Thursdays – Boot Camp Exercise Classes
    • Wednesdays – Arts & Culture
  • Enjoy a free movie under the stars at the beautiful Sumtur Amphitheater.  Starlight Movie Series features entertainment for the whole family.  Gates open at 7:30 with cartoons starting as soon as the sun sets.  The feature movie starts at twilight.
  • FREE event – Friday, July 27th, 7:00-9:00 pm.  Come join the Library and the Community Center with this fun event of live music with The String Beans and making s’mores!
Benson Days – 7/27-7/29
  • Celebrating 125th anniversary with concert, fireworks, pancake breakfast, parade, and street festival.
OPL Summer Reading Final Parties – 7/27-7/31, various locations
  • Celebrate the Omaha Public Library’s Summer Reading Program with a Finale Parties.

4th Annual Beach Party Courtesy of Fat Brain Toys – 7/27

  • Join us for our 4th Annual Free Beach Party from 5-7pm.  18 tons of beach sand will be in front of Fat Brain Toys at Village Pointe South.  We will have plenty of sand carving tools on hand and sand molds.  Build sand castles and have wonderful water fun.  Free snow cones.  Courtesy of Fat Brain Toys.

Farmer Appreciation Day at Village Pointe Farmers Market – 7/28

  • Honor our local farmers with a celebration of their hard work and dedication. Come visit this Saturday, July 28th, from 8am-1pm, and say “thanks” to those who bring us food and join in free festivities for the whole family.

Free Family Fishing – 7/28

  • GO FISHING OMAHA provides free family fishing and fun!  Be sure to pack plenty of water, sun screen, and lunch. Poles, worms, and other equipment provided!
    • July 28 – Walnut Grove 9-12pm
  • loom’s annual multicultural festival is free fun for all ages.  The spontaneous multicultural festival atmosphere features music and dance, body painting, live art, yoga, dance performances and a variety of other artful expressions.  Food may be purchased outside at Joslyn’s grill until 8 pm; Cash bar available ’til 10:30 p.m. Bringing food is allowed, but please, no outside alcohol.  Rain Date: Sunday, July 29th.

Playing With Fire Omaha -7/28

  • Free Live Music on July 28th, at Lewis and Clark Landing.  Gates open at 4pm.

Midtown Crossing Monday Night at the Movies – 7/30

  • Weekly inspirational sports-themed movies will be shown in Turner Park.  The movies are free and open to the public and sponsored by Marcus Midtown Cinema.  Grab your blanket, enjoy some popcorn, sit back and relax as we laugh, cry and become inspired all summer long!  Movie starts at dark.
    • July 30, 2012 – Remember the Titans (Disney)
  • La Vista Central Park will be the place to escape from the summer heat, next Tuesday, July 31, beginning at 3 pm.  Children are invited to bring their friends to this free event, where squirt guns, water balloons and other water toys are encouraged. Also, enjoy a popsicle and dry off while playing at the park. You bring the squirt gun and we’ll provide the water!  Central Park is located on Edgewood Boulevard, a half mile north of Giles Road.  This free event, part of La Vista’s Summer Escapes series, does not require registration.
  • Member Appreciation Days are fun-filled ways for Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo to say thank you for the support throughout the year. Events include Feeding and Enrichment, Discounts on Food and Gift Shops, Entertainment and Events, and Behind the Scenes!  Event activities are free to Omaha’s Zoo members or with regular paid Zoo admission.  (We went last week, and the Behind the Scenes tours are fantastic!)
  • FREE, Fun Events All Summer Long! Bring your family and enjoy Summer Nights on Wednesday evenings at the Kroc Center, 6:30-8pm.  Meet new people and have fun with your children while enjoying a new free activity each week.  Kroc Center members and non-members are all invited to join the fun!
    • 8/1 Forts and Bubbles
  • The Omaha Children’s Museum and Westroads Mall invite you to play. learn. together. at the Westroads Mall Kid’s Club, held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30am – 11:30am on the Upper Level near the Children’s Play Area.  August 1st will feature Science in Action: Weather.
  • The Omaha Police Department will host the 60th Annual Kindergarten Traffic Training at Westroads Mall 8/1-8/3, 10am – 3pm, at the Upper Level near the Children’s Play Area.  The training is provided at no cost to participants. All parents having children entering elementary school for the first time are urged to participate, and each child that completes Kindergarten Traffic Training will receive a FREE admission pass to Rave Cinemas – Westroads 14 + D-Box!
  • Held the first Friday of each month, 6-9pm, First Friday is a free event celebrating local creativity in Omaha’s most historic neighborhood.  They are also offering free parking and free rides on Ollie the Trolley, 6-9pm. Nebraska at the Market, 1215 Leavenworth, is generously offering their 60 parking spaces for free. Park there and start your walking tour or hop aboard the trolley to circulate the neighborhood.
  • Learn what makes sharks so cool at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo in celebration of Shark Week on 8/4 and 8/5 from 9am-3pm.  There will be special Keeper Question and Answer sessions, a shark feeding at 1:30 p.m. (Saturday only) and educational activities.  Event activities are free to Omaha’s Zoo members or with regular paid Zoo admission.
  • Coming to Oak View Mall, Saturday, August 4th ~ Back-to-School Kids Fest. A free 3-hour family event for families with children 2-12 years old, with a back-to-school theme. Includes music, dancing, crafts, games, face painting and prizes. August 4th, 1-4 pm, Lower Level Younkers Court.
  • Bring your kids and golf for free!  There will also be free hot dogs, chips, pop, bounce house, and climbing wall.
    • 8/4 – Warren Swigart Golf Course, 3-5pm
  • Spend your afternoon from 1-4pm hopping from station to station – gathering facts and making art along the way – during this free, fun day inspired by trains and travel. Be sure to visit the exhibitions inspiring the day: The Great West Illustrated and Contested Terrain.  Enjoy art-making, music, and more during an afternoon of free admission at the Museum!
Highlights of Upcoming National Events
  • Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, from now through July 28th.  Each day, they will be focusing on a different country and doing a special craft.  Most of the projects are free, except for a few that require a purchase.  Each program is from 1-4pm, or while supplies last, and is geared for ages 3 and up.  It is always a good idea to verify with your favorite location before visiting.
  • Lowe’s offers free Build and Grow clinics every other Saturday at 10am and Sunday at 2pm. Bring the kids to any Lowe’s store to build fun projects. This is recommended for children in grades 1st-5th.  Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.
    • Kung Fu Panda Stacking Friends – 7/28, 10:00am
    • Kung Fu Panda Stacking Friends – 7/29, 2:00pm
  • Home Depot offers FREE kid’s workshops on the first Saturday of each month, from 9am-12pm. They are designed for children ages 5-12. Workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety.  All participants will receive a Kids Workshop Apron, commemorative pin and certificate of achievement.
    • 8/4 – Build a Cork Bulletin Board
  • Free event at 3pm!  Let us inspire you with fun, easy, and healthy lunch ideas for your kids!  Join us at our store for expert tips, recipes, and games that will make mealtime less hectic and a lot more fun.
Which event are you most looking forward to this weekend?

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Family Fun in Omaha

Family Fun in Omaha is your local resource for family-friendly activities and events in Omaha! Created by a local Mom who loves finding new adventures with her family and wants to help you enjoy all that Omaha has to offer. We recommend starting here. Thank you for visiting!

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