Enjoy so much FUN this FALL with this helpful guide of all of the best fall events in Omaha!
We do our best to share current information in Family Fun in Omaha, but event details may change. It is always a good idea to verify the information before visiting.
Things to Do in Omaha this Fall with Kids
Events
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Inaugural Heartland Plein Air Festival
Omaha, NE Omaha, NEAll week-long painting events are free and open to the public. Artists will be working at locations throughout Douglas and Sarpy Counties — follow along on social media for daily location updates. There's no velvet rope. No admission fee. Just artists at work, and you're invited to watch.
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Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Oakview Mall 3001 S 144th St, Omaha, NEJoin in honoring culture, history, and community. Traditional Music & Dance, Authentic Latin Cuisine, Cultural Exhibits & Art, Pop-Up Store.
Free -
The ACN 2026 Food Truck Festival
Autism Center of Nebraska 9012 Q St, Omaha, NEThe 2026 ACN Food Truck Festival will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026. This event will be free and open to the public. This is a moment to gather and celebrate the local autism community. Watch this space for more information as the date approaches. Committed Food Trucks for this event are Chaima’s, Omahalette, Snow Daze Shaved Ice, and Chef Jeremy McCoy.
Free -
Fall Equinox Celebration
Camp Brewster 1313 Bellevue Blvd. North, Bellevue, NE, United StatesJoin for a short, guided hike at Camp Brewster as we search for signs of seasonal changes in the Forest. After the hike, we will have a family-friendly craft to celebrate the equinox. To end our night, we will make a bonfire and have s'mores around the fire. Please remember to check the weather and dress accordingly.
$15 – $25 [REGISTER] -
Out & About Storytime at Nelson Produce Farm
Nelson Produce Farm 10505 N 234 St, Valley, NEJoin Bennington Public Library for an Out & About Storytime at Nelson Produce Farm! You MUST show your Bennington Public Library Card at admissions for free entrance.
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Spooky Glow Painting
Millard Branch 13214 Westwood Ln., Omaha, NE, United StatesCreate a spooky canvas using glow-in-the-dark paint and seasonal stencils. All supplies provided. This is a free event for kids ages 8-12. Registration is required
Free [REGISTER] -
Croctoberfest
Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium 3701 S. 10th Street, Omaha, NE, United StatesThere's Oktoberfest. Then there's Croctoberfest. And this one is just for the 21+ crowd. Pick your experience with General Admission or VIP Prost! With the Most and Prost! With the Most Plus, grab a stein, and explore the Zoo's crocodilians and nine-member alligator family in a new light. Take your Oktoberfest to the swamp. Stay Wild.
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Full Moon Hike: Harvest Moon
Fontenelle Forest Nature Center 1111 Bellevue Blvd, Bellevue, NE, United StatesHave you ever wondered what the Forest looks like after the sun goes down? Now you can find out at our Full Moon Hikes! Come on an evening hike with us and experience the Forest under the light of the moon. This program will include an educational discussion of the nocturnal animals around the Forest and a brief talk about the lore of full moons. The guided hike will proceed after the discussion. After the hike, please join us for a seasonal snack.
$15 – $25 [REGISTER] -
Bennington Founder’s Day
Centennial Park 15501 Warehouse St, Bennington, NE, United StatesThere will be events all day long in Centennial Park, Downtown Bennington. Events will be from 9am - 7pm. Events Include: BBQ Contest, Farmers Market, Cornhole contest, Live Music, Petting Zoo, Bounce Houses, Kids Activities and more!
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Pancakes in the Park
La Vista Central Park Clubhouse 8305 Park View Blvd, La Vista, NEEnjoy a cozy fall morning with us during Pancakes in the Park. Start your day off right by filling up on a free breakfast, along with hot coffee and juice, served by The Pancake Man. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy crisp October air, colorful leaves and quality time with friends and neighbors. Come hungry and ready to soak up some autumn vibes and community spirit!
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Apple Tasting
Gretna Public Library 736 South St, Gretna, NEThey have a new batch of apples to taste and rate this year, generously donated by Vala's Apple Orchard! Come for fresh fruit and lots of other fun for the whole family! Drop in anytime. No library card or registration required.
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Oktoberfest
La Vista City Centre 8219 City Centre Dr, La Vista, NE, United StatesJoin for a traditional Oktoberfest celebration with a modern-day twist in City Centre! Main Street will be closed to make way for music, Oktoberfest-themed games and activities, food trucks, and of course a beer garden. Live music will be provided by local bands Evans & Moore, Kenny Janak Orchestra and Charm School Dropouts. Food and beverage available for purchase. Best dressed contest, beer stein holding contest, cornhole and more.
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Spooky Diamond Painting (Teens)
Bess Johnson Elkhorn Branch 2100 Reading Plaza, Elkhorn, NE, United StatesAdd some sparkle to your spooky season with diamond painting at the library! Create your own dazzling keychain, magnet or drink coaster while swapping paranormal stories with others or listening to eerie tales from our staff.
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Pumpkin Decorating
A.V. Sorensen BranchTransform decorative pumpkins into BOO-tiful or SPOOK-tacular sights! It is encouraged to wear clothes and shoes that can get a little messy! This is a free event for kids ages 4-12. Registration is required
Free [REGISTER] -
Fall Mystic Fest 2026
Mid-America Center 1 Arena Way, Council Bluffs, IA, United StatesJoin for Nebraska’s largest gathering of mystics, seekers, and soul-healers. Enjoy readings from gifted Tarot and Astrology guides, energy healing, massage, aura photography, and a marketplace full of treasures like crystals, candles, jewelry, oils, clothing, incense, and more.
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Scoops & Smiles, a Kids 1K Fun Run
Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park East Side of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, Council Bluffs, IA, United States🍦🏃♀️ 🍨 A fun run + ice cream + helping local kids? That's a win-win-win! 🏃♂️🍦 Share My Smile and Tastee Treet are partnering for Scoops & Smiles, a Kids 1K Fun Run! A morning filled with laughter, smiles, ice cream, and making a difference for local foster and adoptive children! 💙💜
$20 -
All Things Pumpkin Spice!
Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center 1001 S 6th St, Council Bluffs, IAHang out with them while they take you through how to make a rockin Halloween get together! Learn how to make Pumpkin Spice Bars, Pumpkin Spice Lattes, and Pumpkin Scented Candles!
$30 [REGISTER] -
Modern Market Fall 2026 by A Local Collective
A Local Collective 302 N Front St, Waterloo, NE, United StatesJoin for the Fall edition of our semi-annual Modern Market, where Nebraska small shops steal the spotlight! Transforming downtown Waterloo into an open-air, feel-good celebration of local — packed with 60+ carefully curated small businesses, great food + drinks, music, and all the spring vibes. Whether you’re on the hunt for something new, treating yourself, or just soaking up a fun Saturday out… this is your sign.
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6th Annual Muddy Paws Rescue Wag-O-Ween Boo Bash
Shadow Lake Amphitheatre 7775 Olson Dr, Papillion, NE, United StatesJoin Muddy Paws Rescue for the 6th Annual Wag-O-Ween Boo Bash where there will be pumpkin painting, Kids crafts and activities, bounce house, crafts! Dog costume contest!!
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All Hallows Eve Festival
Botna Bend Park 42926 Mahogany Road, Hancock, IA, United StatesThis year's annual All Hallows Eve Festival at Botna Bend promises fun for the entire family including hayrack rides, hot dogs, and trick-or-treating! The public is invited to participate in fun fall activities hosted by Botna Bend Park staff and campers.
Free with Park Entry Fee -
10th Annual Porchfest
Gifford Park Neighborhood North 33rd & California, Omaha, NEThe 10th Annual Porchfest OMA is Sunday, October 4, 2026 from 11am to 6pm. The free community festival has over 90 performances that take place on 13 stages in Omaha’s Gifford Park Neighborhood at 33rd & California Street.
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Teen Hangout: Spooky Diamond Painting
Benson Branch 6015 Binney Street, Omaha, NE, United StatesAdd some sparkle to your spooky season with diamond painting at the library! Create your own dazzling keychain, magnet or drink coaster while swapping paranormal stories with others or listening to eerie tales from our staff.
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Out & About Storytime at Nelson Produce Farm
Nelson Produce Farm 10505 N 234 St, Valley, NEJoin Bennington Public Library for an Out & About Storytime at Nelson Produce Farm! You MUST show your Bennington Public Library Card at admissions for free entrance.
Free -
Spooky Glow Painting
Bess Johnson Elkhorn Branch 2100 Reading Plaza, Elkhorn, NE, United StatesCreate a spooky canvas using glow-in-the-dark paint and seasonal stencils. All supplies provided. This is a free event for kids ages 8-12. Registration is required
Free [REGISTER] -
Teen Hangout: Spooky Diamond Painting
Willa Cather Branch 1905 S 44th St, Omaha, NEAdd some sparkle to your spooky season with diamond painting at the library! Create your own dazzling keychain, magnet or drink coaster while swapping paranormal stories with others or listening to eerie tales from our staff.
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Pumpkin Decorating
Central Library 7205 Dodge St, Omaha, NETransform decorative pumpkins into BOO-tiful or SPOOK-tacular sights! It is encouraged to wear clothes and shoes that can get a little messy! This is a free event for kids ages 4-12. Registration is required.
Free [REGISTER] -
Costume Night at Cochran Park
Cochran Park 100 S 21st St, Council Bluffs, IAPut on your costumes and join us for the fourth annual Costume Night at Cochran Park (100 S 21st Street) on Friday, October 9, from 6-8 p.m. Free activities include: pumpkin painting, movie screening, balloon animals, glow kickball, soccer, football toss, basketball, pickleball, kan jam, and so much more
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Fall Arts and Crafts Show
Mid-America Center 1 Arena Way, Council Bluffs, IA, United StatesThe show is billed as one of Iowa's largest shows, with over 200 exhibitors presenting and selling thousands of unique, handmade products. Hours of the show are from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. on Saturday and 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. on Sunday. Admission is $6 and children 10 and younger are free. Parking is free throughout the show. All patrons who attend the show on Saturday will receive a two-day re-entry stamp.
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BPS Lied Activity Center Fall Craft Fair 2026
Lied Activity Center 2700 Arboretum Drive, Bellevue, NE, United StatesThe Lied Activity Center will be hosting our 19th craft fair for the Bellevue community on Saturday, October 10th, 2026, from 9am-3pm. It has grown to become one of the biggest fairs in Sarpy County, featuring over 230 booths. Join us for an amazing event, featuring local shops, tasty treats, and many talented artists! Admission fees support the BPS Lied Activity Center. Adults $5.
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Brunch & Learn – UFOs
Baright Public Library 5555 South 77th St, Ralston, NE, United StatesThis presentation is a beginners guide to understanding the UFO phenomena, with a specific focus on local cases and eyewitness accounts. Brian J. Corey of the Necronomicast will cover all things alien, from early reported accounts to famous cases throughout history. Brunch will be provided, so come hungry!
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Heartwood Fall Festival
Heartwood Park 301 S 145th St, Omaha, NECelebrate the best of autumn at Heartwood’s 2nd Annual Fall Festival. The park fills with festive activities including pumpkin decorating, giant pumpkin carving demonstration, a petting zoo, themed crafts, all the seasonal treats and a lively craft fair. Bring the whole family for some classic fall fun.
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Halloween Boo Bash at Village Pointe
Village Pointe 17305 Davenport Street, Omaha, NE, United StatesGet ready for a spooktacular time at Village Pointe’s Halloween Boo Bash! Trick-or-Treating, Special Characters, balloon twisting, OPD SWAT and Cruiser Vehicles and more all along Davenport Street!
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Chili Fest
Arrowhead Park Neola, IABring the whole family out and enjoy a warm bowl of chili in the crisp fall air at the Arrowhead Park Chili Fest. This annual fall tradition promises fun for the whole family! Join for games, pumpkin painting, and of course, CHILI! hayrack ride trick or treating will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A $3/vehicle park entry fee or membership is required to enter the park. Free-will donations will be gratefully accepted. This event will be held rain or shine. Please meet at Breezy Lodge.
Free with Park Entry Fee -
Teen Hangout: Spooky Glow Painting
Charles B. Washington Branch 2868 Ames Avenue, Omaha, NE, United StatesJoin for a teen-only hangout where you can dive into crafts, try out games, explore cool hobbies, and chill with friends in a space full of music and good vibes. Come spark your imagination and discover something new! This is a free program for teens 13-18 years old.
Free [REGISTER] -
Beginner Embroidery: Halloween Edition
Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center 1001 S 6th St, Council Bluffs, IAGet into the Halloween spirit with this beginner friendly embroidery class! Learn the basics of hand embroidery as you create a festive Halloween themed design perfect for decorating your home or giving as a handmade gift. You'll practice simple stitches, build confidence with needle and thread, and leave with a spooky keepsake. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is needed. Snack, coffee, and water provided for this 3 hour class!
$15 [REGISTER] -
Heartwood Kite Festival
Heartwood Park 301 S 145th St, Omaha, NELook to the skies at Heartwood’s 2nd Annual Kite Festival. Giant show kites flown by professional kite artists will fill the air above the amphitheater in a breathtaking display of color and motion. Guests can learn kite-flying techniques, bring or purchase their own kites, or simply relax and watch the sky come alive. Festival foods and family activities make it a perfect day outdoors.
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Pumpkin Decorating
Florence Branch 2920 Bondesson St, Omaha, NE, United StatesTransform decorative pumpkins into BOO-tiful or SPOOK-tacular sights! It is encouraged to wear clothes and shoes that can get a little messy! This is a free event for kids ages 4-12. Registration is required.
Free [REGISTER] -
Teen Hangout: Spooky Diamond Painting
Central Library 7205 Dodge St, Omaha, NEAdd some sparkle to your spooky season with diamond painting at the library! Create your own dazzling keychain, magnet or drink coaster while swapping paranormal stories with others or listening to eerie tales from our staff. This is a free program for teens 12-18 years old. Registration is encouraged but not required.
Free [REGISTER] -
Spooky Diamond Painting (Teens)
Central Library 7205 Dodge St, Omaha, NEAdd some sparkle to your spooky season with diamond painting at the library! Create your own dazzling keychain, magnet or drink coaster while swapping paranormal stories with others or listening to eerie tales from our staff. This program is a free event for teens 13-18. Registration is required
Free [REGISTER] -
Pumpkin Decorating
Milton R. Abrahams Branch 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE, United StatesTransform decorative pumpkins into BOO-tiful or SPOOK-tacular sights! It is encouraged to wear clothes and shoes that can get a little messy! This is a free event for kids ages 4-12. Registration is required.
Free [REGISTER]
Go Apple Picking at an Apple Orchard
- Apple picking in Omaha is a favorite Fall tradition. Choose from a variety of apple orchards in the Omaha area to find the best apple picking near you!
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
- Discover 16 of the Best Pumpkin Patches near Omaha, and find where you can pick pumpkins, explore corn mazes, and go on hayrides near you.
Visit an Alpaca Farm – Reservations required
- Alpacas of the Heartland – Reservations required, $9-10/person donation
- Come out to the beautiful hills of Fort Calhoun, NE, and roam the pastures with the alpacas. See the crias (baby alpacas), receive carrots to feed the alpacas, relax and enjoy the picturesque views.
- Dates are announced on their FB page. Find out more here.
- Location: 7016 County Road 39, Fort Calhoun, NE.
Nebraska Passport Program – Runs through September 30, 2023.
- Go on a scavenger hunt across Nebraska (including several stops in the Omaha Area) and discover hidden gems. Free to participate.
Try a new place for Ice Cream
- Fall is perfect for sharing Ice Cream with friends – including the Tower, an old-fashioned Soda Fountain, and more!
Explore a Favorite Hiking or Walking Trail
- Venture on a hiking or walking trail in the Omaha area with kids!
- Some of our favorites include the Waterfall Trail at Platte River State Park and the scenic trails at Hitchcock Nature Center.
Go on a Family Getaway
- Choose from a variety of locations that are not too far from Omaha. Explore a new destination, go on an adventure, and create new memories!
- Day Trips, Road Trips, Cabins to Rent, and more!
Check out a Public Library Pass
Members of certain libraries can check out a pass to visit one of the following locations:
- Durham Museum – Members of all 12 Omaha Public Library branches, Bellevue Public Library, Bennington Public Library, Council Bluffs Public Library, Fremont Public Library.
- Fontenelle Forest – Members of the Omaha Public Library, Bellevue Public Library, or Council Bluffs Public Library.
- Lauritzen Gardens – Members of the Omaha Public Library, Bellevue Public Library, or Council Bluffs Public Library.
Enjoy a New Playground
- The Omaha Area is full of neighborhood parks with walking trails, playgrounds, swings, picnic areas, and more!
Buy local and fresh at an Area Farmers Market
- Several Farmer’s Markets continue through Labor Day weekend.
Get Out on the Water
- Rent a Kayak or Stand Up Paddleboard for a fun day out on the water.
Go On a Camping Trip
- Enjoy the outdoors with tips for 8 of the best places to go camping near Omaha.
Rent a Cabin Near Omaha this Fall
- Are you looking for the perfect cabin to rent within 3 hours of Omaha? Choose from many cabin rentals near Omaha that offer a variety of activities, family-friendly amenities, and a chance to enjoy the great outdoors!
10 Perfect Day Trips from Omaha
- Looking for a great Day Trip near Omaha? Check out these fun ideas for nearby adventures!
15 Exciting Road Trips from Omaha
- Looking for a little getaway with your family? Choose from a variety of Road Trip ideas that are not too far from Omaha. Explore a new destination, go on an adventure, and create new memories with your family!
Get Outdoors to Enjoy Beautiful Fall Weather
- Discover Outdoor Fun in the Omaha Area that provides a great option for active play outdoors including Hiking Trails, Footgolf, Mini Golf, Nature Centers and Zoos, Outdoor Play Centers, Parks, Playgrounds, Water Fun, and more!
We do our best to share current information in Family Fun in Omaha, but event details may change. It is always a good idea to verify the information before visiting.
Have a wonderful fun-filled fall season!
Join our growing community and keep updated on Omaha family-friendly events and activities and Sign up for our Free Email Newsletter!
Past Events
Aug 16-17th – Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival – Tickets Required
- Don’t miss this chance to Taste award-winning wines and See spectacular hot air balloons launch and glow (weather permitting) Plus! Live Entertainment with Omaha’s Best Bands, Helicopter Rides, Power Paramotor Gliders and Skydivers each evening!!
- Location: Ta-Ha-Zouka Park – Elkhorn, NE
Visit Nelson Produce Farm
- Autumn comes with an exhilarating excitement and crisp fall air at the farm! Pumpkin picking, hayrack rides, and our GIANT hay pyramid are just a few of the highlights along with over 50 varieties of Pumpkins! Make sure you grab an apple cider slushie, apple nachos, donuts and a warm drink made with homemade syrups and a donut from the Coffee Barn in our indoor market!
- Special Event Dates:
- Sunflower Festival: Aug. 24th – Sept 8th
- Truck & Tractor Days Festival: Sept. 14th & 15th
- Barnyard Boo Night: Oct 25th
Aug 31st – Sept 1st – Living History Weekend at Fort Atkinson State Historical Park – 10am-4pm – Park Permit Req
- Visitors will be able to glimpse the activities that would have taken place at this 1820’s era outpost.
- A valid Nebraska Park Entry Permit is required for all vehicles to enter the park and can be purchased at the site.
- Location: Fort Atkinson State Historical Park – 201 S. 7th St., Fort Calhoun, NE
Sept 6 – Nov 2nd – Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch
- Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch is a place to have fun with attractions for all ages. Family-owned and operated since 2008, it is their goal to help your family make a memory together that you’ll share for years. You are going to want to stock up on their famous kettle corn, caramel apples, and homemade fudge as well.
- Admission: $14.95 – $24.95 + tax
- See more Pumpkin Patches here!
Sept 7th – Monarch Tagging at Hitchcock Nature Center – 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm – $5/pp
- After learning about these amazing migrators, participants are invited to hit the trails with nets in search of monarch butterflies. Staff will show you how we tag and release them. You are welcome to bring your own butterfly net or use one of ours. This event will be held entirely outside.
- Location: Hitchcock Nature Center – 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, Iowa 51542
Sept 6th & 7th – Fields of Flight – 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. – Tickets Required
- Experience this amazing sight as hot air balloons take to the sky along with live music!
- Admission: $30+tax/car includes admission for all passengers. Pre-pay for parking.
- Location: Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard, 19475 225th St., Council Bluffs, IA.
Sept 14th – Flix at the Chef: IF – Movie Starts at Dusk – FREE
- The movie starts at dusk. Bring blankets or chairs to sit on. Food, drinks, and ice cream are for sale at Dairy Chef.
- Location: Dairy Chef – 3223 N. 204th St., Elkhorn, NE
Sept 19-30th – AppleJack Festival – Tickets strongly recommended
- The mother of all fruit-based festivities and ranked in the top 10 of fall festivals by the Society of American Travel Writers. Perfect for hipsters and hip replacement candidates alike, this is the festival most folks think of when they think “Nebraska City.” Fun for the whole family, including grouchy Aunt Edith.
- AppleJack activities take place throughout Nebraska City and include a parade downtown on Saturday, Sept. 21st at 1 p.m.
- Location: Nebraska City, NE.
- See more Apple Orchards here!
Sept 21st – Railroad Days – 9:00am-5:00pm – $10/person or $20/family Tickets
- Celebrate CB’s rich railroad heritage and place in history as historic Mile Zero for Union Pacific Railroad. There will be numerous train-themed activities and locations to visit.
- Kids will be excited to ride the trollies to each participating location and to take part in numerous hands-on activities with interactive technology and exhibits that explore the vast world of the railroad!
- Passes for the family event are $20 per group, which includes two adults and unlimited children under 18. An additional adult pass can be purchased for $10.
Sept 21st – Gifford Farm Fall Festival – 10:00am-3:00pm – $6/pp (under 2 free)
- The Fall Festival serves as a yearly community gathering and fundraiser for the farm. Attendees can experience a classic day at the farm, enjoying animal presentations, games, the Outdoor Nature Classroom, hay rides, interactions with special guest groups, clowns, music, food trucks, farmers market vendors, and various other activities.
- Location: Gifford Farm Education Center – 700 Camp Gifford Rd, Bellevue, NE
Sept 28th – Oct 27th (Sat & Sun) – Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze at Camp Fontanelle – Admission Fee
- Pick a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch and conquer the Kingdom Quest corn maze and enjoy farm activities.
- Special Event Dates:
- Search for Treats (Trick-or-Treat): Oct 20, 2:00-4:00pm
- The Maze at Night: Oct 25th & 26th
- Location: Camp Fontanelle, 9677 County Road 3, Fontanelle, NE
Oct 11-27th – Coraline at The Rose Theater – Tickets Required
- Based on Neil Gaiman’s frighteningly fun children’s novel and the luminous stop-motion animated film, this is the spooky musical spectacular perfect for the Halloween season.
- Tickets: $20/ticket, Free for Members
- Location: The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St., Omaha, NE.





