Summers in Nebraska mean a time to get outside and celebrate. The state does a great job of keeping its residents entertained from June through September, when the bulk of the festivals are scheduled. Omaha has the most to offer with everything from blues to rodeos. The majority of Nebraska holidays are geared toward families, and often include a carnival, tasty food and live music.

Central Nebraska Ethnic Festival

Downtown Grand Island is the setting for Nebraska’s biggest ethnic festival, celebrating the roots of the pioneers and homesteaders who settled the state. For a long three-day weekend each June the streets turn into a giant party with music, dancing, food, and drinks. The German contingent is the most evident, but you can count on Scandinavian, Hispanic, and Asian groups, as well.

Omaha Summer Arts Festival

Omaha’s downtown district is transformed into an outdoor street party every June as art becomes the focus of the city. More than 100 artists converge to show off their work. Live music plays in the background and plenty of kiddie fun is on hand to ensure the youngsters get to express their artistic inclinations.

Omaha Riverfront Jazz & Blues Festival

The scenic Lewis & Clark Landing along the banks of the Missouri River in downtown Omaha is an ideal venue for live music. Blues and jazz performers from around Nebraska and the larger Midwest region come down every July for a few days of outdoor fun by the river. It’s a great event for music lovers, backed by plenty of tasty festival food and drinks.

Septemberfest

A four-day extravaganza that happens every September in Nebraska is often voted one of America’s top city festivals. The spacious Qwest Arena becomes a playground for kids and adults alike with a comprehensive program of events. From a circus to air show, there is live music, a parade, a kid’s adventure land and massive fireworks displaya that encourage everyone to cut loose with the family.

River City Roundup

One of the highlights of Omaha’s calendar is this fantastic festival that combines a state fair, rodeo and carnival into one hugely popular event. The Qwest Arena is the venue for all kinds of activities that celebrate Nebraska’s heritage. A livestock show, rides and concerts are just the beginning. There is also a parade, loads of food and fun Western-themed events at the Roundup every September.