Music floats in the breeze in all corners of the city this summer as Omaha hits a high note with a handful of signature live music festivals, events, and music series. Read on for this summer’s must-have musical experiences and begin planning your summer itinerary filled with the sweet sounds of jazz, blues, rock and roll, and more.
Maha Festival
The 15th annual Maha Festival takes over Aksarben Village July 28-29, 2023. The music-heavy event is a two-day affair with shopping, comedy, community booths, and food and drink options sandwiched in between. Fifteen national, regional and local artists/bands will take to the festival’s two stages, and this year’s lineup includes Big Thief, Turnstile, Alvvays, Peach Pit, The Beths, and Ekkstacy.
Outlandia Music Festival
August 11 & 12, the outdoor music fest Outlandia features a lineup including indie notables such as Lord Huron, Modest Mouse, Jimmy Eat World, Cat Power and Manchester Orchestra, along with Omaha indie breakouts The Faint and The Good Life. Camping is available on site.
City of Omaha Celebrates America
The popular free summer concert at Memorial Park returns June 30 with another stellar set list featuring headliner Melissa Etheridge and Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone. The musical evening culminates with a fireworks show at 10pm sharp.
Credit: Advanced Aerial Solutions
Omaha Jazz Experience
Grammy jazz saxophonist Najee will headline this year’s concert in Stinson Park on July 22, 2023, with Brian Simpson and Steve Oliver also hitting the stage.
Jazz on the Green
A beloved Omaha tradition, Jazz on the Green presents free concerts every Thursday from July 6 to August 10 in 2023. Bring your blankets, chairs, leashed pets, bug spray, charcuterie fixings, and beer and wine, and settle in for an evening of cool music. Enhance your visit with refreshments from a nearby business and check out the Sunny & Chair art pieces on display throughout the park.
In The Market for Blues Festival
Take in fourteen hours of blues music during Omaha’s annual blues festival on August 5, 2023. From noon to 2am, over ten venues will host musicians during this non-stop blues fest in Omaha’s Old Market Entertainment District.
Playing with Fire
Enjoy the city views and summer vibes during this free Friday/Saturday night music series in Midtown Crossing on July 15 & 16 and August 12 & 13.
Tempo of Twilight
Music and nature intertwine to create a magical evening of entertainment at Omaha’s botanical gardens, Lauritzen Gardens. Guests are invited to bring chairs, blankets, and their own food and beverage to round out their experience.
Music Series
More intimate, free outdoor live concerts can be found in all corners of the city in the summertime. Music returns to North Omaha with Music at Miller Park. Aksarben Village comes to life with Saturdays at Stinson Park. Vibes Summer Concert Series at Village Pointe Shopping Center is on Thursday nights. Live on the Lawn at Gene Leahy Mall and Zorinsky Lake Park features live music every Friday in July beginning July 7.
From Pink to Chris Stapleton, find info on more concerts and festivals happening in Omaha this summer here.
