Things to Do in South Omaha

Explore the many flavors of South Omaha, home to ethnic cultures from across the globe. Polish, Czech, German and Mexican history lives on through the food, art and culture of the area.

The Tree of Life, near 24th and L streets, serves as a welcome to this historic area of Omaha. The symbols that hang from the branches represent themes which are cross-cultural and are shared in the design motifs found in artwork and architecture associated with South Omaha. The medallions include two separate images of birds, pottery, leaves, an apple, a sun face and a yin/yang face.

Walk South 24th Street and enjoy authentic cuisine at dozens of family-owned restaurants and explore folk art and pottery shops that line this historic area. Pick up an 8-layer torte at the Lithuanian Bakery or grab a Yo-Yo, a traditional Latino pastry at International Bakery.

From historic buildings and public art to ethnic festivals and live music, South Omaha's rich heritage is worth a visit. Read on to discover even more about this lively corner of Omaha.

Marvel at South Omaha Arts

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El Museo LatinoMurals and pottery shops, live music and street vendors, art and artistry live and breathe in South Omaha. Even the streets here are works of art. Vibrant colored tile designs line the sidewalks, benches and planters of this historic area helping to tell the story of the people who brought and continue to bring life to this district. Plaza de la Raza, or a “gathering place for the people,” provides a town square vibe and is home to live musical performances throughout the year.

El Museo Latino, the first Latino art and history museum in the Midwest, offers an intimate, culturally intensive experience filled with traveling exhibits, dance performances and educational programs.

Celebrate at South Omaha Festivals

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Cinco de MayoFrom Polish and Czech festivals packed with live polka music, dancing and dumplings to vibrant Mexican celebrations featuring mariachis, folk dancing and authentic food, South Omaha's rich ethnic heritage comes to life and fills the streets and neighborhoods of this colorful area.

South Omaha's Cinco de Mayo Festival is a spectacular event on Historic South 24th Street, bursting with live entertainment, authentic food and colorful dancers. Thanksgiving begins a month-long celebration with the Holiday Lights Festival. Twinkling lights line the historic streets and live musical performances capture the magic of the season.

November/December
Holiday Lights Festival
Various locations throughout South Omaha

As part of a city-wide celebration, the streets of historic South Omaha twinkle with thousands of holiday lights. Live music performances take place throughout the season at the Plaza del la Raza.

April
Czech-Slovak Festival
Sokol Community Center - 20th and U Streets

An indoor festival celebrating Czech and Slovak cultures and traditions. The one-day festival is filled with live music, traditional dress, vendors selling beautiful glass and jewelry, and plenty of Czech and Bohemian food.

May
Cinco de Mayo
Historic South 24th Street

A vibrant fiesta that includes live entertainment, traditional dancers, live music, authentic food, rides and a special area just for kids. The highlight is the Cinco De Mayor parade filled with colorful dancers, floats, marching bands and culture. Find more information at www.cincodemayoomaha.com.

August
St. Stanislaus Polish Festival
40th and J Streets

Held on the third Sunday of August, the festival is billed as the largest church festival in the city. Enjoy live Polish music and traditional dancers, homemade Polish food, games, rides and more.

September
El Grito de Independencia Festival
Plaza de la Raza - 24th St and N

A 2-day celebration of Mexican Independence that includes a Charro show, Mariachi and salsa dancing contests, food vendors, a beer garden, live music and much more.

Discover South Omaha History

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South Omaha StockyardsIn the late 1800s, this area became a meat packing hub and people from around the world flocked to the area to work. The growth of this area was so miraculous that South Omaha became known as the ‘Magic City'. Because of the influx of people, South Omaha was, and continues to be, culturally diverse. Home to a variety of ethnic cultures including Polish, Czech, German and Mexican, you can feel their influences in the architecture, art, food and customs.

Historic South 24th Street is a nationally recognized architectural commercial district, created almost entirely in the 1890-1910 period of the American Industrial Revolution.

Take a Bite Out of South Omaha Food

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Taste the meaning of “buena comida,” or “great food,” in South Omaha.

Dozens of family-owned restaurants, each with their own distinct and authentic flavor, line the streets of this historic area. Enjoy savory slow-cooked chicken enchiladas and home-made tortillas, or fiery roasted jalapenos and carne asada - marinated and grilled, thinly sliced steak that will melt in your mouth.

South Omaha is a place where no two salsas are alike, where Czechoslovakian kolaches and Lithuanian tortes are made from old family recipes, and where dessert is entertainment filled with Mariachis, and champurrado - Mexican hot chocolate.

Explore the restaurant options below and soon you will delight in the culture and tradition that comes with each meal.

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