Restaurants
V. Mertz
Elegant restaurant in snug Old Market digs crafting gourmet New American plates & a tasting menu. 1022 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102
Phone: (402) 345-8980 | Web: vmertz.com
Spezia Omaha
Sizable, modern pick with a patio offering Italian dishes plus woodgrilled entrees & Angus steaks. 3125 S 72nd St, Omaha, NE 68124
Phone: (402) 391-2950 | Web: speziarestaurant.com
Plank Seafood Provisions
Oyster bar & restaurant offering a broad seafood menu & happy hour in an airy, coastal-chic setup. 1205 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102
Phone: (402) 507-4480 | Web: plankseafood.com
Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?
Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.
Le Bouillon
Industrial-chic mainstay offering French comfort food & a raw bar, plus Sunday brunch & happy hours.
1017 Howard St, Omaha, NE
Dario’s Brasserie
French-style cafe & bar serving classics like moules frites, plus a wide selection of Belgian beers.
4920 Underwood Ave, Omaha, NE
Au Courant Regional
Kitchen
Convivial bar & eatery plating
European dishes with a modern twist, including a chef’s tasting menu.
6064 Maple St, Omaha, NE
Kitchen Table
Cool locavore cafe preparing inventive sandwiches, with veggie options, tap beer & wine.
1415 Farnam St, Omaha, NE
The Drover
Landmark chophouse specializing in steaks marinated in whiskey then grilled to order in rustic digs.
2121 S 73rd St, Omaha, NE
Twisted Fork
Contemporary American restaurant cooking inventive comfort food in funky digs with patio seating.
1014 Howard St, Omaha, NE
Twisted Cork Bistro
Relaxed spot for wild salmon & gourmet burgers with Seattle influences & Pacific Northwest wines.
10730 Pacific St #110, Omaha, NE
Block 16
Sandwich shop with a garden-to-table philosophy serving casual lunches of gyros, burgers & sides.
1611 Farnam St, Omaha, NE
EVENTS 2024
Oct 4-6
Junkstock
This vintage celebration at Sycamore Farms just west of Omaha is the perfect way to welcome the new season. Its harvest edition this October 4-6, 2024 brings with it all the autumn goodies: bonfires, pumpkin spice lattes, kettle corn, chrysanthemums, a giant pumpkin house and hayrack rides. Learn more and join us now at visitomaha.com.
Oct 12
FallFest at Hummel Park Nature Center
Get out and enjoy all that fall has to offer including nature hikes, crafts, s’mores, archery and yard games. Vitamin d, fresh air and free fun -- it’s a winning combo for a autumn Saturday. Learn more and join us now at visitomaha.com.
Oct 18
Spooky Skate
Celebrate the return of spooky season with a party at the Skate Ribbon in Heartland of America Park! Join in for a frightfully fun night at The RiverFront with games, giveaways, and a costume skate night featuring all your favorite Halloween songs! Skate rentals are $5 for adults or $4 for youth. Learn more and join us now at visitomaha.com.
Oct 25
Baseballoween
Presented By: Omaha Storm Chasers and Union Omaha. Don your best costume and bring the family to this free event at the ballpark returning for its 13th year. The event will feature trick-or-treating, activity stations, and a family-friendly movie on the videoboard. Leashed dogs are also welcome! Learn more and join us now at visitomaha.com.
EVENTS 2024
Oct 29
The Great HALL-oween Haunt
Join The Durham Museum and community partners like Fontenelle Forest, NE SciFest, and The Rose Theater trick-or-treating fun. Wear costumes, get treats, play games, and enjoy spooky activities. Don’t miss the Haunted Train, Cobweb Caboose, or sweet treats at the Soda Fountain. UNO’s The Moving Company’s Dancing Zombies return at 6:45PM for their 11th year. Learn more and join us now at visitomaha.com.
Nov 7-10
2024 Autumn Festival, An Arts & Crafts Affair
Hundreds of the nation’s finest artists and crafters display and sell their handcrafted works. Our Arts & Crafts tour of shows are consistently ranked in the Top 100 Shows in the Country by Sunshine Artist Magazine. An hourly gift certificate winner, plenty of food & drink, lots of family fun and free parking! Learn more at visitomaha.com.
Nov 30
Holiday Lights Festival Lighting Ceremony
Join The RiverFront for the return of lights to Downtown Omaha. Witness white tree lights, sizable ornaments, a community tree, and a festive multimedia show at the Holiday Lights Lighting Ceremony. Learn more and join us now at visitomaha.com.
Dec 7
Peace, Love & Rock-n-Roll Holidays
Get ready to rock-n-roll into your holiday season by joining River City Mixed Chorus at the Holland for their annual Winter show! Hear radio favorites old and new, all performed in joy-filled, four-part harmony by 160-plus singers dedicated to creating music that makes a difference all year long. Learn more and join us now at visitomaha.com.
EVENTS 2024-25
Dec 14-15
Midwest Fest Holiday Market
The inaugural Holiday Market from the organizers of Midwest Fest offers something for everyone on your list. Multiple vendors feature everything from home goods to handmade jewelry, reclaimed treasures, artwork, and more! Skilled artisans and local food trucks gather at The RiverFront during this festive market. Learn more at visitomaha.com.
Jan 25 2025
LGBTQ Comedy Show
Join your friends at Dry Spokes, Omaha’s only alcohol-free bar, for a night of comedy fun and delicious drinks. Enjoy a craft non-alcoholic beer or a tasty mocktail as you settle in for a night of laughter from local LGBTQ+ comedians. Learn more and join us for some laughs at visitomaha.com.
Jan 26-28 2025
Cathedral Flower Festival
Cathedral Arts Project, or CAP, brings residents of the Midwest some of the best in the visual and musical arts all under the roof of one of the most unique and spiritual structures in the Midwest. The annual Cathedral Flower Festival is sponsored by Cathedral Arts Project and takes place on the last weekend in January in the beauty of our Cathedral. Learn more at stceciliacathedral.org.
Feb 24 2025
Molchat Doma Tour
Presented By: Steelhouse Omaha. Molchat Doma (translated as “Houses Are Silent”), founded in 2017 in Minsk, Belarus, stands at the intersection of post-punk, new-wave and synth-pop. Learn more and join us now at steelhouseomaha.com.
Feb 26 - Mar 1 2025
Omaha Fashion Week
Fifteen years into the journey, attendance has grown to over 10,000 per
EVENTS 2025
year and OFW has developed a national reputation as the best place for young fashion designers to be nurtured. Behind the glitz and glamour of this red-carpet event, you’ll find a commitment to education and a passion for supporting cultural vibrancy, creativity, and innovation as drivers of economic stability and growth. Learn more at omahafashionweek.com.
Mar 11-16 2025
Omaha Film Festival
The Festival showcases over 100 films during its annual event, selected from an average of close to 1000 annual entries that come in from around the world, offering a wide variety of independent cinema choices that includes regional and world premier films as well as advanced screenings of films that have already attracted wider distribution. Learn more at omahafilmfestival.org.
Mar 15 2025
Symphony and Fireworks Show
This concert will feature the Omaha Symphony, along with other performers to be announced, performing favorites like The Star-Spangled Banner, America the Beautiful, Stars and Stripes Forever, music by John Williams, and much more. The evening will culminate with The RiverFront’s spectacular fireworks presentation synchronized with live music. Learn more at omahasymphony.org.
Apr TBD 2025
Holi Run 2025
This is the most vibrant event of the year and participants can expect to be immersed in a spectrum of rainbow colors that will leave their clothes, shoes, and friends looking like a kaleidoscope! There will be live music to keep the energy high, as well as food and refreshments to recharge after the run. Hit up one of the photo booths to commemorate the event and don’t forget to sign up for the prizes and giveaways. Learn more at npdodge.com.
May 5 2025
Cinco de Mayo
As one of the city’s largest and most diverse community celebrations, there’s a lot to experience at Cinco de Mayo Omaha. For three days, visitors encounter a street fair with block after block of tantalizing food options, artisan vendors selling their wares, and live music and dance performances sprinkled throughout. Learn more at visitomaha.com.
May/Jun TBD 2025
TASTE OF OMAHA
The 2025 “TASTE OF OMAHA ” will again showcase outstanding Restaurants with exciting live entertainment daily. This year the Annual Event will have entertainment for everyone’s taste on stages throughout the Festival. All stage shows during the 3-day extravaganza are free to attend. Top National Entertainers combined with the best popular area bands and musicians will again be continuously performing throughout the Festival. Learn more at showofficeonline.com.
Jun TBD 2025
Heartland Pride Parade & Festival
We believe in a day when the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender, and Queer communities (LGBTQ+) are globally integrated, and recognized for its contributions, and when equality and civil rights have been achieved for all, and we do that by celebrating and promoting the history, diversity and future prosperity of the LGBTQ+ community of the Omaha/Council Bluffs Metro Areas. Learn more at heartlandpride.org.
Jun TBD 2025
Omaha Summer Arts Festival
Your favorites return with 135 artists from throughout the U.S.; multiple staging areas featuring dozens of talented local musicians; a huge, handson Children’s Fair and Young Artist Exhibition; and some of the best food in Omaha. Plus, don’t miss the return of the mural cubes and new surprises like colorful chalk art and more! Learn more at aksarbenvillage.com.
Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:
1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~
In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.
2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~
Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,
continued on page 16
EVENTS 2025
Jul 28 - Aug 4 2025
Native Omaha Days
The Native Omaha Days Festival has been Omaha’s premier homecoming event for 45 years. Biennially native Omahans come back to town to visit family, classmates, and friends all while celebrating the invigorating history of North Omaha. The pandemic has had us isolated and unable to visit loved ones. Learn more at nativeomahadaysparade.com.
Apr 1 2025
Czech-Slovak Festival
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. Find more information at omahaczechclub.com.
Aug 8 2025
The Pinnacle Bank Championship
Whether it is through charitable giving, volunteer efforts or sponsoring special events, Pinnacle Bank is proud to support the communities they call home. In 2016, Pinnacle Bank was thrilled to be offered the unique opportunity to give back through the Pinnacle Bank Championship. This year will be the fifth year the event brings the PGA tour to Omaha. Learn more at thepinnaclebankchampionship.com.
Aug TBD 2025
Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival
Throughout Mid-America Expositions’ 50 year history, the Late Bob Mancuso, Sr., developed many successful events, trade shows and expositions throughout the Midwest in several markets including Agriculture, Home & Garden, Business & Industrial which have become regarded as some of the finest presentations in the United States. Today his son Mike carries on his Legacy. Learn more at showofficeonline.com.
cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.
3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.
4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~ Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.
5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.
6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.
7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.
8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.
Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!
GLSEN OMAHA CHAPTER
GLSEN believes that every student has the right to a safe, supportive, and LGBTQ-inclusive K-12 education. We are a national network of educators, students, and local GLSEN Chapters working to make this right a reality. Our research and experience has shown that there are four major ways that schools can cultivate a safe and supportive environment for all of their students, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
GLSEN.ORG
HEARTLAND PRIDE
We respect, value and celebrate the unique attributes, characteristics and perspectives that make each person who they are. We also believe that bringing diverse individuals together allows us to collectively and more effectively address the issues that face our communities. It is our aim, therefore, that our partners, strategies and investments reflect these core values.
HEARTLANDPRIDE.ORG
PFLAG OMAHA
Founded in 1973, PFLAG is the first and largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and their families. PFLAG.ORG
NEBRASKA AIDS PROJECT
Nebraska AIDS Project leads the community in the fight to overcome HIV/ AIDS and its stigma through education, supportive services and advocacy.
NAP.ORG
OUTNEBRASKA
Advocating, celebrating, and educating to improve the lives of LGBTQ+ people. We believe in a Nebraska that embraces and celebrates the full spectrum of LGBTQIA2S+ people. Often, LGBTQIA2S+ Nebraskans experience discrimination, disparaties, and isolation – particularly transgender people and people of color. OutNebraska is dedicated to empowering, celebrating, and growing LGBTQIA2S+ communities in Nebraska. OUTNEBRASKA.ORG
EVENTS 2025
Sep TBD 2025
Junkstock
During Junkstock, dozens of “junk” vendors from around the U.S. offer up their unique antiques, repurposed relics, and handmade artisan foods and goods for excited shoppers and collectors who travel from across the Midwest. Each weekend is punctuated by live music, a kids zone, and of course, food. Learn more at visitomaha.com.
Sep TBD 2025
Oktoberfest
For you, your family, and your friends, this is an opportunity to partake in the authenticity of German culture, offering a rich tapestry of delights, including delectable German cuisine, finely crafted beers, and a dazzling array of entertainment that will immerse you in the heart of Germany’s vibrant traditions. Learn more at germanamericansociety.org.
