Harmonious Delights

Exploring Lincoln’s Summer Festivals

Jazz in June  n  For nearly three decades, enthusiasts of the captivating world of jazz eagerly anticipate the enchanting Tuesday evenings throughout June in Lincoln. Renowned artists from national and international realms grace the stage on the verdant western expanse of the Sheldon Museum of Art, nestled at the intersection of 12th and R streets within the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s campus. The resonance of Jazz in June amplifies the substantial backing it receives from both UNL and the supportive community members, alongside voluntary contributions tendered during the event. Arriving a tad early presents the opportunity to peruse the offerings of the open-air food trucks. You can spread your blanket or arrange your chairs amidst the elegant sculptures, ushering in an evening aglow with magnificent musical performances. Discover the featured artists by visiting JazzInJune.com.

ZooFest  n  In a remarkable showcase of musical continuity, The Zoo Bar has proudly hosted the perennial ZooFest since 1998, arguably one of the most enduring musical festivals in the state. Over five decades, the illustrious blues club at 136 N. 14th Street has welcomed many iconic names within the jazz and blues music domain. For a comprehensive exploration of ZooFest’s essence, kindly refer to Page 20. Find additional information at zoobar.com.

Foundation Garden Summer Performance Series  n  Get serenaded at the Lincoln Community Foundation Garden during your lunch hours. Located at the crossroads of 14th and N streets, every Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m. From May through August, the garden comes alive with offerings from local musicians, creating a delightful atmosphere for those enjoying their lunch breaks. You can always anticipate an eclectic fusion, including jazz, folk, and adult contemporary genres. Delve into the details at artsincorporated.org.

Art on the Plaza Summer Concert Series  n  From the brink of June through the serene shift into September or early October, the junction of 21st and Q streets comes alive as Union Plaza Park undergoes a magical sonic transformation. Biweekly, on Friday evenings, an eclectic assembly of local musical prodigies spanning genres like reggae, rock, tribal rhythms, bluegrass, jazz, and hip-hop collaborate to fill the air with captivating melodies. The event serves as a unifying fiesta, resonating with the diverse spirit of Lincoln’s dynamic art scene. For information, visit the Art on the Plaza Summer Concert Series page on Facebook.

Live at Telegraph Concert Series Stop in at the Mill coffee house at 330 South 21st any time from July through September, and you will find a newly remodeled area that buzzes with entertainment and excitement. Every Wednesday from 6–9 p.m., there is music and fun. 

Bring a chair or sit in the patio area. Pets are welcome; dinner selections, coffee drinks, cocktails, and local beers add to the festivities. 

Meadowlark Music Festival  n  Founded in 2001, Meadowlark Music Festival in July makes classical chamber music accessible to everyone. Excellent artists perform chamber music in a variety of family-friendly settings. For more, see meadowlarkmusicfestival.org. 

Nebraska Crossroads Music Festival is a celebration of culture through world-class music in Lincoln and Omaha. The festival was founded in Lincoln in 2019 and expanded to Omaha in 2022, celebrating many cultural groups that call Nebraska home, through world-class concerts, workshops, jam sessions and educational events. The concerts are mostly in the summer and to date they have had over 35 concerts with music from over 25 cultural traditions and 150 musicians from all over the world as well as from right here in Lincoln.

Lincoln Municipal Band  n  Designated as the city’s official ensemble since 1907, the Lincoln Municipal Band takes the stage at the Shildneck Memorial Bandshell nestled in the core of Antelope Park, located at the junction of Garfield Street and Memorial Drive. They present a sequence of complimentary Sunday evening concerts throughout July and August. For more information, check out artsincorporated.org. 

Plainsong Folk Festival  n  Held annually in August since 2002, the PlainSong Folk Festival has expanded through the years and now includes all folk music genres. The festival’s permanent location is Templeton Acreage (25th St. and Saltillo Rd.), a family homestead founded in 1881. Bring your lawn chair. See plainsongfestival.com for more information. 

Lincoln Calling  n This music festival unites communities through inventive programming and immersive arts and culture experiences. The two-day spring event happening May 3-4, 2024, is a vibrant celebration of music and art, championing exploration and creativity in downtown Lincoln. The annual festival includes a diverse line-up of genre-bending music, spanning from folk to psychedelic rock, to alt and punk rock, hip hop, and more. The event puts a spotlight on counterculture and caters to a wide spectrum of musical tastes. Embracing diversity and artistic expression, Lincoln Calling fosters a space where the transformative power of music and art thrives, making it an event that truly brings people together.

Friday Nights Live  n  Since 2000, locals and visitors have enjoyed live music on summer Friday evenings in the Center Courtyard of SouthPointe Pavilions (2910 Pine Lake Road). Admission is free, but donations are requested to benefit a local charity. Bring your lawn chair. You’ll find the schedule at southpointeshopping.com.

Stransky Park Music Series  n  Local radio station KZUM sponsors free concerts from 7–9 p.m. throughout the summer. Located in Stransky Park, at 17th and Harrison, the variety and styles of music is a great summer experience. 

Juneteenth  n  This event encapsulates the essence of Juneteenth—the freedom that belongs to everyone, cherished and commemorated. Lincoln’s yearly Juneteenth festivity occurs at Trago Park, adjacent to the Clyde Malone Community Center on 2032 U Street. The event features live performances, classic automobiles, and an array of culinary delights, creating an atmosphere that fully immerses one in the jubilation of embracing liberty!

The Hispanic Heritage Festival is a beautiful assault on all of your senses. During the September event, between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., make your way to Antelope Park at 1650 Memorial Drive. This festival will envelop you in the vibrant Hispanic heritage of both Lincoln and the global community. Immerse your senses in a blend of cherished traditions and contemporary expressions through music, art, and cuisine. This festivity is a tribute to the Latinos in our neighborhood, and the sight of twirling dresses harmonizing with the music is a spectacle not to be overlooked. Attendees will discover booths showcasing books, delectable dishes, and engaging activities tailored to children and adults. 

Star City Pride  n  Relatively new to Lincoln festivals, it is a fun, inspirational, and educational time to learn more about the LGBTQ community. There are various opportunities to see shows, enjoy food and drink, watch a parade, and include many activities. 

Czech Festival  n  This festival has been a cherished custom for over half a century, usually in May. Situated at the Pla Mor Ballroom on West O Street, this three-day occasion embodies everything Czech. The culinary delights are nothing short of spectacular! The vibrant and captivating dancers and their lively costumes create an enchanting spectacle as they gracefully swirl across the dance floor. Attendees can delight in the harmonious melodies of accordions, lively polkas, and the musical voices of choirs, among other cultural attractions at the event.

Melodies fill various corners of the city throughout the summer season, and this harmony extends beyond just these months, spanning the entire year. Don’t forget to explore neighborhood clubs, eateries, nearby vineyards, and other charming settings. If you’re seeking inspiration, refer to kzum.org/music-calendar/ for ideas. The nightlife calendar on journalstar.com or lincoln.org/play/events is also a valuable resource.