Pinewood Bowl Theater: Lincoln’s Outdoor Stage Under the Stars

Tucked into the wooded beauty of Lincoln’s Pioneers Park, Pinewood Bowl Theater offers a concert experience unlike any other in Nebraska — a night under the stars, framed by towering evergreens, with the sound of music drifting through the summer air. With space for up to 5,500 guests, this picturesque open-air venue has become a cherished tradition for Lincoln residents and a unique draw for visitors from across the Midwest.

A Park with a Story

The drive to Pioneers Park, located at South Coddington and West Van Dorn Streets, sets the tone for an evening at Pinewood Bowl. The 668-acre park is the result of a 1930s Works Progress Administration project that transformed open land into one of Lincoln’s most treasured outdoor spaces. Today it includes 440 acres of native tall-grass prairie, eight miles of hiking trails, outdoor animal exhibits, gardens, and picnic areas. Arriving early to enjoy a walk through the park before a show only adds to the magic.

From Wartime Worship to a Cultural Landmark

Pinewood Bowl’s story begins in 1947, when Lincoln needed a larger venue to host open-air church services for airmen stationed at the city’s air base. Before its construction, these gatherings — often exceeding 1,000 attendees — were held on the steps of the Nebraska State Capitol. Recognizing the need for a more accommodating and inspiring location, community leaders built the Pinewood Bowl. It quickly became a place for worship, fellowship, and entertainment. The tradition of Easter services continues to this day, open to the entire community.

The Evolution of a Stage

For decades, Pinewood Bowl was best known for its summer musical, a local production featuring homegrown talent. That changed in 2012, when the late Tom Lorenz, then-General Manager of SMG Lincoln, saw the potential to bring major touring acts to the venue. What began as a handful of concerts has grown into one of Nebraska’s most anticipated summer music series. Today, ASM Global and Mammoth Events produce the concerts, with current General Manager, Tim Savona curating a mix of nationally renowned performers and crowd favorites that keep audiences coming back year after year.

A Star-Studded Legacy

The list of artists who have graced the Pinewood Bowl stage reads like a who’s who of music history. Crosby, Stills & Nash, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Raitt, Ringo Starr, Bob Dylan, Mumford & Sons, ZZ Top, the Moody Blues, Steely Dan, Jason Mraz, Sara Bareilles, Allison Krauss, Chicago, KC and the Sunshine Band, the Village People, and the Beach Boys are just a few of the acts that have performed here. These concerts have a special energy — audiences are close enough to feel connected to the performers while being surrounded by the expansive beauty of nature.

The Perfect Outdoor Concert Experience

What sets Pinewood Bowl apart is its setting. As the sun sets, the air cools, the sky deepens into twilight, and the moonlight filters through the pines, the music feels even more alive. The venue’s layout offers excellent sightlines from every seat, while the surrounding park muffles city noise, allowing the performance to take center stage. Concerts typically run between two and two-and-a-half hours, with a 20-minute intermission and an 11:00 p.m. curfew. Headliners usually begin by 8:30 p.m., ensuring audiences get the full experience without it running late into the night.

Food and beverages are available on site, adding to the relaxed, festival-like atmosphere. Whether you’re sipping a cold drink on a warm summer night or wrapped in a light jacket on a cool evening, the combination of live music, friendly crowds, and stunning surroundings makes for an unforgettable night.

Sustainable and Community-Minded

The concert series producers are also committed to keeping Pinewood Bowl Theater green. Efforts to reduce waste, maintain the surrounding natural environment, and respect the park’s wildlife ensure that the venue remains as beautiful as the music that fills it.

Looking Ahead

After highly successful 2024 and 2025 seasons, anticipation is already building for summer 2026. While the lineup remains under wraps for now, fans know to expect a mix of iconic legends, current chart-toppers, and unique surprises. Tickets — often selling out quickly — can be purchased online or at Pinnacle Bank Arena once they go on sale. Updates and announcements are posted at pinewoodbowltheater.com.

A Tradition Worth Keeping

For many, a summer in Lincoln wouldn’t be complete without at least one night at Pinewood Bowl Theater. Today, the music lovers in Lincoln call the concerts “a total success,” adding, “This has truly become a Lincoln tradition. It’s so much fun to see that big stage used the way it was designed to be used.”

Whether you come for the world-class music, the magical setting, or the sense of community, Pinewood Bowl offers an experience that captures the heart of summer in Nebraska — welcoming, relaxed, and unforgettable.