Exploring Lincoln’s Summer Music and Art Festivals

by Sriyani Tidball • photos by Tom Tidball

Each summer, Lincoln, Nebraska, transforms into a living soundtrack, where melodies weave through every corner of the city — from lush parks and bustling plazas to cozy courtyards and lively amphitheaters. These events go far beyond music — they’re immersive celebrations of community and culture. Neighbors gather under the open sky, kids dance barefoot in the grass, and food trucks serve up local flavors as the sun sets to a chorus of jazz, folk, funk, and everything in between. From laid-back lunchtime serenades to electrifying evening concerts, the city pulses with energy, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re a devoted music lover or just looking to enjoy a magical evening outdoors, Lincoln’s summer music festivals promise memories as vibrant as the sounds themselves.

To stay updated, explore kzum.org/music-calendar, journalstar.com’s nightlife calendar, or lincoln.org/play/events. Here’s a curated guide to Lincoln’s most beloved summer music happenings:

Jazz in June is held every Tuesday evening in June on the lush lawn of the Sheldon Museum of Art on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus at 12th and R streets. It has delivered world-class jazz for nearly 30 years. The free performances feature renowned artists and food trucks. Visit jazzinjune.com for artist lineups and details.

ZooFest Since 1998, this iconic outdoor blues festival, hosted by the legendary Zoo Bar (136 N. 14th Street), has rocked downtown Lincoln with national blues and rock legends. Celebrating its roots in live music, ZooFest remains a staple for fans of gritty, soulful performances — info at zoobar.com.

Foundation Garden Summer Series Relax during lunch on Wednesdays from May through August at the Lincoln Community Foundation Garden (14th and N streets). Enjoy live performances in a peaceful downtown setting featuring jazz, folk, and acoustic acts — more at artsincorporated.org.

Art on the Plaza, in Union Plaza Park (21st and Q streets), happens biweekly on Friday evenings from June through early fall. This series brings together an exciting blend of local music across genres — reggae, bluegrass, hip-hop, and more. Check out the Art on the Plaza Summer Concert Series on Facebook.

Live at Telegraph On Wednesday evenings from July to September, the Mill Coffeehouse in the Telegraph District (330 S. 21st Street) hosts live outdoor music from 6–9:00 p.m. Bring a lawn chair, grab a coffee or cocktail, and enjoy food trucks and community vibes. Pets welcome!

Meadowlark Music Festival Bringing chamber music to accessible venues since 2001, this July festival features world-class classical musicians performing in family-friendly settings. Visit meadowlarkmusicfestival.org.

The Lincoln Municipal Band has been a city institution since 1907. They continue to deliver free concerts every Sunday evening in July and August at the Antelope Park Bandshell — details at artsincorporated.org.

Plainsong Folk Festival Held each August at Templeton Acreage (25th & Saltillo Road), this festival celebrates folk in all its forms—from bluegrass to Americana. Set on a historic family homestead, it’s a bring-your-own-chair event rich in tradition. plainsongfestival.com.

Lincoln Calling Though typically held in the spring, it spills into summer with creative programming downtown, making it a multi-venue, multi-genre music and arts festival. Expect a diverse range of music, from punk and hip hop to psychedelic rock, alongside art installations and cultural experiences. See lincolncalling.com.

Friday Nights Live at SouthPointe Pavilions (2910 Pine Lake Road), takes place every Friday evening from mid-June through July. This free and family-friendly courtyard concert series is a great way to spend the evening. From 6:30–8:30 p.m. enjoy local and regional bands, food, drinks, and a casual atmosphere. Bring your own chair and check the full lineup at southpointeshopping.com.

Stransky Park Music Series KZUM sponsors this Thursday night summer series from 7–9 p.m. at Stransky Park (17th & Harrison streets). With diverse lineups and a community vibe, it’s a Lincoln favorite.

Juneteenth Celebration Held in June at Trago Park (2032 U Street), this celebration of freedom features live music, classic cars, soul food, and community spirit—organized by the Clyde Malone Community Center.

The Hispanic Heritage Festival is held every September at Antelope Park (1650 Memorial Drive). This event immerses you in Latin culture through music, dance, art, and cuisine. Twirling dresses, vibrant rhythms, and family activities create an unforgettable celebration.

Star City Pride Lincoln’s LGBTQ+ celebration features live music, food, drag shows, and a parade, and offers a family-friendly, welcoming environment for all — a colorful festival of pride and inclusion.

Czech Festival Though often held in May at Pla Mor Ballroom (6600 West O St), this long-standing tradition features polka bands, dancers in costume, traditional Czech food, and a vibrant cultural atmosphere.

The Lincoln Arts Festival, now organized independently of the Lincoln Arts Council, returns to Canopy Street in the Railyard this June, showcasing over 100 artists and a rich blend of live music, food vendors, and creative activities. Visit lnkartsfest.com.

Hub & Soul Music Series Union Plaza Amphitheatre comes alive on the last Friday of each month from June to September with free concerts that blend music, community, and food trucks in a unique downtown green space.

Nebraska Crossroads Music Festival: Lincoln Showcase Held in late July, this branch of the statewide festival focuses on global music, featuring diverse instruments and traditions. Performances are held at UNL venues and at various locations beyond — more at nebraskamusicfest.org.

From classical to punk, blues to hip hop, and folk to jazz—Lincoln’s summer music scene is as diverse as its people. So, grab a blanket or a chair, bring a friend or two, and let the music of the city become your soundtrack this season. And don’t forget to check out the Pinewood Bowl summer performances, where world-class artists bring unforgettable concerts to the beautiful open-air amphitheater in Pioneers Park. For more, see the story on page 47.