Top 10 Festivals In Omaha, Nebraska

1. Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival

Planning to visit the beautiful city of Omaha in August? You might be lucky to witness and participate in the fun-filled annual Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival. It is a two-day event that takes place at Ta Ha Zouka Park, Elkhorn. The Plaza is transformed into a huge colorful trade fair with food stalls everywhere. Superb wineries join in Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival, showcasing their specialty Nebraska bottles. Other shops sell toys and trinkets. Not only that, but there is a little family village with a kid zone full of surprises. The main highlight of the event is the hot air balloon launch.

Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival

Address: Ta-Ha-Zouka Park, Omaha, Nebraska, United States

Website: Nebraska Balloon and Wine Festival

Takes place: August

Price: 15 USD

2. Cinco de Mayo

Celebrated every 5th day of May yearly, hence, the name Cinco De Mayo. It is a lively celebration to honor of the Mexican military who fought against the French at the Battle of Puebla. The war took place on May 5, 1862. Cinco de Maya is celebrated in Omaha, as well. It is one of the longest-running traditions in the city as it has been celebrated for a hundred years now. The event has lots of prepared activities for participants, including history-telling, food-tasting of specialty Omaha dishes, a colorful parade, games, lots of live music, traditional dances, and more.

Cinco de Mayo

Address: Omaha, Nebraska

Website: Cinco de Mayo

Takes place: May

3. Farnam Festival

An event for the whole family, Farnam Festival is one of the most awaited festivals in Omaha, and it happens every September of the year. This celebration centrally revolves and highlights the historic Blackstone District in the city. Nestled on Farnam Street, stretching from 36th Street to 42nd Street, this area transforms into a bustling and vibrant place with lots of festival decorations. Music can be heard from every corner as local and international acts are invited to perform. Grab a bottle of beer or a glass of cocktail and try some delicious local specialties for a complete experience. Plus, don’t forget to buy some souvenir items from local vendors.

Farnam Festival

Address: Farnam Street, Blackstone District, Omaha, Nebraska

Website: Farnam Festival

Takes place: Usually held in September

4. Taste of Omaha

Recurring annually for more than 20 years now, Taste of Omaha is a popular festival in The Gateway to the West. Numerous regional businesses and a multitude of foodies participate in this festival. Well-known restaurants in the city gather to showcase their most exquisite specialty dishes. With stage shows and performances by local bands and musicians in the background, Taste of Omaha has all the recipes for a fun-filled and memorable time. Its goal is to unite the people of the Midwest area for some delicious dining and wining. Not only that, watch or join cook-off competitions. It is one of the main highlights of the festival.

Taste of Omaha

Address: Elmwood Park , Omaha, Nebraska

Website: Taste of Omaha

Takes place: June

5. Omaha Summer Arts Festival

A celebration for art enthusiasts and social butterflies, Omaha Summer Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration that you must not miss when you visit The Gateway to the West in June. This one-day event aims to highlight the talents of the locals. Artists come together to feature their masterpieces, which are also available for shopping. Live music and good food are also present at the festival. Plus, lots of exciting games and prizes.

Omaha Summer Arts Festival

Address: 300 S 19th St #318, Omaha, NE 68102, United States

Website: Omaha Summer Arts Festival

Takes place: June

6. Omaha Beer & Bacon Festival [Last event in 2019]

Are you a big bacon-lover? Do you like beer? If your answer to these two questions is yes, you will surely have fun at Omaha Beer & Bacon Festival. This bacon and beer-centric celebration is a fundraising event that features mini-concerts, games, and lots of activities for adults. Lots of local businesses participate in the event. Expect to taste different types of bacon and a wide assortment of brews. Plus, dance to your favorite upbeat music at Omaha Beer & Bacon Festival. Not only that, but there will outdoor mega-TV that features sports games.

Omaha Beer & Bacon Festival

Address: Capitol District, Omaha, Nebraska

Website: Omaha Beer & Bacon Festival

Takes place: October

7. Renaissance Festival Nebraska

Besides Cinco de Mayo, Renaissance Festival Nebraska is another exciting festival that is celebrated in Omaha in May. It happens at the Bellevue Farm, on two the first two weekends of the month. You may choose to attend any of the two themed weekends or both. Each weekend is full of magic and surprises. Plus, there are lots of performers to watch. The most recent Renaissance Festival Nebraska featured Queen Elizabeth I and Court, Captain Nadia & First Mate Bridges, Free Company of the White Stag, Naughty Bawdy Brigade, Riders of the Golden Age, and more. Artisans and skilled craftsmen are also present to offer their superb products. Also, expect magical activities, such as Butterfly Release, Swing on the Heave-Ho Pirate Ship, Visit with the mermaids, Tomato Toss, and so much more.

Renaissance Festival Nebraska

Address: Bellevue Berry Farm, 11001 South 48th Street, Papillion NE 68133

Website: Renaissance Festival Nebraska

Takes place: First two weekends of May

8. Maha Festival

Dance your heart out to fantastic music at Maha Festival. Come to Omaha in June or August and attend this annual music celebration spearheaded by YFC, Inc. Numerous bands are invited to the event to showcase their talent. Expect electronic music, hip hop, rock, and indie performances. Discover new music or dance to old favorites. This multi-day festival has been celebrated since 2009. Food and booze are available for an unforgettable party experience.

Maha Festival

Address: Stinson Park, Omaha, NE 68106, United States

Website: Maha Festival

Takes place: Usually held in August

9. Old Market Fall Festival

There are lots of festivals happening in Omaha in October. Besides Omaha Beer & Bacon Festival and Fairy Tale Fall Festival, Old Market Fall Festival is another celebration that you should not miss on your visit in the tenth month of the year. It is a family-friendly event that is conducted in celebration of the fall season. Conducted yearly in the historic Omaha Old Market, this festival prepares lots of games and activities for participants. Not only that, but what is a celebration without delicious food? Numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs join the festivities as well, offering their mouth-watering specialties. Plus, craftsmen are also present, selling a wide array of beautiful products.

Old Market Fall Festival

Address: Omaha Old Market, Omaha, Nebraska

Website: Old Market Fall Festival

Takes place: October

10. Fairytale Fall Festival [Event has passed]

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Come to Omaha in October and witness the Fairytale Fall Festival. It is a magical celebration that is full of enchanting live performances, alluring music, beautiful costumes, lots of activities, games, and more. Kids and kids at heart will surely have an unforgettable time at the festival. You can meet Cinderella, Aurora, Snow White, and other iconic Disney superstars that you grew up watching. There will be a meet and greet, photo opportunities, autograph signing, a sing-along, dance party, storytelling, princess makeover, and snacks.

Fairytale Fall Festival

Address: Big Fred’s Pizza, Omaha, Nebraska

Website: Fairytale Fall Festival

Takes place: October

Price: 20 - 35 USD

Have a wonderful holiday in Omaha

Omaha is a breathtaking city that nestles on the Missouri River in Nebraska. It has exciting attractions that are ideal for all types of tourists. If you wish to treat yourself to a much-deserved holiday, plan an exciting trip to the Gateway to the West and attend some of its most popular festivals.