Free events in Douglas County, NE

Cultivating Curiosity invites children to get hands-on with plants while connecting with the garden’s horticulture team. Through conversation and exploration, participants can ask questions, observe how plants grow, and delve into topics that range from seeds and roots to blooms and beyond. Each month brings a new focus. In 2026 the themes are Sowing Seeds in April, Parts of a Plant in May, a Pollinator Scavenger Hunt in June, Guess This Herb in July, Prairies in August, All About Roots in September, and Pumpkins in October. This drop-in experience is included with paid garden admission, is free for garden members, and does not require advance registration.

The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge in Omaha will glow pink and blue to honor babies lost during pregnancy, at birth, or in infancy, in recognition of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day and the International Wave of Light. An informal, self-guided walk over the bridge, organized by Luna Babies, offers a gentle space for love, remembrance, and support for families who carry a baby in their hearts. Glow sticks will be available while supplies last. There is no formal program or registration, and there is no expectation to share personal stories. Participation can include a quiet walk, a moment of reflection at the bridge, or lighting a candle at home as part of the global Wave of Light.

The Nebraska Humane Society Pet Supply Pantry provides complimentary pet essentials, including toys, leashes, collars, bowls, and more. Distribution is held inside the shelter’s Center for Humane Education.

The Bishops are back at Stinson Park for a free concert made possible by HDR and Pacific Life. Before the music gets underway, consider grabbing a bite at one of the many restaurants in Aksarben Village. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a frisbee to relax and play while you enjoy the show, and keep the good vibes flowing. The music wraps up as the park closes.

Take part in a hands-on conservation effort at Heron Haven focused on caring for habitat and trails. Volunteers will help remove invasive bush honeysuckle and garlic mustard, trim back overgrown branches, spread native seeds, and support other stewardship tasks. Two volunteer sessions are offered, with lunch provided between them and snacks and water available throughout. A safety waiver will be provided for participants to sign upon arrival. To be prepared, bring loppers, pruning shears, or a hand saw for brush work, along with personal gloves, safety glasses, and a refillable water bottle. Closed-toe shoes, long pants, and a long-sleeve shirt are recommended for comfort and protection. Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. A water refill station will be available.

Enjoy a free family fishing experience hosted by Omaha Parks and Recreation and Nebraska Game and Parks. All gear is provided, and volunteers will be on site to offer guidance and assistance throughout the activity.

Old Market Harvest Party is a free fall celebration at Polina Gardens featuring live music from Parfait, a DJ set, games, pumpkin carving, food trucks, autumn themed beverages, giveaways, and additional activities. It offers a mix of entertainment and seasonal flavors in a festive Old Market gathering.

A monthly dinner service takes place at Stephen Center on the third Saturday of each month.

A monthly clean-up in Little Bohemia gathers a small but mighty crew to spruce up South 13th Street. Even a 15 minute stint of litter pickup makes a meaningful difference, and when ten people give that amount of time it adds up to more than two hours of care for the neighborhood. Cleanup supplies are provided by Keep Omaha Beautiful. After lending a hand, consider celebrating with brunch at Fizzy’s or a relaxing glass of wine at Idle Wine & Goods. This activity is weather permitting.

Young participants receive genuine Kempo instruction shaped by Dr. Ron Chapel’s proven methods. Intended for ages 4 to 13, the program highlights confidence building, self esteem, focus, discipline, overall fitness, and practical self defense. Children can meet new friends and enjoy themselves while they learn. The first session is free, and a two week trial is available for $40. Held in Omaha, NE.

Adults at any stage of their martial arts journey are welcome to explore Kempo Karate guided by Dr. Ron Chapel’s established approach. Training centers on practical self-defense and overall fitness, helping participants build strength and conditioning while reducing stress and sharpening focus. Sessions are led by seasoned instructors in a supportive community setting. The first class is free, and a two-week trial is available for $40.

North Omaha Music & Arts presents a free weekly jazz session that starts with a house band set, then opens into a collaborative jam where jazz musicians, instrumentalists, and vocalists can hone their skills and share ideas in the NOMA space. Devoted to elevating quality jazz in the local community, this gathering encourages connection, inspiration, and the enjoyment of live performance.

This live comedy open mic welcomes newcomers, traveling comics, and rising talent to the stage. Each set runs five minutes, keeping the laughs quick and varied. Irish drink specials are available. Signups are offered for performers, and admission is free.

Garden members can enjoy early access to the gardens for a self-guided walking club and explore over 1.5 miles of trails at their own pace. This free program encourages well-being in a natural setting, where time outdoors can ease stress, support mind and body, and leave you feeling refreshed. No reservation is needed. Please bring a membership card and a photo ID.

Enjoy authentic Kempo Karate in Omaha with instruction grounded in Dr. Ron Chapel’s established approach. Open to ages 4 and up and suitable for every experience level, this class invites families to learn side by side. Training emphasizes practical self-defense, confidence and discipline, and improved fitness in a welcoming setting for kids, teens, and adults. The first class is free, and a two-week trial is available for $40.