🦎 A 30-pound "dinosaur" just arrived at Omaha's zoo

Summer in Omaha has a rhythm of its own.

It is the sound of baseball fans gathering, music drifting from outdoor stages, kids running through farmers markets, and neighbors finding new favorite spots around the city.

The College World Series brings one of Omaha’s biggest traditions back this week, but that is only part of what is happening. From incredible local food to live performances, there is plenty to enjoy.

This is the season where the city really shows off, and we are happy to help you find the good stuff.

⚾ The College World Series pulls into Charles Schwab

The Gist: The 79th Men's College World Series begins Friday, June 12 at Charles Schwab Field Omaha. Eight teams (West Virginia, Troy, North Carolina, Ole Miss, Alabama, Oklahoma, Georgia, and Texas) will play through the championship series, with games and free CWS Fan Fest activities running daily for the next two weeks.

Why It Matters: It is the biggest annual event Omaha hosts. Downtown packs out, the city briefly becomes the national center of college baseball, and a lot of locals plan their June around it.

What's Next: First pitch on opening day is at 2pm.

🦎 A Giant Returns to Omaha

The Gist: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium just welcomed Reishi, a Chinese giant salamander, to the Mahoney Kingdoms of the Night exhibit inside the Desert Dome. This is the first time in over 30 years that local families can see this endangered species in Omaha. Reishi currently weighs 30 pounds, but as the world's largest amphibian species, these incredible creatures can eventually grow up to 6 feet long.

Why It Matters: Having such a rare, dinosaur-era creature right here in our neighborhood zoo is a massive win for local conservation and education. It gives us a firsthand look at an endangered giant and gives families a fantastic, unique reason to plan a weekend trip to the zoo's wet cave exhibit.

🥘 A soulful summer flavor journey

Okra African Grill is a spot locals get protective of. Chef Nina Sodji brings incredible West African cooking to the area, offering a vibrant space to celebrate new flavors this summer.

The slow-simmered Peanut Butter Chicken in a rich tomato sauce is a perfect entry point, while the iconic Jollof Rice brings the heat. Cool down with their housemade ginger lemonade. Open Wednesday through Sunday.

🎩 Sharp fits for the gentlemen

LeFlore's New Look Fashions has been outfitting Omaha men since 2000. 26 years in, the neighborhood staple sits on one of the most historic stretches in the city.

The heart of North Omaha's Black business corridor still does it the old-fashioned way. Real fabrics, real service, and an in-house tailor on staff who handles clients of all sizes, from little ones to sizes up to 64L.

They stock sharp dress shirts, ties, shoes, and a notable Kangol cap selection. It is the perfect local stop to get the men in your life looking right for Father's Day! Just note their upcoming family break from June 26 to June 28.

🐾 Pancho is a gentle ten-month-old German Shepherd mix

At eighty pounds, he has a bashful personality but offers immense affection once he trusts you, often resting his head in your lap for quiet connection. He walks on a leash beautifully and is tolerant of other dogs.

Currently part of the Diamond Dogs training program, he is ready for a daily workout and a patient family. Adoption fee is $50.00.

To learn more about this handsome boy,

⚾ Men’s College World Series | Charles Schwab Field | 06/12-06/22 | More 
Experience the electric atmosphere of college baseball at this annual tournament.

🎨 Omaha Art Fair | Aksarben Village | 06/12-06/14 | More 
A creative showcase featuring local creators, lively music, and hands-on activities.

❄️ Frozen The Musical | The Rose Theater | 06/12-06/14 | More 
A full snowy Broadway musical adventure brought to life on a historic stage.

🦖 Dinosaur Fossil Cart Experience | Lauritzen Gardens | 06/13 | More 
Explore prehistoric wonders with fossil encounters and a live volcano experiment.

✊ Omaha Freedom Festival | Various Venues | 06/13 | More 
A Juneteenth celebration: basketball tournaments, dance-offs, and family fun!

📢 Juneteenth by NAACP | meet at 24th Street | 06/13 | More 
A community march and more celebrating history, freedom, and collective joy.

🐱 Hello Kitty Cafe Truck Central | Village Pointe Shopping Center | 06/13 | More 
A pop-up offering exclusive branded treats and limited-edition merchandise.

🔮 Summer Witches Market | T&T: Trucks & Taps, Patio | 06/13 | More 
Intuitive readers, mystical local vendors, and specialty themed cocktails.

🎤 Fortune Feimster | Holland Performing Arts Center | 06/13 | More 
Southern wit, stories, and the cleanest comedy crowd this month. Ticketed.

🌴 Artikal Sound System | The Waiting Room Lounge | 06/16 | More 
Jazz-infused, smooth coastal riddles with laidback rhythms and tropical melodies!

🎸 Christopher Cross | Holland Performing Arts Center | 06/17 | More 
Yacht-rock melodies and classic pop ballads. "Sailing" included, presumably.

🦁 Late Nights at the Zoo | Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo | 06/18 | More 
An evening zoo safari: local creator booths, custom drinks, and animal spotlights.

✨ Hot and Healed Tour: Jonathan van Ness | Steelhouse Omaha | 06/19 | More 
Hilarious storytelling and infectious positivity from a fabulous comedy star.

Thanks for reading Our Newsletter! We’ll have more updates for you next week!

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