🕵️‍♂️ The hidden story behind those roadside fireworks tents

The best local weeks usually have a little bit of everything, and this one definitely does. A Broadway favorite is taking over the Orpheum, outdoor concerts are bringing people together, and some of Omaha’s classic spots are still doing what they do best.

We love finding those moments where the city feels connected. There’s plenty!

🪄 Wicked is flying high at the Orpheum

The Gist: Wicked, billed by Omaha Performing Arts as the city's most popular musical, is in the middle of a three-week run at the Orpheum Theater and drawing strong houses through the Fourth of July weekend. The Broadway tour opened June 17 and continues through July 5, with two dozen performances total covering the untold story of Elphaba and Glinda before Dorothy ever lands in Oz.

Why It Matters: This is one of the longest Broadway runs the Orpheum has hosted in recent years, and it lines up with peak summer travel and tourism in downtown Omaha.

🎆 Your fireworks tent is probably helping a nonprofit

The Gist: Those fireworks tents popping up across the metro do more than sell bottle rockets. A percentage of proceeds funnels back to local nonprofits selected through a lottery, with eligible organizations earning up to 15% of net sales or a guaranteed minimum of $6,500. Benson VFW Post 2503, the largest VFW in Nebraska with around 800 members, made the list this year after sitting it out in 2025.

Why It Matters: For posts like Benson VFW, fireworks revenue is the difference between covering operating costs and not. Post 2503 uses its funds to recognize first responders, law enforcement, EMTs, and teachers, and is currently working to reconnect with Korean War veterans across the metro.

🍔 Crisp edges, no fluff, pure nostalgia.

If you’re spotlighting a place in the run-up to the Fourth, you go with the one that put it right in the name. All American Burger is the smashburger concept quietly building a loyal following.

The formula is simple: thin, crispy-edged patties and killer sauce. The towering Unit is for when you skipped lunch. Grab some crinkle-cut fries and a milkshake for a perfect pre-fireworks dinner!

🎧 Sifting through five decades of local vinyl

Homer's Music & Gifts has held down its space on the Old Market brick streets since Bruce Hoberman opened the doors in 1971. Decades later, it remains a locally owned staple with Nebraska's best selection of new and used music.

This upcoming long weekend and beyond, a random afternoon is best spent digging through the bins or checking out upcoming pre-orders. It is an ideal stroll, especially with the new Mercredi Market sharing the block.

🐾 Sadie is a beautiful adult Domestic Medium Hair calico

A perfect medium size, this clever girl is equal parts playful and snuggly, always ready to chat when dinnertime approaches. Sadie coexists peacefully with other cats, though her compatibility with dogs and kids is currently unknown.

She is already spayed, vaccinated, and fully house-trained. Please contact the shelter directly regarding her adoption fee.

To learn more about this sweet girl,

🪴 Pots-A-Palooza (sidewalk sale) | Nebraska Furniture Mart | 06/25-06/28 | More 
Bustling garden market featuring local food trucks, sweet treats, and sodas.

🚀 City of Omaha's Concert and Fireworks Show | Memorial Park | 06/26 | More
Massive celebration with iconic music legends and a spectacular sky show.

🎵 Saturday Concert featuring The Personics | Stinson Park | 06/27 | More 
Free outdoor concert with picnic-blanket vibes and easygoing summer covers.

🎭 Frozen the Musical (Final Weekend) | The Rose Theater | until 06/28 | More 
Last chance to catch Elsa, Anna, and Olaf belt it out on stage.

🌟 Mobile Stage Youth Talent Show Finals | Gene Leahy Mall | 06/28 | More 
The region's best young performers competing under the stars.

🦋 5th Annual Pollinator Party! | Benson Bounty | 06/28 | More 
Educational garden walks, artisan booths, and free native wildflower tea samples.

🍷 Summer Music Series feat. B Street Band | Cellar 426 Winery | 06/27 | More
Springsteen tribute act on the patio, wine in hand.

🎤 Damon Wayans Jr. | Funny Bone Comedy Club | 06/27 | More
Sharp, observational stand-up from the New Girl alum.

🎸 Charley Crockett | Steelhouse Omaha | 06/28 | More
Cosmic country and Gulf Coast blues at the city's newest big room.

🪗 Weird Al Yankovic: Bigger & Weirder Tour | Baxter Arena | 06/28 | More
Four decades of pop parodies with Puddles Pity Party opening.

👑 Gaga Pride Drag Brunch | Funny Bone Comedy Club | 06/28 | More
Bottomless mimosas, sequins, and Mother Monster tributes.

🎶 Camping In Alaska | The Slowdown | Omaha | 06/30 | More
Midwestern emo revival at the city's beloved indie room.

Last week’s Father’s Day memes were way too much fun, so we’re back for part 2!

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

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