Friday, May 26, 2023 12 summer events & activities to enjoy in Lincoln
Staying in Lincoln for the summer? Check out these great activities and events.
Jazz in June
7 p.m. | June 6, 13, 20, and 27
The free outdoor concert series happens each Tuesday evening in June, in the Sheldon Sculpture Garden. Bring a blanket or folding chairs to make yourself comfortable in the setting. View additional details and a list of weekly performers.
East Campus Discovery Days & Farmer’s Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | June 10, July 8, and August 12
This is more than the typical farmer’s market...it’s a fun and family-friendly event with much to experience. Shop the fresh produce and craft vendors. Enjoy live music and the Backyard Farmer gardens. Participate in science-related activities. Bowl at the Husker Bowling Center and grab a bite to eat from food trucks. View a list of vendors, as well as activities and a map.
Campus Rec Memberships
If you're enrolled in a summer course at UNL and paying student fees, then you automatically have access to all the rec facilities for the entire summer term. For Huskers not taking any summer classes, you have the option to purchase a $75 summer membership to the rec centers for your exercise, sport and play enjoyment. Memberships can be purchased from the front desks inside the Campus Rec Center and Rec & Wellness Center. View additional details.
Films at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center
The on-campus film center at 313 N 13th Street (between R and Q Streets) has daily screenings of acclaimed independent, foreign-language and award-winning films. Students can get $5 tickets at the box office. View the summer schedule.
Star City Pride Festival
June 9 & 10
A two-day festival featuring a vendor pavilion, incredible local entertainers, musical acts, family friendly activities, and a parade, brings together members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community, their friends, allies and supporters in celebration of the unique spirit and culture of the LGBTQ community. The festival runs both Friday and Saturday; the Pride Parade is Saturday. View additional event details and the schedule.
Juneteenth Celebrations
- June 17
Hosted by the Malone Community Center, the public is invited to join the annual Juneteenth celebration from 12 to 4 p.m. at Trago Park (2100 U St., directly east of City Campus) to enjoy food, live entertainment, fun for the kids and booths from local organizations.
- June 19
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Nebraska Union Plaza, join the UNL campus commemoration of Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of enslavement in the United States. The event includes education, refreshments and giveaways. Additional details.
Lincoln Saltdogs Baseball
Catch Lincoln's professional baseball team in action at Haymarket Park, with games throughout the week featuring various promotions, including free t-shirts and post-game fireworks on Fridays. See the schedule and get tickets.
Sweet treats from the UNL Dairy Store
When you need to cool off, stop by the Dairy Store on east campus for a scoop or two of handmade ice cream. For an extra dose of Nebraska, try the sweet corn flavor. View the menu.
Lincoln Bike Trails
The capital city is home to 130 miles of bike trails, with various parks and landmarks to visit along each route. Don't have your own bike? Rent one from Outdoor Adventures Center or BikeLNK.
Mini Golf
Miniature golf makes for a great leisure activity during the summer. Whether you want to enjoy the warm weather or cool off inside, there's a course in Lincoln to fit your needs. Explore the outdoor courses and enjoy Tropical Sno shaved ice at Adventure Golf Center on 56th & Hwy 2 or head indoors to Prehistoric Putt, featuring 20 life size dinosaurs, a zip line, batting cage, and more.
Farmers' Markets
The city of Lincoln hosts several farmers' markets throughout the summer, featuring produce, baked goods, flowers, handmade clothing and decor, and more.
Outdoor Adventures
Summer is a great time to get outdoors and explore nature. Whether you want to try hiking, paddling, climbing, or camping, Outdoor Adventures Center has all the gear you need for your next adventure. See all that's available to rent and reserve your equipment.