Open Daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Get tickets
Lauritzen Gardens - Omaha's Botanical Center
    |    Calendar     |     Visit     |    About     |    Learn     |    Rent     |    Give     |    Join     |    Conservation     |    Antiques Show
Visit > Events and Exhibits
Visit
Know Before You Go
Hours and Admission
Gardens
Events and Exhibits
2024 Call for Submissions- Art Gallery
All-European Show and Shine
Deck the Holidays
Easter Brunch
Easter Extravaganza
Ghoulish Garden Adventure
Holiday Poinsettia Show
Japanese Ambience Festival
Leashes at Lauritzen
Mothers Day Brunch
Orchid Show and Sale
Sandhill Crane Migration Trip
StoryWalk®
Summer Solstice Lecture
Tempo of Twilight
The Garden's Gambit
TREEmendous Arbor Day Celebration
Valentine's Day Dinner
Walking Club
Holiday Chess Blitz
Group Tours
Café and Coffee Shop
Gift Shop
Directions/Map
Garden Etiquette
Photography Policy
Parking
Join the E-mail List
Search   

  Print Page
Events and Exhibits
What's In Bloom?
Current highlights include: snowdrops, witch hazel, crocus, ornamental grasses, evergreens, barks, berries, and seed pods

January 13 through May 12, 2024
  
BRICKLIVE Brickosaurs
On display for the first time in the United States, experience BRICKLIVE Brickosaurs, an adventure of Jurassic scale at Omaha’s Lauritzen Gardens. Starting January 13, 2024, marvel at 30 iconic dinosaur sculptures made from more than 1.5 million bricks and witness firsthand what it would have been like to come face-to-face with a herd of incredible reptiles, while discovering prehistoric plants in the garden’s collection. This dino-mite brick sculpture exhibit is included with garden admission and is FREE for garden members.

February 28 through April 9, 2024
  
In the Gallery: Flora and Funga by Nicole Ousley Dittus
The details found in nature have always fascinated Nicole Ousley Dittus. She loves how the gills on the underside of a mushroom or the veins in a leaf are like a roadmap of how that foliage evolved. Trees and flowers provide a history of their development in stages; notches on a tree or a bud protruding from a stem, can be represented by a mere line or shape. In this exhibit, artistic license allows exaggeration so that the viewer can appreciate the fine details. Detailed repetition allows the viewer to take a trip through flora and fungi in a meditative way.

February 28 through April 9, 2024
  
In the Gallery: Mother Nature Manipulated by Julie Koch
Julie Koch has used different digital techniques to create unique images of flora and fauna. These images are all from original photos that have been manipulated in Photoshop. Some of the originals are nothing much to look at, but once doctored, give a stunning view of nature with different colors and contrast.

March 19-20, 2024
  
Sandhill Crane Migration Bus Tour
Journey along the Platte River Valley and experience hundreds of thousands of beautiful Sandhill cranes in their majestic migration. This is a must-see tour where you will enjoy one of nature’s treasures, and is also a great chance for unique birding and photography opportunities.

Saturday, March 23 and Sunday, March 24, 2024
  
Greater Omaha Orchid Society Orchid Show and Sale
See the latest and greatest in orchids and purchase orchid specimens and growing supplies from the most knowledgeable orchid experts in the area.

March 29 through April 8, 2024
  
Easter Extravaganza
This isn't your garden variety Easter egg hunt! The Easter bunny has an empty basket! See if you can find all 14 of his missing eggs by matching colors and patterns as you explore the spring garden.

March 29 through April 25, 2024
  
StoryWalk®: “Dig In!”
Take a stroll through the arboretum and explore all of the creepy, crawly, dirty, muddy, green, and growing things that can be found in the garden. Following along with the story “Dig In!” by Cindy Jenson-Elliott, your family can take part in some fun activities. StoryWalk® combines the love of reading with healthy, fun activities that fit the theme of the story to exercise your brain and body. Included with paid admission or with garden membership.

Sunday, March 31, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  
Easter Brunch
RESERVATIONS ARE FULL. To be placed on a waitlist, please call Brittany at (402) 346-4002, ext. 201. Celebrate Easter at Lauritzen Gardens! Stroll through the spring garden, enjoy the spring exhibit and join us for a delicious brunch buffet. Reservations are required.

Friday, April 5 from 6 to 10 p.m.
  
Dinos at the Disco
Join us for after-hours fun with a mashup of two to-the-max eras- when disco beats ruled the clubs and dinosaurs ruled the land. For one night only, our prehistoric paradise will come alive with funky vibes, and hip beats by DJ Crabrangucci. Sip on cocktails, beer, and wine as you roam around our far-out exhibit, featuring a herd of brick-built dinosaurs! Must be 21 to attend. $30, $25 for garden members. Tickets are limited. Buy yours before they go extinct!

April 12 to May 27, 2024
  
In the Gallery: Whispers in a Crowded Room by Buck Christensen
The photographs in this series of botanical portraits are inspired partly by the scientific tradition of botanical illustration, whose usual purpose is to provide a detailed depiction of species for identification, documentation, and discussion. Using a similar minimalist aesthetic as a framework, Buck Christensen's goal is to explore and highlight the amazing architecture that comprises natural botanical design and that often goes unnoticed by the naked eye, particularly the structures, patterns, colors, and textures during all phases of the plant’s lifecycle.

Saturday, April 20 from Noon to 3 p.m.
  
Fun with Fossils: Stomp Chomp Roar at Lauritzen Gardens
From noon to 2 p.m., explore Stomp Chomp Roar's fossil cart and learn all about dinosaurs with Dinosaur Ranger Anthony and his friend Paleo. Then join us on the festival garden patio from 2 to 3 p.m. for an entertaining dinosaur show and prehistoric pep rally (weather permitting)! Included with paid garden admission, free for garden members.

Sunday, April 21 from Noon to 3 p.m.
  
Fun with Fossils: Stomp Chomp Roar at Lauritzen Gardens
From noon to 2 p.m., explore Stomp Chomp Roar's fossil cart and learn all about dinosaurs with Dinosaur Ranger Anthony and his friend Paleo. Then join us on the festival garden patio from 2 to 3 p.m. for an entertaining dinosaur show and prehistoric pep rally (weather permitting)! Included with paid garden admission, free for garden members.

Friday, April 26, 2024
  
Arbor Day TREE Giveaway
Celebrate Arbor Day by taking a walk through the arboretum or the woodland walk. The first 100 households will receive a FREE tree seedling.

April 26 through June 15, 2024
  
StoryWalk®: “Feathers for Lunch”
Take a stroll through the arboretum and read about the adventures and escapades of an escaped house cat who encounters twelve common birds in the backyard. Following along with the story “Feathers for Lunch” by Lois Ehlert, your family can take part in some fun activities. StoryWalk® combines the love of reading with healthy, fun activities that fit the theme of the story to exercise your brain and body. Included with paid admission or with garden membership.

Saturday, April 27 from Noon to 3 p.m.
  
Fun with Fossils: Stomp Chomp Roar at Lauritzen Gardens
From noon to 2 p.m., explore Stomp Chomp Roar's fossil cart and learn all about dinosaurs with Dinosaur Ranger Anthony and his friend Paleo. Then join us on the festival garden patio from 2 to 3 p.m. for an entertaining dinosaur show and prehistoric pep rally (weather permitting)! Included with paid garden admission, free for garden members.

May 3 through 5, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  
Bonsai Exhibition
Members of the Nebraska Bonsai Society will share their passion for the art of styling trees and help you better understand both the art and the science of bonsai in Nebraska.

May 3 through 5, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  
Ikebana Exhibition
This Ikebana exhibition features arrangements from both classical and contemporary schools of Ikebana. Members of Ikebana International Omaha #60 will be present during show hours to meet guests and answer questions about the art of Ikebana.

Monday, May 6, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

Sunday, May 12, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  
Mother's Day Brunch
RESERVATIONS ARE FULL. To be placed on a waitlist, please call Brittany at (402) 346-4002, ext. 201. Treat the special women in your life with a day of delicious food, botanical beauty and family togetherness. Reservations are required.

Monday, May 13, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

May 30 through July 9, 2024
  
In the Gallery: Plant Folk by Anne Newman
This exhibit features a series of plant portraits. They are anthropomorphized depictions of plants in expressive motion. This series was sparked by the folkloric history of Mandrakes and continued on as an exploration of other plant species gaining consciousness and freedom of movement.

May 30 through July 9, 2024
  
In the Gallery: Plants That Make Me Happy by Megan Loudon Sanders
A collection of portraits of the artist’s houseplants and paintings inspired by flowers from their garden. Explored in a mix of grey-scale and full color.

Sunday, June 2, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  
Omaha Rose Society's Rose Day and Show
Join the Omaha Rose Society for their annual Rose Day and Show, to promote the culture and appreciation of the rose. Gardeners from throughout the region will exhibit a variety of superb rose blooms grown in their home gardens. Guests can also explore the rose garden to see more than 200 cultivars of garden roses and visit with rosarians to learn about roses and their care.

Monday, June 3, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

Thursday, June 6
  
Inspiring: Guild Luncheon featuring Christopher Spitzmiller
An artist, beekeeper, gardener, designer, and lover of antiques, Christopher Spitzmiller is known as the ultimate weekend farmer, who raises his own handsome chickens, grows his own flowers, and puts up his own jam, cider, and honey. In this presentation, he will treat luncheon guests to a full year at Clove Brook Farm, his idyllic but always-active country retreat. Mark your calendar to join the Lauritzen Gardens Guild for an entertaining, nature-centered event to benefit our public garden! Reservations will open soon.

Monday, June 10, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

June 16 through July 31, 2024
  
StoryWalk®: “Plants Can’t Sit Still”
Take a stroll through the arboretum and discover the many ways plants move. Following along with the story “Plants Can’t Sit Still” by Rebecca E. Hirsch and Mia Posada, your family can discover how active plants are and take part in some fun activities that exercise the brain and body. Included with paid admission or with garden membership.

Tuesday, June 18, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m.
  
Tempo of Twilight Outdoor Concert Series
We can’t think of a better way to spend a summer evening than listening to live music in the garden. That’s why we are so excited for Tempo of Twilight, with six summer shows from talented local bands. Make plans to join us for a harmonious blend of music and nature. Performers to be announced.

Thursday, June 20 at 7 p.m.
  
Summer Solstice Lecture with Jim Locklear
Join Jim Locklear, founding director of conservation at Lauritzen Gardens and author of In the Country of the Kaw: A Personal Natural History of the American Plains, for a joyous exploration of the realm of the Kaw River. Locklear will discuss the region's rich biological diversity and share stories of human interaction with the landscape-how nature has shaped culture and culture nature. $15, $10 for garden members.

Monday, July 1, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

Tuesday, July 2, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m.
  
Tempo of Twilight Outdoor Concert Series
We can’t think of a better way to spend a summer evening than listening to live music in the garden. That’s why we are so excited for Tempo of Twilight, with six summer shows from talented local bands. Make plans to join us for a harmonious blend of music and nature. Performers to be announced.

Monday, July 8, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

July 12 through August 18, 2024
  
In the Gallery: From a Naturalist's Sketchbook to a Cathedral Window by Allison Borgschulte
Inspired by backyard forests and nearby nature centers of her youth, naturalist, storyteller, and artist Allison Borgschulte has created a captivating collection of works by observing the natural world. Using glass as a medium to utilize the transmission of light and brilliancy of the glass colors to enhance the beauty of her subjects, she hopes to capture the viewer’s interest as hers has been captured by nature.

July 12 through August 18, 2024
  
In the Gallery: Nature in Motion by Cortney Christensen

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m.
  
Tempo of Twilight Outdoor Concert Series
We can’t think of a better way to spend a summer evening than listening to live music in the garden. That’s why we are so excited for Tempo of Twilight, with six summer shows from talented local bands. Make plans to join us for a harmonious blend of music and nature. Performers to be announced.

Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m.
  
Tempo of Twilight Outdoor Concert Series
We can’t think of a better way to spend a summer evening than listening to live music in the garden. That’s why we are so excited for Tempo of Twilight, with six summer shows from talented local bands. Make plans to join us for a harmonious blend of music and nature. Performers to be announced.

August 1 through September 15, 2024
  
StoryWalk®: “Nothing Scares Spider!”
There's NOTHING to be scared of . . . or is there? Take a stroll through the arboretum and go on an adventure with the fearless Spider and her friends. Following along with the story “Nothing Scares Spider” by S. Marendaz, your family will encounter fearsome fish, hungry birds, and hairy beasts and can take part in some fun activities. StoryWalk® combines the love of reading with healthy, fun activities that fit the theme of the story to exercise your brain and body. Included with paid admission or with garden membership.

Monday, August 5, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

Monday, August 12, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

Tuesday, August 13, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m.
  
Tempo of Twilight Outdoor Concert Series
We can’t think of a better way to spend a summer evening than listening to live music in the garden. That’s why we are so excited for Tempo of Twilight, with six summer shows from talented local bands. Make plans to join us for a harmonious blend of music and nature. Performers to be announced.

August 21 through September 19, 2024
  
In the Gallery: A Balm In Quiet Beat by Jordan Acker Anderson
Jordan Acker Anderson will exhibit new paintings inspired by the botanical collection at Lauritzen Gardens. The work will be representative of the artist’s style in abstract symbolism, repetitive mark making, and vibrant color. Her paintings are visual meditations on our impermanence, awareness of cyclical time, and connection with nature.

August 21 through September 19, 2024
  
In the Gallery: Posthumous Commentary by Gabriella Quiroz
A new collection of works by Nebraska-based artist Gabriella Quiroz, featuring symbolic imagery of flora and fauna rendered in oil paints and colored pencil.

Tuesday, August 27, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m.
  
Tempo of Twilight Outdoor Concert Series
We can’t think of a better way to spend a summer evening than listening to live music in the garden. That’s why we are so excited for Tempo of Twilight, with six summer shows from talented local bands. Make plans to join us for a harmonious blend of music and nature. Performers to be announced.

Monday, September 2, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

Sunday, September 8, 2024 from noon to 3 p.m.
  
All-European Show and Shine
See fine European cars and motorcycles staged against a lush background.

Monday, September 9, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

2024 dates TBD
  
Wicked Plants Display
While there are far more heroes than villains in the botanical world, some plants are REALLY wicked. This display will showcase plants from our collection that poison, paralyze, puncture, intoxicate, eat flesh, and otherwise offend, some of which we commonly grow in our homes and gardens.

September 26 through 29, 2024
  
Lauritzen Gardens Antiques Show
In the Gallery: Vida by Gerardo Diaz Jr.

October 4 through November 12, 2024
  
In the Gallery: Wicked Plants by Carmen McCullough
Inspired by Lauritzen Gardens' exhibit Wicked Plants, this collection of mixed media works reflects the dark obsession of a curious botanist logging sketches, photos, handwritten notes, and various ephemera in their research journal. From nightshade to hemlock, you'll see species that are beautiful and sometimes helpful, but can also cause discomfort, pain, and even death.

October 5 and 6, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  
Japanese Ambience Festival
For an entire weekend, the garden grounds are alive with merriment as guests celebrate the joys of autumn and experience the Japanese culture first-hand.

Monday, October 7, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

Monday, October 14, 2024 from 5 to 8 p.m.
  
Leashes at Lauritzen
The garden has gone to the dogs! Bring your canine friends to walk the grounds and enjoy the great outdoors together.

2024 date TBD
  
SPOOKY SPIRITS
The garden will transform into a captivating realm of after-hours fun, foliage and SPOOKY SPIRITS. Get ready to sip on themed cocktails amidst lush greenery and bewitching blooms. Delight in tantalizing treats from Abraham Catering, engage in playful garden games, and enjoy bone-chilling entertainment during this adults-only escapade.

Sunday, October 27 from noon to 4 p.m.
  
Ghoulish Garden Adventure
Come join the fun! Discover the things in nature that make the fall so festive! Dress in costume and explore a variety of fun and educational activity stations throughout the garden.

Thursday, November 7 at 7 p.m.
  
Loveland Garden Club Lecture with Camille T. Dungy
Join us for an evening with award-winning poet and celebrated author Camille T. Dungy. In Soil: The Story of a Black Mother's Garden, Dungy recounts the 7-year odyssey to diversify her garden to reflect her heritage in a predominately white community. Don't miss this discussion that will examine history, the environment, social justice, culture, and family and expand how we all talk about the natural world. $15, $10 for garden members.

November 15, 2024 through January 2, 2025
  
In the Gallery: Blooms, Birds, Bees & Butterflies, the Nature of Nebraska by Deb Kubik
A collection of original works by Deb Kubik, focusing on a variety of natural subjects from colorful blooms to fluttering birds, bees, and butterflies.

November 15, 2024 through January 2, 2025
  
In the Gallery: Santas and Christmas Spirits by Greg MacDonald and Mell Smith
One-of-a-kind wood carved and hand-painted Santas and Christmas Spirits. Bark is gathered from fallen trees and all cracks, knots, etc. are incorporated into the design to give each piece its unique character.

2024 dates to be announced
  
Merry and Bright - Holiday Poinsettia Show
Whether it’s a visit to the iconic 20’ tall poinsettia tree, a tour through the lush conservatory to see the holiday express, roasting marshmallows on the festival garden patio, or finding the perfect gift in the gift shop, there is a natural magic at Lauritzen Gardens that makes the season Merry & Bright. The garden closes at 4 p.m. with the last daytime entry at 3 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Daytime tickets DO NOT include admission to Bright Nights.

2024 dates to be announced
  
Bright Nights
Set a merry mood with friends and family and explore the illuminated indoor gardens. From a 20’ tall poinsettia tree to a tropical paradise, see festive installations that glow and shine, showcasing nature in a new light. Timed tickets are required for this event.

2024 dates to be announced
  
Lights and Libations
Join us on select Fridays during Bright Nights as we treat guests to evenings full of lights and libations! On December 8, 15, and 22, cash-only bars will serve up an array of cocktails, beers, and wines. Stroll through the indoor gardens, drink in hand, while enjoying the illuminated displays. Great for date night or for a cheerful night with friends and family. All ages may attend these evenings, but guests must be 21 with a valid ID to enter the bar area. Advance timed tickets for Bright Nights are required.

2024 date to be announced
  
Family Fun Night with a visit from Santa!
Buy a Bright Nights ticket for December 10 and enjoy an evening of festive fun for families! Visit with Santa Claus, hear a seasonal story, make an ornament, meet the Omaha Police Department Mounted Patrol, play games, get your face painted, watch LED performers from Omaha Circus Arts, and more!

Various dates and times
  
Holiday Harmony
Join us during the holiday season to listen to live music amid the festive garden surroundings. Visitors are invited to stroll through the poinsettia show or cozy up next to the fireplace and enjoy lunch or a snack. 

Wednesday, February 14 from 6 to 9 p.m.
  
Valentine's Day Dinner
RESERVATIONS ARE FULL. Join us for an intimate Valentine's Day dinner. Reservations will open January 3, 2024. For inquiries, contact us at (402) 346-4002, ext. 201 or b.brice@omahabotanicalgardens.org
Copyright © 2024 Lauritzen Gardens - Omaha's Botanical Center

Website created by Web Solutions Omaha
Comodo SSL