Omaha Children’s Museum celebrates the First Day of Summer on June 20. And while that’s great, we all get into a summer state of mind a lot sooner. The museum has plenty planned before June 20 – and lots more after June 20 – so your family can stay in your summer state of mind forever (or until school starts back up).
Here’s what to look forward to this summer
1. Saturday, May 23. Yes, look forward to this entire day. It’s starts off with Omaha’s only Children’s Parade at 9 a.m. You might just want to take part in the LEGO-themed float contest (decorate trikes, strollers and wagons) for $5 and then you have the chance to win a family getaway to Kansas City. The getaway includes admission passes to LEGOLAND Sea Life, a T-bones game, dinner at T-Rex Café and more. Don’t want to do a themed float? Your family can still march in the parade for free! Register here.
After the parade, head inside to explore the grand opening of OCM’s summer exhibits: LEGO Travel Adventure and Fairytale Land + the brand new permanent exhibit, Hy-Vee Grocery Store.
2. LEGO® Travel Adventure. I know my kids are going to love this 10,000-square-foot exhibit! There will be costume bins, build and play tables, travel tracks and a lot more. It’s open May 23 through Sept. 6.
3. Hy-Vee Grocery Store. The old grocery store has been spiffed up to be Omaha’s newest Hy-Vee (but kid-sized and without the cookie samples). New stuff to look for is the chance to build and decorate a layer cake, serve up a slice of pizza at the Hy-Vee Italian Express and grill some juicy steaks.
4. Fairytale Land. Remember this from last summer? The princesses and knight are back for daily programs featuring sing-alongs, dancing and make believe. It’s free with admission. Don’t dilly dally going there, Fairytale Land is only open May 23 through Aug. 16.
5. Fairytale Land tea parties. Prince Poppy and friends will be hosting some lovely dinners for Omaha’s princesses and knights, complete with sandwiches and drinks, for the family. See the dates below. You’ll have to head here for more details and to RSVP. The cost is $25 for kids, and $10 for adults.
June 12, 13, 26, 27 from 6 to 8 p.m.
July 10, 11, 24, 25, 31 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Aug. 1, 7, 8 from 6 to 8 p.m.
6. LEGO Master Night. Enjoy open play in the whole museum after hours on July 17 from 6 to 8 p.m., learning what it takes to be a true Lego master from the professionals. There will be games, crafts and a few character surprises, plus a pizza dinner. Tickets are $25 for children, $10 for adults; space is limited.
7. The Creative Arts Center. Have a little artist at home? You probably find yourself at the Creative Arts Center every time you go to the museum. Check out what themes they have planned this summer: June is All About Beads, July is Messy Art, and August is Back to School Fun.
8. Special Sundays. There are a couple Sunday events this summer that might be right up your alley. On June 21, celebrate Father’s Day with special activities throughout the museum from from 1 to 5 p.m. Patriot’s Weekend is held July 5 from 1 to 5 p.m. with patriotic activities planned. Families with children on the Autism Spectrum may attend the free Autism Night, Aug. 30 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. It features an appropriate and supportive environment for play.
9. Worldfest. Held on two days – Aug. 9 and 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. – Worldfest brings your littles to Omaha’s Sister Cities around the world. It’s a chance to learn about different cultures through trying food, playing games and watching performances. On Aug. 9, visit Germany, Lithuania and Japan, and on Aug. 16, visit China, Mexico and Ireland.
10. Back to School Bash. All day on Aug. 8 (well, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), your kids can join in on one last party this summer. Stations include bookmark or science notebook decorating, a science show and make-your-own pencil case. It’s all included with admission.
Disclaimer: I’ve partnered with Omaha Children’s Museum to present quarterly sponsored posts. All opinions are my own, as are all typos.