My family loves free outdoor concerts. As much as I’d love to sit back and swirl some wine, eat some good food while my children calmly sit listening to the music, the reality is that outdoor concerts are cause for dancing and running amok for my kids. My kids hear music, they feel the need to either dance, roll down a hill or wander around nosing other people’s food.
I’ve come to expect it.
I get nervous when it occurs in crowds. It’s a more enjoyable night for all if I can track them easily.
We took the kids to Bridge Beats recently and the expected happened. They did want to dance. They did want to wander. They were, luckily, easy to monitor.
Bridge Beats is in its second year at the base of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge along the Missouri River (Omaha side). The concert is held in the spray garden area – I’ll state the obvious, the water was turned off. Most people sit on the grassy hill facing the river, making for a nice view of the water and bridge.
Most of the audience opted for grass seating, though you could sit on the cement steps of the little amphitheater.
The smaller amphitheater was more intimate than other places we’ve been (here’s a list of free outdoor concerts). The lineup is all local. Parking is free.
We brought our own food and drink, not knowing whether or not you could bring beer and wine with your (apparently you can). You can buy food and drinks (including beer) at the Storz trailer on-site.
Everyone’s got to take the state line photo from the bridge.
If you’re coming with little ones, expect a walk on the bridge – it’s right there.
One of the sculptures located near the National Park Service building.
There’s a small field nearby for running, or you can check out the little garden at the National Park Service building.
Remaining concerts
Concerts begin at 6 p.m. with an opener; headliner starts at 7 p.m.
Friday –Willis. The trio’s original material is more in the alternative rock vein, but the group is known for covering everything from Johnny Cash to the latest R&B tunes.
June 27 – Le Grand & Company, a Tribute to Rock Legends. This family friendly group is sure to have you up on your feet and feeling good, busting out grooves by the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Queen and the Kinks as well as American bands like Lenny Kravitz, Foreigner, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Eagles, Georgia Satellites, Stray Cats, Stevie Ray Vaughan and much more.
What to bring:
Chairs or blankets for seating
Food
Beverages, especially water
A few toys for younger children wouldn’t hurt – bubbles are always a hit
Risa
Friday 11th of July 2014
I'm a little bummed I missed this. It would have been fun!