Beat the Heat with Summer Activities in Lincoln

Haymarket Farmers Market is one of the most loved summer events in Lincoln.

As the capital and second-most populous city of the state of Nebraska, Lincoln is never short of fun things to do. From checking out a Broadway production at the Lied Center to touring the campus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Star City won’t disappoint. So if you happen to be in the area this summer, check out these great activities to beat the heat and stay busy in Lincoln.

Haymarket Farmers Market

One of the most loved events in Lincoln, folks look forward to the Haymarket Farmers Market in downtown every year, where vendors set up, rain or shine, to provide the public with the best in locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as baked goods and other readymade treats like egg rolls, kebabs, sandwiches and much more.

When: May through October

Where: 7^th and P Streets, Lincoln, NE 68508

Celebrate Lincoln

The Celebrate Lincoln festival turns the streets of downtown Lincoln into a wonderful place to eat, dance and play. This year’s attendees can check out the musical stylings of Bad Company, Randy Houser and Lee Brice while chowing down on delicious food from all over the world, including Greece, Africa, Italy, Asia and Mexico, and refreshing beverages. Kids will stay entertained in the Family Zone, and you can browse the Market Place to shop for unique products.

When: June 8-9, 2012

Where: 12^th and N Streets, Lincoln, NE 68508

Uncle Sam Jam Independence Day

Celebrate our nation’s independence at the Uncle Sam Jam. The Lincoln City Parks and Recreation Department will provide free activities during the day, including canoeing, disc golf, volleyball, bocce ball, horseshoes, three-legged and potato races and more, with food and concessions available throughout the day. The fireworks show will begin promptly at 10 p.m.

When: July 3, 2012

Where: Oak Lake Park, 1^st and Charleston, Lincoln, NE 68508

Capital City Ribfest

As the largest, most popular summer event in downtown Lincoln, Capital City Ribfest is a four day summer street festival featuring award-winning barbecue from pit bosses from near and far and live music from the best local and regional talent, including folk, classic rock, blues and country music artists. Participating rib vendors have traveled as far as Sydney, Australia to provide the public with tasty barbecue.

When: August 9-12, 2012

Where: Pershing Auditorium, 226 Centennial Mall South, Lincoln, NE 68508

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Baloncici