Omaha Events March 12–18, 2026: Concerts, St. Patrick's Day, and City News

Spring is almost here, and this week's edition is packed with big local news, fresh food spots, and plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy the city.

Here's what's inside this week:

From city hall to your dinner plate, there's a lot happening. Let's get into it!

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🏗️ "Stadium District" Development Seeks $48M in TIF Funding
Union Omaha's proposed multi-million-dollar Stadium District near downtown could transform a 25-acre vacant lot across from Charles Schwab Field. The new soccer stadium and mixed-use development would create 200 jobs and enable hosting over 100 annual events including concerts, community gatherings, and international sports competitions.

🌳 Nebraska's Warmest Winter Since Dust Bowl Concerns Ranchers
This winter ranks as Nebraska's third-warmest on record, with the western half experiencing its warmest ever. Expanding drought conditions now affect 77% of the state, up from just 9% in October. Ranchers worry about summer pasture quality and forage availability as dry conditions persist.

🏗️ Rare Earth Mineral Mine Breaks Ground Ahead of Schedule
NioCorp's Elk Creek mine in Johnson County reached a major milestone, breaking ground four to five months early. The $1.2 billion project will produce niobium, scandium, and other rare earth minerals domestically, reducing U.S. dependence on imports. The mine is expected to begin production in 2029.

The commercial real estate playbook is being rewritten—and Brightway Commercial's expertise is where businesses are putting their trust for measurable savings. The company specializes in tenant representation, investment sales, and strategic consulting that protects your bottom line.

Why smart businesses choose Brightway:

🚋 Omaha's Streetcar Tab Just Jumped Another $70 Million
The city council approved yet another round of streetcar funding — up to $70 million in new bonds. This is the fourth time more money has been added to the project. It covers the actual streetcars, a maintenance building, and all the track work downtown. Some people filed formal written objections this time around. Costs keep climbing, and many Omahans are asking: how much more?

🏘️ North 24th Street Is Getting a Brand-New Community Hub
A new three-story community center is planned for 2601 N. 24th Street in North Omaha. It'll have street-level shops, a space for events, second-floor classrooms, and offices on the third floor. The city is helping fund it with $1.1 million in TIF money — meaning the taxes the new building creates help pay for the building itself. A public hearing is set for today, March 10.

🚦 Dangerous 72nd & Blondo Intersection Is Finally Getting Fixed
If you've ever driven through 72nd and Blondo, you know it can be a nightmare. The city approved $837,500 to team up with the state on safety improvements at that busy intersection. The goal is simple: fewer crashes. Federal and state dollars are also pitching in. Specific changes — like new signals, turn lanes, or crosswalks — are still being finalized, but relief is on the way.

Watch the City Council meeting here.

Johnny's Café just landed a major honor — the James Beard Foundation named it a 2026 America's Classics award winner, recognizing it as a timeless, community-rooted gem. It's one of only six restaurants nationwide to receive the award this year, representing the Midwest region. Stop by and show them some love at 4702 South 27th Street.

Taqueria Tijuana kept the momentum going by swinging open the doors to their third Omaha spot this past Saturday at 307 North 114th Street. The new location takes over a 2,250 sq. ft. space that used to be a Which Wich. If you haven't tried their originals, they're also at 5139 South 24th Street and 12242 K Plaza.

Misolado Crafted Ramen has some good news for midday noodle lovers — they've added lunch hours to their schedule, now open Wednesday through Sunday starting at noon. It's a great excuse to finally check them out if you haven't yet. Head over to 7425 Dodge Street near 72nd and Dodge.

Pollo Feliz is bringing its legendary charcoal-grilled chicken to Nebraska for the very first time, with an opening set for this Friday, March 13th. The brand has been a massive hit in Mexico since 1975, with over 1,000 locations there, but U.S. spots are still pretty rare. Catch them at 513 Fort Crook Road North in Bellevue.

A new restaurant concept may be taking shape Downtown — a building permit was recently filed under the name Sakura Ichiban Co. for an interior remodel at 1105 Harney Street. This comes after earlier reports that a second Yoshitomo location was being planned for that address. Details are still unfolding, so stay tuned.

Geoffrey's Café is coming to Westroads Mall inside the Toys R Us flagship store, according to a recently filed building permit. The café concept — known for milkshakes, coffee, gelato, and ice cream — already has a location at the American Dream mall in New Jersey. It's a fun little addition to what's already a nostalgic destination.

Q: Set in Falls City, Nebraska, "Boys Don't Cry" is a 1999 biopic of transgender man Brandon Teena. Which Nebraska-born actress, who would win a second Oscar for playing boxer Maggie Fitzgerald, won a Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal of Brandon?

(Answer below.)

Play Word Search! New Nebraska themed game every day.

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A: Hilary Swank