HERO area
The Weekender highlights free(ish) student-focused social events happening on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons and evenings. All students are welcome.
November 5, 6, 7, 8
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, November 5, 2026
Popcorn Pop-Up
Nebraska Union Room: The Crib
The best hour of the week! Every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. pop into The Crib for an afternoon social hour with 100s of other Huskers.
It’s free and every student, staff, and faculty is welcome.
Snack on fresh-popped popcorn directly from the kettle. Join in the activity while learning about campus organizations and departments. Mingle with friends and new acquaintances.
**********
What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
Details5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, November 6, 2026
First Friday: One Piece at a Time
Architecture Hall West Room: T-Studio/ HDR Pavilion Lobby
On November 6 from 5-7 p.m., stop by the HDR Pavilion Lobby/T-Studio in Architecture Hall to experience One Piece at a Time - A Co-Creational Speculation on Mass Timber in North America (OPAT) by Professor Jason Griffiths.
One Piece at a Time is an architectural assemblage of mass timber components gathered during Griffiths’ 2024 sabbatical road trip to universities across North America. The project brings together multiple participants in a conversation about how we build with wood and explores the diverse approaches to forestry, mass timber and construction across the United States.
Details9:00 am – 4:00 pm, November 8, 2026
Fall Colors Hike
Outdoor Adventures Center
Need a quick escape from the city? Join Outdoor Adventures for a day of hiking at Platte River State Park. You’ll enjoy beautiful fall colors and scenic views of the Platte River, a delicous lunch, and great conversations with fellow hikers. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy the outdoors close to home.
The cost of this trip covers all of the transportation, activity-related gear, meals while at the activity site, permits, leadership, and instruction for the program.
https://crec.unl.edu/activities/outdoor-adventures/adventure-trips-clinics/
Details11:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 6, 2026
Fall 2026 Tea Time
Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center Room: 302
Stop by the Kawasaki Reading Room on the 3rd floor of the Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center every Friday from 11am to 4pm to enjoy fresh tea
Details12:00 pm – 1:30 pm, November 5, 2026
Cooking Demo for Students
University Health Center and College of Nursing Room: First Floor Kitchen
Join the UNL campus registered dietitians to learn how to prepare diabetes-friendly, immunity-boosting dishes.
You must register to attend. Limited to 10 attendees; first come, first served. Please only register if you can show up, otherwise, you will be taking a spot for someone who may want to attend.
Registration will automatically close when 10 people have signed up.
https://health.unl.edu/cooking-demos/
Details5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, November 6, 2026
November First Friday at Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon Museum of Art
Start your weekend at Sheldon Museum of Art. UNL graduate student poets will read their original poetry, inspired by art on view, in the galleries starting at 6 p.m.
Before the poetry readings, join a tour of “Remembering Modern Art” at 5:30 p.m. Admission is always free and everyone is welcome.
Funding was provided by Humanities Nebraska and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.
https://sheldonartmuseum.doubleknot.com/event/november-first-friday/3159103
Details5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, November 6, 2026
Lazzi Improv Show
Nebraska Union & Chimney Rock Room
A free comedy improv show put on for the public!
Details5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, November 6, 2026
First Friday at the Great Plains Art Museum
Great Plains Art Museum
The Great Plains Art Museum is open late Nov. 6, 5-7 p.m. with three exhibitions and light refreshments.
On View:
“Elsewhere / The Prairie Was Ours”
August 25-December 19, 2026 | Lower-level Gallery
“Jennifer Angus: Like a Moth to the Flame”
August 7-December 19, 2026 | First-Floor Galleries
“Moving with the Hydrocommons”
August 7-December 19, 2026 | Mezzanine Gallery
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, November 6, 2026
First Friday at The Eloise Kruger Gallery of Miniatures
Oldfather Hall Room: Room 831
Step into a World in Miniature!
Join us for First Friday in the Gallery, our monthly open house at The Eloise Kruger Gallery of Miniatures. Wander through tiny worlds, discover remarkable craftsmanship, and enjoy an afternoon of big imagination in small scale.
Admission is always free and open to the public.
Details4:00 pm – 5:00 pm, November 6, 2026
Japanese Conversation Table
Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center Room: Room 301
Interested in practicing your Japanese? Come Join us every Friday from 4 to 5 PM at Kawasaki Reading Room (JGMC Room 301).
Details4:00 pm – 6:00 pm, November 6, 2026
Blind Box Bingo: Bigger & Better
The Ballroom
Back by popular demand! Take part in the blind box craze through competitive rounds of bingo with your friends! Enjoy rounds of traditional bingo mixed with fun variations!
We took your feedback from the last event: More Bingo Sheets, More Seating, and More Blind Boxes!!!
Winners will get to leave with popular, authentic blind boxes.
Now with EVEN MORE Blind Boxes from popular brands like POP MART, MINISO, and SMISKI!
Details4:30 pm – 7:00 pm, November 5, 2026
Movie Night: Monster’s University
Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center-Van Brunt Visitors Center Room: Cooper Theater
Monsters University captures the classic first-generation college experience: Mike Wazowski arrives with big dreams, zero built-in family connections or legacy status, and a stark realization that institutional rules weren’t designed with underdogs in mind.
Every ticket holder will receive popcorn and a soda to enjoy throughout the movie.
Registration required: sign up at https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12907986
Arrive by 4:30 PM - screening will start at 5 pm.
November 12, 13, 14, 15
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, November 12, 2026
Popcorn Pop-Up
Nebraska Union Room: The Crib
The best hour of the week! Every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. pop into The Crib for an afternoon social hour with 100s of other Huskers.
It’s free and every student, staff, and faculty is welcome.
Snack on fresh-popped popcorn directly from the kettle. Join in the activity while learning about campus organizations and departments. Mingle with friends and new acquaintances.
**********
What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
Details4:30 pm - 5:30 pm, November 12, 2026
Ginger Bread House Decorations
Willa Cather Dining Center
Join us for a fun gingerbread house decorating event where everyone can get creative, decorate, and enjoy time together!
DetailsStarts at 7:30 pm, November 13, 2026
Arcadia
Temple Building Room: Howell Theater
Moving fluidly between the early 19th century and the present day, Arcadia intertwines mathematics, science, romantic entanglements, and literary inquiry in a richly layered exploration of time, knowledge, and the pursuit of truth. At once intellectually rigorous and deeply human, it is a play that delights in language while asking enduring questions about what we can know and what remains forever elusive
Details2:00 pm – 3:00 pm, November 14, 2026
Drop-In Tour at Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon Museum of Art
Explore the many forms of abstract art on view at Sheldon Museum of Art with a Sheldon educator. Through guided looking and conversation, discover how artists express ideas beyond representation.
Tours at Sheldon are free, but space is limited. Advanced registration is encouraged.
https://sheldonartmuseum.doubleknot.com/event/drop-in-tour-abstract-approaches/3159169
Details6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, November 14, 2026
Pitch Please Family/Friends Night!
Nebraska Union: The Crib
On Friday, November 14th, Pitch Please is hosting a quick performance to showcase what we've been working on this semester! Consider it a little sneak peek before our Fall Show :) Come to the UNL Crib at 7pm to this FREE performance, free will donation only. We look forward to seeing you there!
Details5:30 pm – 7:00 pm, November 13, 2026
Life in Lincoln: Airport Extras
Lincoln Airport
Get an inside look at the newly renovated Lincoln Airport! This unique experience will provide students with a wealth of knowledge about airport operations through an engaging presentation, followed by an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the facility.
Participants will have the opportunity to explore areas not typically open to the public while learning how the airport functions day-to-day. Don’t miss this chance to discover what keeps Lincoln’s airport running and see it from a whole new perspective.
Details2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, November 15, 2026
Family Day at Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon Museum of Art
Inspired by the exhibition “Gender, Genre, Generation,” join artist Anne Burton for a hands-on exploration of abstract mark-making. Families are invited to participate in a hands-on art activity, enjoy gallery experiences, and share a free snack together.
Family Days at Sheldon are free and open to all families, but advanced registration is encouraged.
https://sheldonartmuseum.doubleknot.com/event/family-day-with-anne-burton/3159195
DetailsNovember 19, 20, 21, 22
Starts at 4:30 pm, November 19, 2026
Thanksgiving Feast
East, Cather & Harper Dining Centers
Join us for a Thanksgiving feast featuring traditional Thanksgiving favorites! Take a break from the semester and come enjoy great food, warm company, and the spirit of gratitude. We’re thankful to have you as part of our community!
East Campus: 11am - 2pm; 4:30pm - 7pm
Cather & Harper: 4:30pm - 8pm. Note the hour change for Harper!
Halal Turkey will be available at the Cather Dining Center upon request.
Selleck and Abel will be offering Thanksgiving specials throughout the week.
Menus will be posted on menu.unl.edu.
11:30 am – 1:30 pm, November 20, 2026
Stuff-a-Plush: Holiday Edition
Nebraska East Union Room: Great Plains Room A
Back by popular demand, Stuff-A-Plush is getting a festive holiday makeover! Bring your friends and stop by to build your very own 16-inch stuffed animal, perfect to keep for yourself or give as a gift.
Attendees will get to create their plush companion and dress it in a custom UPC Nebraska t-shirt or festive holiday costume. With a wide variety of animals to choose from, everyone can find their perfect plush.
Kits are limited and will be available while supplies last. Each attendee is limited to one kit, so be sure to arrive early!
This event is free and open to all UNL students, faculty, and staff with an Event Pass.
Details6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, November 19, 2026
CNL Live
Regency Suite, Nebraska Union
Join us for a game show night with chances to win big prizes! Team up with your friends for Family Feud to try and guess the most popular survey answer of your peers.
Enjoy other fun games and mocktails throughout the night, bring your friends, cheer each other on, and get ready for an evening of game show excitement!
Details3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, November 19, 2026
Popcorn Pop-Up
Nebraska Union Room: The Crib
The best hour of the week! Every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. pop into The Crib for an afternoon social hour with 100s of other Huskers.
It’s free and every student, staff, and faculty is welcome.
Snack on fresh-popped popcorn directly from the kettle. Join in the activity while learning about campus organizations and departments. Mingle with friends and new acquaintances.
**********
What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
Details11:00 am – 5:00 pm, November 20, 2026
Fall 2026 Tea Time
Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center Room: 302
Stop by the Kawasaki Reading Room on the 3rd floor of the Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center every Friday from 11am to 4pm to enjoy fresh tea
Details11:00 am – 2:00 pm, November 19, 2026
Thanksgiving Feast - Lunch
Nebraska East Union
Join us for a Thanksgiving feast featuring traditional Thanksgiving favorites! Take a break from the semester and come enjoy great food, warm company, and the spirit of gratitude. We’re thankful to have you as part of our community!
East Campus: 11am - 2pm; 4:30pm - 7pm
Cather & Harper: 4:30pm - 8pm. Note the hour change for Harper!
Selleck and Abel will be offering Thanksgiving specials throughout the week.
Menus will be posted on menu.unl.edu.
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM, November 20, 2026
Life in Lincoln: Thanksgiving Traditions
University Health Center
Join Life in Lincoln for “Thanksgiving Traditions,” a festive cooking class where you’ll learn how to create classic Thanksgiving side dishes that bring comfort and flavor to the holiday table!
Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving for the first time or looking to recreate a taste of home, this event is a great way to learn new skills, connect with others, and enjoy the spirit of the season.
Be sure to RSVP below so we can accommodate dietary needs and ensure a safe and inclusive experience for everyone!
DetailsStarts at 7:15 pm, November 22, 2026
The Skin I Live In
Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center-Van Brunt Visitors Center Room: Ross Theater (Room 124)
THE SKIN I LIVE IN (2011) | Ever since his beloved wife was horribly burned in an auto accident, Dr. Robert Ledgard (Antonio Banderas), a skilled plastic surgeon, has tried to develop a new skin that could save the lives of burn victims. Finally, after 12 years, Ledgard has created a skin that guards the body, but is still sensitive to touch. With the aid of his faithful housekeeper (Marisa Paredes), Ledgard tests his creation on Vera (Elena Anaya), who is held prisoner against her will in the doctor’s mansion.
https://theross.org/film/the-skin-i-live-in/
Tickets: $10 GENERAL ADMISSION | $5 MEMBERS & UNL STUDENTS.
DetailsDecember 3, 4, 5, 6
1:00 pm – 11:55 pm, December 5, 2026
Bowling at Husker Bowling Center
Nebraska East Union Room: Husker Bowling Center
*Spare* yourself the stress of finals and take a break from studying with a FREE round of bowling at the Husker Bowling Center!
Located on the 1st floor of the Nebraska East Union, the Husker Bowling Center is the perfect spot to unwind, recharge and enjoy some friendly competition before finals week.
Free and open to all students! Drop-ins are welcome (based on availability), or you can reserve a lane online for free using the event website link.
Don’t forget your socks, bring your friends and roll into finals week with a little fun!
https://unions.unl.edu/husker-bowling-center/
Details3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, December 3, 2026
Popcorn Pop-Up
Nebraska Union Room: The Crib
The best hour of the week! Every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. pop into The Crib for an afternoon social hour with 100s of other Huskers.
It’s free and every student, staff, and faculty is welcome.
Snack on fresh-popped popcorn directly from the kettle. Join in the activity while learning about campus organizations and departments. Mingle with friends and new acquaintances.
**********
What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
DetailsStarts at 1:30 pm, December 6, 2026
Blow Out
Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center-Van Brunt Visitors Center Room: Ross Theater (Room 123)
Join us in celebrating the 45th anniversary of Friends of The Ross with special screenings of movies released in 1981! In the enthralling Blow Out, brilliantly crafted by Brian De Palma, John Travolta gives one of his greatest performances, as a film sound-effects man who believes he has accidentally recorded a political assassination. To uncover the truth, he enlists the help of a possible eyewitness to the crime (Nancy Allen), who may be in danger herself. With its jolting stylistic flourishes, intricate plot, profoundly felt characterizations, and gritty evocation of early-1980s Philadelphia, Blow Out is an American paranoia thriller unlike any other, as well as a devilish reflection on moviemaking.
Admission for FRIENDS 45 screenings is FREE for current Friends of The Ross members, $10 for general admission, and $5 for UNL students. Visit theross.org for tickets, show times, and more information.
https://theross.org/film/blow-out/
Details