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.
The Weekender returns in August 2026
with a new listing of fall semester events.
Enjoy the summer.
August 20, 21, 22, 23
7:30 am – 11:30 pm, August 21, 2026
Corn Quest
Love Library North & South
We’ve hidden corn throughout the library, and each cob is packed with a kernel of knowledge to help you thrive this semester.
Count every cob you find while discovering quick tips about research help, study spaces, technology, and other library resources.
Submit your final count by August 31 for a chance to win a prize: https://go.unl.edu/cornquest
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm, August 21, 2026
Chancellor’s BBQ
Nebraska Union Room: Meier Commons
Join your fellow incoming students from the Class of 2030 for the Chancellor’s BBQ - a free outdoor picnic dinner in the heart of campus! Meet Interim Chancellor Kathy Ankerson, college deans, university administrators, and more than 4,000 of your newest Husker classmates as we kick off the year together.
Stick around to enjoy yard games, music, a photo booth, and a fun, relaxed evening outside with new friends and the Husker community.
Details6:00 pm – 11:55 pm, August 21, 2026
Bowling at Husker Bowling Center
Nebraska East Union Room: Husker Bowling Center
*Spare* yourself the stress of finding something to do after a big week of moving in, and join us for a round of FREE bowling at the Husker Bowling Center! Located on the 1st Floor of the Nebraska East Union.
Free & open to all students. You can drop-in (limited availability) or reserve a lane online for free at the website link for the event.
Don’t forget to bring socks and some friendly competition!
https://unions.unl.edu/husker-bowling-center/
Details6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, August 23, 2026
Big Red Welcome Street Festival I a.k.a Free “Stuff” Sunday
Memorial Stadium Room: The Loop
Engage with hundreds of booths hosted by local businesses, nonprofit organizations, UNL departments, student groups and more! Music, free food and giveaways galore! Don’t miss this signature event!
Bring your phone and scan the QR code at the entrance for a chance to win prize packages!
9:00 pm – 10:00 pm, August 21, 2026
Mind Games by Paul Ramsay
Willa Cather Dining Complex Room: Red Cloud
Prepare to be captivated while having your reality shattered as the Residence Hall Association (RHA) proudly presents a FREE performance of hilarious hypnotism with the extraordinary Paul Ramsay.
Hypnotist Paul Ramsay’s “Mind Games” show breaks the mold of stage hypnotism. Using interactive polling software and remote controls, audience members steer the course of the show by voting on what they want to see happen on stage.
Don’t miss this mind-blowing event. You won’t believe your eyes - or your mind!
https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12485976
Details2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, August 21, 2026
Trivia and Tazza
Nebraska Union Room: Regency/Heritage Room
Test your knowledge with fun trivia, win awesome prizes, and build your own custom drink at our Dirty Soda Bar hosted by Tazza. Bring your friends, meet fellow Huskers, and start your year with a sweet treat and some friendly competition!
Details12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, August 21, 2026
Commuter Student Lunch and Campus Tour
Willa Cather Dining Complex Room: Lark Room within Dining Hall
Commuter students are invited to join us for a free lunch in Cather Dining Center. Get to know other commuter students and chat with Orientation leaders to get your questions answered. After lunch, we will do class routes tours around campus!
https://bigredwelcome.unl.edu/
DetailsStarts at 10:00 am, August 22, 2026
Haymarket/Farmer’s Market Tour
Join the orientation leaders and head to the Haymarket to enjoy one of Lincoln’s staple weekend events- The Farmer’s Market. Support local businesses, stop by a local coffee shop, grab a tasty treat, and browse hundreds of vendors.
Details4:30 pm – 5:30 pm, August 21, 2026
Transfer Student Welcome
Love Library North, Behind Dunkin’ Donuts
Kick off your Nebraska adventure at this year’s Transfer Student Welcome.
You’ll meet other new transfer students at UNL, as well as get connected with staff from campus resources such as CAST (Center for Academic Success and Transition), SLICE (Student Leadership, Involvement, and Community Engagement), Campus Recreation, and beyond.
Most importantly? We’re giving away freebies - t-shirts and stickers for everyone.
This event is free for UNL students with an NCard. Registration not required.
Details8:00 pm – 11:00 pm, August 22, 2026
Party at the Union
Nebraska Union
Hey Huskers! Ready to start the year off right? Join us for the Big Red Welcome: Party at the Union! It’s THE social event of Big Red Welcome!
Join thousands of Husker students as we dive into tons of student org activities, vibe with our DJ, chow down on free food, and dance the night away. Check out the A cappella and Improv Showcases, and get wowed by balloon artists. This is one major party you don’t wanna miss! Get ready to meet new people, get involved, and make unforgettable memories. See you there!
Details12:00 pm – 2:00 pm, August 22, 2026
Lincoln Bike and Ice Cream Ride
Get outside to explore Lincoln and enjoy a treat along the way. This is a fun and casual bicycle ride where you can get to know your fellow students and learn more about Outdoor Adventures.
Pre-register for a spot at this FREE event.
https://crec.unl.edu/activities/outdoor-adventures/adventure-trips-clinics/
DetailsAugust 27, 28, 29, 30
8:30 pm – 10:30 pm, August 27, 2026
Muppets From Space
Willa Cather Dining Complex Room: Green space/lawn
Bring your blankets, chairs, some snacks, and your friends to enjoy a FREE late night, outdoor movie on a huge inflatable screen! Snacks and beverages provided. Join the Residence Hall Association (RHA) for this classic adventure with the Muppets to save Gonzo and reunite him with his long-last family!
In case of inclement weather, the movie will be moved into the Nebraska Union Swanson Auditorium.
https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12554810
Details11:00 am – 4:00 pm, August 28, 2026
Fall 2026 Tea Time
Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center Room: 301
Every Friday, starting on the 28th of August 11am - 4pm to the 18th of December.
Join us each week to enjoy fresh tea! at JGMC room 302
Time: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, August 30, 2026
Boat Exploration Day
Outdoor Adventures Center
Join this collaboration between Outdoor Adventures, Club Rowing, and Club Sailing at Pawnee Lake where you can try various types of watercraft and learn about the resources available in Lincoln. This is a FREE event for UNL students.
Additional Public Info:
An Engagement activity within Husker Student Power. Learn more: https://go.unl.edu/power.
Starts at 7:05 pm, August 27, 2026
Husker Soccer vs. Omaha
Barbara Hibner Soccer Stadium
Come cheer on Nebraska Soccer as they take on the Omaha Mavericks! It’s our Hounds at Hibner game so be sure to bring your dogs out!
https://huskers.evenue.net/event/WS26/04
Details3:00 pm – 5:00 pm, August 29, 2026
All Are Welcome Reception
Willa Cather Dining Complex Room: Red Cloud Room
A free social event to foster community bonding as the new academic year begins. It is an excellent opportunity for new and current international students, scholars, alumni and staff/faculty to meet and learn from one another.
Attendees will engage with one another through fun activities like Human BINGO, Husker Dialogue playing cards, and Culture Tags. Winners will receive prizes from some of our amazing campus partners.
Free to attend and open to all.
Full details can be viewed at https://studentculture.unl.edu/all-welcome/.
DetailsTime: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, August 30, 2026
Learn to Ride Clinic
Outdoor Adventures Center
Regardless of skill level, come meet other bike enthusiasts on campus and learn about the biking services on campus. These introductory events are free and will show routes around Lincoln along with some biking basics.
Additional Public Info:
An Engagement activity within Husker Student Power. Learn more: https://go.unl.edu/power.
Starts at 7:05 AM, August 28, 2026
Life in Lincoln: Husker Night at the Ballpark
Haymarket Park
Get ready for an evening of fun, community, and Husker spirit at Husker Night at the Ballpark! Join fellow students, faculty, and staff for a memorable night at Haymarket Park as we cheer on the Lincoln Saltdogs.
Important RSVP Information:
All attendees must RSVP through NvolveU to receive ticket access. After registering, you will receive an email sent to your university email account with detailed instructions on how to claim your ticket for the game. Be sure to RSVP early, as tickets may be limited.
*Faculty and staff are welcome to join us but need to purchase their tickets from the Saltdogs at their website using the promo code HUSKER .
https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12500625/rsvp
Details10:30 am – 11:30 am, August 30, 2026
Yoga at the Sheldon
Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon Museum of Art and Campus Recreation are partnering to offer an hour-long yoga class, appropriate for all levels, at the museum. The class is free and open to the public, but space and equipment is limited. Please bring your own mat, towel, or blanket. Doors to Sheldon open at 10:20 am.
https://crec.unl.edu/activities/activities/group-fitness/
DetailsSeptember 3, 4, 5
Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, September 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.
Details6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, September 4, 2026
Craft Night at Sheldon
Sheldon Museum of Art
Join us for Craft Night at the Sheldon, a creative and relaxing evening at the Sheldon Museum of Art!
From 6–8 PM, explore your artistic side with a variety of hands-on craft activities, including painting tote bags, designing charm jewelry, creating macramé keychains, and painting your own custom coasters. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking to try something new, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Throughout the evening, the Sheldon Museum will remain open, giving you the unique opportunity to explore the galleries while you create. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with music, creativity, and plenty of opportunities to make something uniquely yours.
Bring your friends, unwind, and leave with handmade pieces you’ll love!
DetailsTime: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, September 3, 2026
Learn to Ride Clinic
Outdoor Adventures Center
Regardless of skill level, come meet other bike enthusiasts on campus and learn about the biking services on campus. These introductory events are free and will show routes around Lincoln along with some biking basics.
Additional Public Info:
An Engagement activity within Husker Student Power. Learn more: https://go.unl.edu/power.
11:00 am – 2:00 pm, September 3, 2026
East Campus First-Gen Welcome
Nebraska East Union Room: NEU 1st Floor Outside of the Dining Center
Kick off the semester by celebrating the first-generation student community! Stop by the East Campus Union between classes to pick up a free First-Gen T-shirt, make a custom button, snap a photo, and learn more about what it means to be a first-gen college student.
DetailsTime: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, September 4, 2026
September First Friday at Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon Museum of Art
Start your weekend and celebrate the start of the school year at Sheldon Museum of Art. This month the museum is open until 8 p.m. Admission is always free and everyone is welcome.
Explore the new fall exhibitions. Sketch in the galleries. Join a tour: Remembering Modern Art tour at 5:30 p.m.; drop-in tour at 6 p.m. Complete an art scavenger hunt to be entered to win a prize.
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, September 4, 2026
First Friday at Great Plains Art Museum
Great Plains Art Museum
The Great Plains Art Museum is open late Sept. 4, 5-7 p.m. with three exhibitions and light refreshments. Meet the three artists involved in “Elsewhere / The Prairie Was Ours” during the event in the Lower-Level Gallery.
DetailsSeptember 10, 11, 12, 13
Starts at 7:05 pm, September, 10, 2026
Husker Soccer vs. Indiana
Barbara Hibner Soccer Stadium
Come cheer on the Nebraska Soccer team as they take on the Indiana Hoosiers!
https://huskers.evenue.net/event/WS26/05
Details3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, September 10, 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.
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm, September 11, 2026
Life in Lincoln: Outdoor Challenge Course
6900 W/ Superior St, Lincoln, NE
Ready to meet other UNL students, be outside, and have some serious fun? At the UNL Challenge Course, you’ll jump into a series of engaging, ground‑based group activities designed to spark laughter, and stretch your problem‑solving muscles in a supportive, low‑pressure environment.
No experience needed—just bring your curiosity, your willingness to try something new, and your best “let’s‑do‑this” attitude.
Wear clothing appropriate for the weather and wear closed toed shoes.
If this is something you'd love to try out, please RSVP by 9/5/26 and fill out the waiver!
DetailsSeptember 20, 21, 22, 23
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, September 17, 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.
Details10:30 am – 3:30 pm, September 19, 2026
Life in Lincoln: Zoo Fun!
Lincoln Children's Zoo
Get ready to explore one of Lincoln’s most exciting attractions—the Lincoln Children’s Zoo! Join Life in Lincoln and Students with Children for a fun and relaxed outing where you’ll have the freedom to wander, discover, and experience the zoo at your own pace.
Whether you want to see your favorite animals, check out interactive exhibits, or simply enjoy a day outdoors with friends, this is the perfect opportunity to explore more of what Lincoln has to offer.
Don’t miss this chance to connect with others, the first 65 students with children to RSVP are eligible to receive a free ticket. This includes one child. Students must be at the zo by 10:30 to recieve their ticket!
Details