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.
Sept. 28, Oct 1, 2, 3, 4
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm, September 28 2026
Showtime at the Coliseum
Coliseum
Come join us for a fast-paced and lively show as student organizations, fraternities, and sororities compete against each other with group performances full of music, dancing, and fun for Homecoming competition points!
Doors will be open at 7:00pm for you to come in, the event will begin at 8:00pm.
We will be utilizing Event Pass to track Audience Participation points. Event Pass is an easy way for you to check in your your phone. Make getting into the event quick by saving the Event Pass on your phone prior to the event.
Details6:30 pm – 7:30 pm, October 2, 2026
Homecoming Parade
Nebraska Union Room: Route on Parade Website
Come celebrate Homecoming by watching student organizations, community groups, homecoming royalty, the Cornhusker Marching Band and some special guests as they perform in our annual parade. Participants will include floats, golf carts, balloons, performances and more!
Starts at 12:35 pm, October 4, 2026
Husker Soccer vs. Wisconsin
Barbara Hibner Soccer Stadium
Come cheer on the Nebraska Soccer team as they take on the Wisconsin Badgers!
https://huskers.evenue.net/event/WS26/07
Details11:30 am – 1:00 pm, October 1, 2026
First Generation Nebraska: Fuel Up
Love Library North & Link
Enjoy free drinks and snacks and socialize with other first-gen students.
https://executivevc.unl.edu/evc/initiatives/first-generation-nebraska/
Details5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, October 2, 2026
October First Friday at Sheldon
Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon stays open late every first Friday of the month. October’s First Friday features a gallery talk by the student curators of the exhibition “New Horizons” (5 PM), and an immersive tour of the exhibition “Remembering Modern Art” (5:30 PM).
First Fridays are always free and open to everyone.
https://sheldonartmuseum.doubleknot.com/event/october-first-friday/3154145
DetailsStarts at 7:00 am, October 2, 2026
Badminton Tournament - Singles
Campus Recreation Center
Entry Fee: FREE
Play Begins: Friday, October 2
Leagues: Open, Men’s, Women’s
https://crec.unl.edu/activities/intramural-sports/
Details3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, October 1, 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.
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What to expect:
Fun, fellowship, laughter, friends, and smiles.
There will always be fresh popcorn, including special mix-ins.
Details5:30 pm – 8:00 pm, October 2, 2026
Cornstock Festival
Memorial Stadium Room: East Plaza (Near Osborne Legacy Complex)
Cornstock offers a memorable evening for Husker fans of all ages. Check out the homecoming parade, enjoy food trucks (free for students with NCard), balloon twisting & face painting, tattoo station, VR games, music and more! There is something for everyone to get in the Nebraska spirit before the Huskers take on Maryland.
DetailsOctober 8, 9, 10, 11
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, October 8, 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.
Details5:30 pm – 7:00 pm, October 9, 2026
Life in Lincoln: No-Bake Delights
University Health Center Room: Room 121
Come join Life in Lincoln for a fun and interactive cooking class in collaboration with UNL’s very own Ellyn McCarter! In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to make delicious, no-bake snacks that are simple, affordable, and perfect for busy students.
Whether you’re living in a dorm, apartment, or house, these easy recipes require minimal equipment and ingredients, making them accessible for everyone. You’ll walk away with new snack ideas, helpful tips, and the confidence to create quick treats anytime.
Bring a friend, meet new people, and enjoy some tasty creations along the way!
Please RSVP here to ensure safe foods for all!
https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12514508/rsvp
Details4:00 pm – 6:00 pm, October 8, 2026
Piece Out: Puzzle Challenge
Love Library South Room: 224 (Witt Room)
Join UNL Libraries for a puzzle competition that’s equal parts relaxing and competitive! Work solo, in pairs, or teams of 4 to complete a 150-, 300-, or 500-piece puzzle.Enjoypopcorn with candy mix-ins, andhot chocolatewhile you puzzle your way to bragging rights. Registration required:https://go.unl.edu/puzzle
DetailsStarts at 2:00 pm, October 10, 2026
Drop-In Tour at Sheldon Museum of Art
Sheldon Museum of Art
Join a Sheldon educator for this special tour highlighting influential women artists whose works are currently on view at Sheldon Museum of Art. Explore powerful stories, bold ideas, and enduring contributions that continue to shape the course of art history.
Tours at Sheldon are free, but space is limited. Advanced registration is encouraged.
https://sheldonartmuseum.doubleknot.com/event/drop-in-tour-women-in-the-arts/3154690
DetailsStarts at 7:30 pm, October 9, 2026
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis
Lied Center for Performing Arts Room: Lied Center Main Stage
Celebrate Wynton Marsalis’ final season as Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center and Music Director of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra when the world-renowned ensemble returns to the Lied! Known for their incredible performances of the works of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and original compositions, they are widely recognized as the world’s premier big band.
Please join us for this special event as we recognize Wynton’s history at the Lied Center and his amazing impact on jazz music in the world!
https://www.liedcenter.org/event/jazz-lincoln-center-orchestra-wynton-marsalis-2
Free for UNL Students!
DetailsOctober 15, 16, 17, 18
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, October 15, 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 12:00 pm, October 16, 2026
Fall Break Ozark Mountains Backpacking Trip
Outdoor Adventures Center
Experience the beauty of the Ozark Mountains this Fall Break on a four-day backpacking adventure along Arkansas’ Buffalo River Trail. You’ll get a full backcountry experience with days of hiking, gourmet camp cooking, and creating new friendships along the trail and around a campfire. This trip is great for those wanting to try backpacking for the first time or experienced backpackers.
DetailsStarts at 7:30 pm, October 16, 2026
Life in Lincoln: ‘Lumia’ at the Lied
The Lied Center for Performing Arts
Experience an unforgettable night at the Lied Center with Lumia! The first 50 students to RSVP will receive an exclusive VIP experience, including a behind-the-scenes tour of the Lied Center and the opportunity to meet members of the performance crew. Spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Following the VIP experience, all attendees are invited to enjoy the show with friends, completely free! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of a live performance and then sit back and enjoy the show.
https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12536816/rsvp
DetailsStarts at 12:00 pm, October 16, 2026
Fall Break Horseshoe Canyon Climbing Trip
Outdoor Adventures Center
Want to expand your climbing capabilities and have an amazing Fall Break? Join us in Arkansas at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch! Home to hundreds of sandstone climbing routes, this world-class destination offers something for everyone. Spend your days climbing stunning cliffs and evenings enjoying great food and campfire conversations with new friends. With expert instruction and a welcoming community this trip is the perfect introduction to outdoor climbing or a chance to expand your skills in a incredible setting.
DetailsStarts at 1:05 pm, October 18, 2026
Husker Soccer vs. Illinois
Barbara Hibner Soccer Stadium
Come cheer on the Nebraska Soccer team as they take on the Illinois Fighting Illini! It’s Senior day so make sure to come out and support the 2026 Husker Soccer Seniors.
https://huskers.evenue.net/event/WS26/08
DetailsStarts at 12:00 pm, October, 16, 2026
Fall Break South Dakota National Parks Hiking Tour
Outdoor Adventures Center
Join us for a four-day Fall Break adventure exploring the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history of South Dakota’s National Parks through the lens of place-based education! We will spend our days on scenic trails, taking in prairie views, finding unique geological formations, and learning about the natural and cultural history of the places we visit. Each night we will cook and camp together as we share stories of that day’s adventure. This is the perfect trip for someone looking to get into hiking and outdoor adventures as well as seasoned explorers interested in checking new National Parks off their bucket list.
DetailsStarts at 12:00 pm, October 16, 2026
Fall Break Caves and Crystal Waters Canoe Trip
Outdoor Adventures Center
Spend your Fall Break canoeing the crystal-clear waters of the Current River! We will teach you the basics of canoeing and camping while we explore one of Missouri’s most famous wild and scenic rivers. Along the way you’ll enjoy beautiful fall colors, miles of open river, fascinating caves and waterfalls, and fun evenings around the campfire. This is a great opportunity to make new friends and learn more about canoeing
DetailsOctober 22, 23, 24, 25
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm, October 22, 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.
Details2:00 pm – 3:30 pm, October 23, 2026
Graduate Student Coffee Hours
Dinsdale Family Learning Commons Room: 235 East Campus
Take a break, grab a cup of coffee, and connect with fellow graduate students from across UNL. Graduate Student Coffee Hours offer a relaxed space to meet students from different disciplines while learning about Libraries resources and services that support your graduate journey.
DetailsStarts at 7:05 pm, October 22, 2026
Husker Soccer vs. USC
Barbara Hibner Soccer Stadium
Come cheer on the Nebraska Soccer team as they take on the USC Trojans!
https://huskers.evenue.net/event/WS26/09
Details10:30 am – 11:30 am, October 25, 2026
Yoga at the Sheldon Museum of Art
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/
DetailsStarts at 1:05 pm, October 25, 2026
Husker Soccer vs. UCLA
Barbara Hibner Soccer Stadium
Come cheer on the Nebraska Soccer team as they take on the UCLA Bruins in their final regular season game of the season.
https://huskers.evenue.net/event/WS26/10
Details6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, October 23, 2026
Campus Frightlife
Nebraska East Union Room: Great Plains Room
Campus FRIGHTLIFE: Carving and Costumes is your one-stop Halloween experience on campus this year!
Come dressed in your best Halloween costume for a chance to win prizes in categories like:
Most Creative
Dynamic Duo
Most Likely to Go Viral
While you’re showing off your look, enjoy a selection of festive mocktails crafted to get you in the Halloween spirit… No tricks, just treats!
Then, blow us away with your carving skills for a chance to go down in Campus NightLife history as the Pumpkin Carving Champion!
RSVP on NvolveU for a chance to win!
https://unl.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12514519
DetailsStarts at 7:00 pm, October 23, 2026
Smash Bros Tournament
Campus Recreation Center
Entry Fee: FREE
Play Begins: Friday, October 23
Leagues: Open
https://crec.unl.edu/activities/intramural-sports/
Details