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Music Fest Stories, Ice Cubes and Making the Most of a Moment

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Joi
Aug 13, 2026
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I was standing on the side of the stage with my camera waiting for Blondshell to start their show when all of a sudden a stagehand rushes over to me.

“Do you know how to pick a lock on a guitar case?” she asked in a panic.

Another photographer said he might be able to. And off they went!

Hey there little wonder, I had a rainy rock n’ roll weekend!

My city hosts the Maha Music Festival and I was lucky to be offered an All Access Pass.

It started out to be a wonderful summer day and I couldn’t wait to catch some great live music and be able to explore…….anywhere!

The origins of this music festival was influenced by surge of great indie rock bands that emerged off Saddlecreek Records in the early 2000s that put Omaha, Nebraska on the music map!

Each year, the music festival incorporates rising local music acts with some incredible headliners. This year included Wet Leg, Bright Eyes (hometown hero), Killer Mike of Run the Jewels, Blondshell, Whitney and a few local acts.

Most still consider Omaha a “fly-over” town, but I’ll tell you one thing; there is no shortage of weekly live music. Just check out the newsletter of Omaha Buzz. (you’ll see what I mean)

I’m hoping that my city can be part of the cool new concert platform, Encore, created by Adam Offitzer. What a great way to bring local music fans together!

me with my pass

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Before the first band started, I decided to peruse the grounds and see what’s up.

I headed over to the VIP area. I have to say there was nothing really different from the general admission area except for a little hill for extra seating and a fancy porta potty. Note: the small hill has a tree blocking the view of the stage.

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