Jazz on the Green, the beloved Omaha tradition, is back for another summer of free concerts in Turner Park at Midtown Crossing!
Jazz on the Green takes place six consecutive Thursdays, July 9 - August 13. Lawn opens at 5 p.m., performances start at 7:30, with preshow entertainment beginning at 6:30. Blankets and chairs are encouraged, and leashed pets are welcome. Refreshments including beer, wine and champagne are permitted.
The concert lineup for 2026 includes:
July 9 – USAF Heartland of America Band “Raptor”
Kick off the free Jazz on the Green concert series with USAF Heartland of America Band “Raptor.” Comprised of a dynamic rhythm section and engaging vocalists, Raptor performs high‑energy music from a variety of genres, enabling them to tell the Air Force story to audiences of all ages. From rock and roll classics and patriotic favorites to the chart‑topping hits of today, Raptor showcases the excellence and professionalism of the men and women serving in the United States Air Force through engaging performances. They are committed to inspiring the American public and honoring our nation’s veterans through the incredible power of music.
July 16 – CJ Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band
CJ Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band bring a blast of high energy Zydeco, blues, and feel good grooves to Jazz on the Green straight from the king of Creole music’s own family line. The son of Grammy winning legend Clifton Chenier, C.J. grew up surrounded by the rhythms, stories, and soul of Creole culture, and he’s spent his career turning that heritage into unforgettable live shows that light up crowds around the world.
He’s jammed with icons, toured with Paul Simon, rocked major festivals, and built a reputation for transforming any audience into a dancing, smiling, can’t stand still party. If you need a night that lifts your spirits and gets your feet moving, this is it. C.J. promises one thing: “You can’t come to my show and stay unhappy.”
July 23 – José Valentino and the UNO Latin Jazz Ensemble with Michael Pujado
José Valentino is a global force across jazz, classical, Latin, and world music known for his electrifying stage presence and genre‑spanning artistry. His most recent project was recorded with Omaha’s own University of Nebraska at Omaha Jazz Band, who will join him to perform at Jazz on the Green along with special guest Michael Pujado! Headlining more than 1,500 concerts across six continents including two standout performances at Carnegie Hall, José Valentino has more than 160 albums to his name. His lengthy list of honors includes the 2024 Global Genius® Grand Prize, ten Global Genius® Awards, four GRAMMY® Awards, and a record‑setting 43 Global Music® Awards.
July 30 – J & The Causeways
J & The Causeways is a New Orleans soul blues powerhouse! Lead singer and keyboardist Jordan Anderson’s soaring, soul‑drenched voice and magnetic stage presence channel the same electrifying spirit that fans love in bands like Alabama Shakes and St. Paul & The Broken Bones, turning every performance into a full‑on groove fest. Bring your friends, grab a spot on the lawn, and get ready for a feel‑good, dance‑worthy night under the summer sky.
Aug. 6 – Brittany Davis & Black Thunder
Get ready for a powerful, soul‑shaking night at Jazz on the Green with Brittany Davis, the Seattle‑based singer, songwriter, and multi‑instrumentalist whose new album Black Thunder is already turning heads. Backed by Evan Flory‑Barnes on bass and D’Vonne Lewis on drums, the completely improvised album feels raw, alive, and totally in the moment. The trio’s music channels legends like Nina Simone and Roberta Flack while carving out something completely their own, full of deep grooves, emotional honesty, and a kind of spiritual electricity you can feel in your chest. Expect a night of bold music that moves from intimate whispers to full‑on thunder, all under the summer sky — and all for free. Bring your blanket, bring your people, and get ready to feel something real.
Aug. 13 – Braxton Cook
Get ready for a smooth, soulful summer night at Jazz on the Green with Braxton Cook, one of the most exciting voices in modern jazz and R&B. Braxton’s music lives in that sweet spot where warm, late day sunshine meets cool evening air, blending jazz, soul, and groove in a way that feels both nostalgic and totally fresh. His latest album, Not Everyone Can Go, was born during a time of big life changes, new fatherhood, and major self reflection, and you can hear that honesty and heart in every track.
Jazz on the Green takes place at Turner Park at Midtown Crossing - 3110 Farnam Street in Omaha. More information is available at o-pa.org/jotg.