Omaha Symphony Returns to the Riverfront for Free Fourth of July Concert

July 3rd, 2026

The Omaha Symphony is bringing live orchestral music back to downtown Omaha this Fourth of July with a free outdoor concert at the Performance Pavilion in Gene Leahy Mall.

The RiverFront Fourth of July Celebration begins at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4, and marks only the second time the Symphony has performed this type of large-scale concert at the newly reimagined riverfront.

Joining the Symphony is Broadway actress and singer Diane Phelan, best known for playing Cinderella in the recent Broadway revival of Into the Woods. Although she has performed with the Omaha Symphony four times since first appearing in its Christmas concerts in 2012, this will be her first summer performance in Omaha.

“What I have learned is just how magical it is to be part of such an incredible production, but also to witness the families coming in, with generations after generations, and the warmth that’s there,” Phelan said. “It’s really magical.”

Phelan says one of the things she loves most about symphonic performances is their ability to bring people of all ages together.

“I can’t imagine what it’s gonna be like outdoors, under the stars, with the fireworks and this orchestra and the music and the singing,” she said. “It’s gonna be incredible.”

Also appearing during the celebration will be vocalist Braden Warden and the vocal ensemble Resonance.

For Phelan, the event represents something bigger than a concert. It’s an opportunity for the community to gather and experience the arts together in one of Omaha’s newest public spaces.

The RiverFront Fourth of July Celebration featuring the Omaha Symphony takes place Friday, July 4, at 8:30 p.m. at the Performance Pavilion in Gene Leahy Mall. The event is free and open to the public.