Eclectic New Year’s Eve events around Lincoln help bring in 2026

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – This New Year’s Eve, people in Lincoln are attending several unique events; from the Telegraph District to the Haymarket, there’s something for everyone.

For those looking to laugh in a more casual setting, the Backswing Brewing Company has a comedy show for you and a brew, too.

“I think if you’re looking for something different to do that’s affordable, and we’ll be done before midnight, this is a great option,” said Cory Sinclair, co-owner of the brewery.

“There will be five to six comedians; they’re local. We usually try to do this once a month,” he said.

The show was held from 7-10 p.m. on Dec. 31, and with tickets just $15, guests could enjoy the acts at a low cost while surrounded by massive vats of beer throughout the night.

“We’ve always focused a lot more on making this a place for the community to come gather. I think that’s the essence of what breweries are really about,” said Sinclair.

As for the music lovers of Lincoln, the Post is the place to be.

Deon Jackson is a part of the 97.3 FM radio station and organized a “Nebraska’s Got Talent” showcase for new local artists.

“This show is different, this show is eclectic enough to have all original music and all artists are from the state of Nebraska, who are representing our state to its fullest,” said Jackson.

One of those artists was Katerpillar, who was debuting two new original songs during the showcase.

“It will be the beginning of the greatest year ever here in Lincoln, well, at least for me,” he said playfully.

As for something more formal, you could head to the Graduate hotel in the Haymarket, where the band, “The Raw Nerve” is performing.

They are a band with over thirty years of experience, playing cover songs from the 70s, 80s, and 90s throughout midnight in their tuxedos.

Connie Pejsar and Kathy Jenkins are the wives of two band members and co-organize the annual formal banquet, which features a unique theme.

“Everyone has fun. Everyone is on the dancefloor, what more can you ask for?” said Pejsar.

“I think we’ll have about 175 people, and people usually dress up, so it’ll be a bit more formal,” said Jenkins, who adds that both Pejsar and she will be wearing black velvet dresses.

The band’s lead singer and bassist, Steve Pejsar, explains why this year will be extra special.

“We were inducted into the Nebraska hall of fame just a few months ago, so we’re kind of celebrating that tonight too,” he said.

“We decided to do a formal New Year’s Eve dance. We wear tuxedos, and everyone gets dressed up, and the crowd loves that, you know,” said Pejsar.

Many of the organizers and venues celebrating on Wednesday also throw events throughout the year.

If you would like to see a comedy show or drink a brew at Backswing Brewing Company, click here.

If you would like to see any of the new local artists debuting their work on 97.3fm, click here; or featured events at The Post, click here.

Lastly, if you are looking to find performances by “The Raw Nerve”, then click here.