Papillion knows how to throw a party, and families here know where to find the fun! From downtown paradesPapillion knows how to throw a party, and families here know where to find the fun! From downtown parades to outdoor movie nights, this city brings the energy all year long. Dr. Hawley, Dr. Torres, and the Hawley Orthodontics team love being part of a place where community spirit shows up on every calendar. We’ve gathered the top family-friendly events in and around Papillion you can’t miss this summer, starting with one local tradition that brings Papillion families together in a big way.
Taco Ride to Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch
Summer in the Omaha area meets flavor and adventure every Thursday with the iconic Taco Ride, a laid-back bike-and-taco experience rolling out of Papillion!
- What: A family-friendly bike ride along the Big Papio and West Papio Trails, ending with tacos, nachos, drinks, live music, outdoor games, and a play area
- Where: Starts on the Big Papio Trail and finishes at Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch’s Pirates Pub, located at 48th & Cornhusker, just off the trail
- When: Weekly on Thursdays from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM, spring through early fall (weather permitting)
- Why Go: Ride at your own pace, refuel with tacos and margaritas, enjoy music with friends, and let kids loose in the play area (not to mention: free admission!)
The Hawley Orthodontics team often hears how many of their patients look forward to this weekly highlight. Coming up next: an outdoor movie series that makes summer evenings even sweeter.
Papillion Starlight Movie Series
There’s something special about watching a movie under the stars, and Papillion’s Starlight Movie Series offers just that. Held at the SumTur Amphitheater, these free events combine family-friendly films with pre-show entertainment.
- What: Free outdoor movie screenings featuring popular family films. Guests can grab drinks and popcorn from the concession stand or bring their own snacks and refreshments to enjoy during the show.
- Where & When: SumTur Amphitheater, located at 11691 S 108th Street, Papillion, NE.
Gates open at 7:30 p.m., music starts at 8 p.m. The Starlight Movie Series includes:
- Inside Out 2 on August 2, 2025
- Mufasa: The Lion King on August 9, 2025
- Why Go: These events offer a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere with free entertainment
We know how busy family life can get, so nights like these are the perfect pause. Next up: a splashy local tradition that helps kids stay cool and active all summer long.
PFD Summer Hydrant Parties
When the summer heat hits, Papillion families have a cool solution: the PFD Summer Hydrant Parties. Hosted by the Papillion Fire Department, these events turn local parks into splash zones, providing a fun and free way for kids to beat the heat!
- What: Community water play events featuring open fire hydrants and water activities
- Where: Various parks throughout Papillion and La Vista
- When: Scheduled dates July 2025 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. (check the PFD Facebook Events Page for updates)
- Why Go: It’s a fantastic way for kids to cool off, have fun, and interact with local firefighters in a safe environment
Next, let’s explore a stroll-worthy favorite that blends reading, sunshine, and a little bit of magic tucked into Eagle Ridge Park.
StoryWalk® at Eagle Ridge Park
For families seeking a blend of outdoor activity and reading, the newly permanent StoryWalk® at Eagle Ridge Park offers an engaging experience. This initiative features 18 pedestals along a paved path, each displaying pages from a children’s book. The stories are rotated every other month, providing fresh content for repeat visits.
- What: A self-guided, outdoor reading experience with story pages displayed along a trail. Visitors can also provide feedback via a QR code located at the StoryWalk®.
- Where: Eagle Ridge Park, Cobblestone Rd, Papillion, NE 68133.
- When: Open year-round; stories change bi-monthly.
- Why It’s Great: Combines physical activity with literacy, making reading a dynamic and interactive experience for children and adults alike.
Next up: a summer tradition that lights up Papillion’s sky (literally)!
Fireworks Finale at Werner Park
Cap off your summer evenings with a dazzling fireworks display at Werner Park in Papillion. These shows light up the sky following select Omaha Storm Chasers baseball games, offering a perfect blend of sports and spectacle for families and fans alike.
- What: Post-game fireworks displays after Omaha Storm Chasers baseball games
- Where: Werner Park, 12356 Ballpark Way, Papillion, NE
- When: Select Friday nights during the 2025 baseball season; check the Omaha Storm Chasers schedule for specific dates
- Why Go: Enjoy America’s pastime and conclude the evening with a spectacular fireworks show, making for an unforgettable family outing
These events are a local favorite, combining the excitement of baseball with the thrill of fireworks, all set against the backdrop of a warm Nebraska night. It’s an experience that captures the essence of summer in Papillion!
Next up: an event that brings the community together through music and celebration.
Music & Memories Summer Concert Series
Wrap up your summer evenings with the rhythm and melodies of the Music & Memories Summer Concert Series. Held at the Texas Roadhouse Amphitheater in Shadow Lake Towne Center, this free concert series offers a delightful mix of genres, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste!
- What: Weekly live music performances featuring a variety of bands and genres
- Where: Texas Roadhouse Amphitheater, Shadow Lake Towne Center, 7775 Olson Drive, Papillion, NE
- When: Friday evenings from Friday, July 11 to August 15, 2025 (excluding Aug 1st!), 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Why Go: Enjoy a relaxing evening with family and friends, savoring live music in an open-air setting
This series is a beloved tradition in Papillion, bringing the community together through the universal language of music.
We’ve covered the big events, but Papillion still has plenty up its sleeve. Let’s close out with a few local favorites that add flavor to your summer calendar.
Can’t-Miss Summer Staples
Here’s a quick look at a few fan-favorite hangouts and happenings around town.
Papillion Farmers Market
Midweek evenings get a fresh twist with Papillion’s local market, bringing produce, music, and good energy to downtown.
- What: A weekly gathering of vendors with fresh produce, baked goods, artisan treats, live music, and a relaxed community vibe
- When: Wednesdays, July 16 to August 13, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM
- Why Go: It’s the perfect excuse to grab something fresh, explore the local scene, and make a Wednesday feel like the weekend
Papio Bay Aquatic Center
Splash into summer at one of America’s top-rated pools based in Papillion’s Halleck Park.
- What: Five acres of zero-depth areas, slides, diving boards, sand volleyball, and a snack bar
- When: Open daily noon to 8 pm (closes at 6:30 pm Tues and Thurs, 5 pm on July 4)
- Why Go: Perfect for beating the heat and enjoying family-friendly fun
Sarpy County Fair
Take a short drive to Springfield for Nebraska’s oldest county fair, bursting with classic attractions.
- What: Carnival rides, rodeos, tractor pulls, 4-H exhibits, concerts, beer garden, and more
- When: July 30–August 3, 2025
- Why Go: It’s the ultimate family fare. Agritainment meets tradition, with a side of Midwestern charm
Storm Chasers Theme Nights (and More)
Werner Park transforms every game into a party with themes, giveaways, and fireworks that light up the Papillion summer.
- What: 24 exciting theme nights in 2025 (from Star Wars and Harry Potter to Agriculture and Pride) as well as fun giveaways like bobbleheads, jerseys, and themed swag
- When: Multiple nights throughout the season (April–August), including community-themed games with post-game celebrations.
- Why Go: Fun for all ages, enjoy the game, collect limited-edition items, dress up, many nights end with fireworks or special entertainment
Downtown Papillion Food & Fun
Your tastebuds (and Instagram) will thank you. Downtown Papillion is a foodie playground with local favorites:
- Papillion Taco Guy – A beloved local food stand known for mouthwatering street tacos and friendly vibes. 120 N Washington St
- Sauced Pizza – Creative pizzas, local beers, and a patio perfect for Nebraska evenings. 115 N Washington St
- Graley’s Creamery & Confections – A retro-style sweet shop serving handcrafted ice cream, fudge, and candy. 147 N Washington St
- Rosy Clay Studio – Hands-on pottery studio offering classes, workshops, and creative events for all ages. 108 N Washington St
- House of Colour Papillion – Personal color and style analysis sessions to help you feel confident and polished. 120 N Jefferson St
- Music Bingo at Twisted Vine – A fun spin on bingo with music-themed rounds, great drinks, and a lively patio scene. 123 N Washington
Now that your summer plans are sketched out, don’t let those smiles fall behind! Whether you’re cooling off at Papio Bay or dancing at Shadow Lake, keep your next check-in with Dr. Hawley or Dr. Torres at Hawley Orthodontics on the list.
Smile-Ready for Summer Fun
Papillion’s summer calendar is packed, so make sure your smile’s ready for it all. Between corndogs, fireworks, and StoryWalk strolls, swing by Hawley Orthodontics to keep your grin on track. Dr. Hawley, Dr. Torres, and the rest of the team are here to keep things quick, easy, and picture-perfect. Book your free consultation here in Papillion and give every summer snapshot a reason to shine!