Welcome to Explore Lincoln, a new monthly column that features events, exhibitions and interesting things to do on campus and across Lincoln.
Take a stroll through Maxwell Arboretum
Tucked away on East Campus, Nebraska's Maxwell Arboretum offers a relaxing getaway from the rush of the city. It's home to a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, vines and perennial plants, which visitors can learn more about during the arboretum's monthly walking tours.
The arboretum is also spotted with gazebos, benches and shady spots for a short study break or way to escape the heat.
Kick off the school year with Big Red Welcome
As the fall semester approaches, Nebraska has a record number of events planned for students in August.
This year’s Big Red Welcome Street Festival will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 25 in the Memorial Stadium Loop. The event features 350 booths of local businesses, student organizations and university departments. Students can learn more about how to get involved on campus, as well as pick up free food, giveaways and prizes.
Find all 51 of Lincoln’s hand sculptures
If you’ve driven through Lincoln within the last few months, there’s a good chance you’ve noticed the six-feet-tall, fiberglass hand sculptures popping up around town. The sculptures are part of a new public art project, “Serving Hands: Celebrating 50 Years of Campus Life.”
There are currently 51 hand sculptures located throughout Lincoln, and with the displays ending in October, it’s worth seeing them all for yourself. Check out a map of the sculptures’ locations here.
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Catch a preview of the Cornhusker Marching Band
After a summer of rehearsals, Nebraska’s Cornhusker Marching Band will host a free performance at 7 p.m. Aug. 23 in Memorial Stadium.
The event will feature a preview of the first game’s halftime show, as well as other fan favorites. Gates open at 6 p.m.
Head to Campus Rec for free fitness classes
Free fitness classes at Campus Rec, available Aug. 26-30, are a great way to start the school year off strong. The classes include kickboxing, yoga, cycling, cardio dance, HIIT and more.
The free week is available to all students, as well as faculty and staff with Campus Rec memberships.
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Celebrate football season at the Wick Alumni Center
Family-friendly and packed with activities, Football Fridays at the Wick Alumni Center are a fun way to connect with other Nebraska fans. The events feature visits from the Husker Spirit Squad, mascots and pep band, activities for children and visits by former players and coaches.
This year’s first Football Friday will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 30. The event is free and open to the public.
Learn more about downtown Lincoln
The Downtown Lincoln Association will host a free student welcome night from 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 30 at Tower Square, 13th and P Streets.
A variety of downtown businesses and vendors will be present, with free food, coupons, movie tickets and gift cards handed out as giveaways.
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