Omaha Entertainment & Arts Awards (OEAA)

The Omaha Entertainment & Arts Awards celebrate the city's local music, performing arts and visual arts scenes in one big night. The volunteer-run nonprofit was created by journalist and community leader John Heaston, and the 2026 show was its 20th annual ceremony.

Awards cover music, theater and performance, and visual art, along with lifetime achievement honors in each area and a cultural stewardship award named for Heaston. The show mixes award announcements with live sets from local acts, so it doubles as a sampler of who is making noise in Omaha right now.

The venue has moved around over the years, from the Holland Performing Arts Center to The Admiral, a music hall south of downtown, in 2026. Tickets are sold to the public and the house tends to sell out.

Nominees for the 21st awards were announced in October 2026, so the next show will follow in early 2027.

Highlights

• Live performances by local musicians
• Awards in music, performing arts and visual arts
• Lifetime achievement honors
• A who's who of the Omaha arts scene in one room

Tips for going

• Buy tickets as soon as they go on sale; the 2026 show was expected to sell out.
• Check the venue each year; it changes.
• Look over the nominee list ahead of time and catch a nominated band at a local club while you are in town.
• Raffle prizes at the show require you to be present.