Programs Overview
Programs and Projects
Whether you're a community member, art enthusiast, environmental advocate, or simply enjoy live performances, there's something for everyone at BFF. Explore our current programs below!
First Friday
Every first friday BFF organizes art shows and programming in the neighborhood! These events include art shows, youth engagement, hands-on education, digital projections, on-street Artist Markets, street closures, and special annual events like PRIDE (June) and the New American Arts Festival (August) which showcases local refugee and immigrant arts and cultures.
Green Team
BFF’s Green Team aims to promote environmentally sustainable practices through providing resources and opportunities for the community. Centered in Benson, the program consists of neighborhood cleanups, landscaping, community events, public art projects, education, and other beautification initiatives.
Benson Creative District
Benson is now an official Creative District! With this designation, we hope to attract and retain creatives in the community and continue the creative spirit that keeps Benson “Good Weird.” Visit the official BCD website below!
Artist Markets
BFF Artist Markets run on First Fridays monthly May - September (6 - 10 pm), located on Military Ave (North Market) and 62nd St (South Market) along Maple Street.
Petshop
Taking over what was a defunct exotic pet store, Petshop was founded as a studio & gallery space in June 2012. This space is now a shared creative space in Benson with galleries, studios, offices, and event space.
BFF Gallery
BFF Gallery is a collaborative office, studio space, and gallery, representing BFF Omaha’s headquarters and official “First Stop” during monthly First Friday art walks. The gallery is curated by Ang Bennett and seeks collaborations via selected community partnerships.
NAAF
Join Heartland Family Services and BFF Omaha on #FirstFriday August 4th for the 10th Annual New American Arts Festival in the Benson Creative District! NAAF celebrates the immigrant, migrant, and refugee communities of the greater Omaha area.
MaMo
MaMO Gallery (pronounced “May-MOH”) is a semi-trailer-turned-gallery that travels throughout the region March-November, partnering with various communities and organizations, and hosts interdisciplinary programming, artist residencies, and immersive installations.
PETFEST
PETFEST is BFF Omaha’s annual music & art festival on August 19th at Petshop Gallery (2725-2729 N. 62nd St). Featuring 20+ musicians, bands, and performers, PETFEST is Omaha’s most original music festival experience!
First Friday Pride
Come out to celebrate LGBTQ+ artists and communities on First Friday, June 2nd! Arguably the most creative PRIDE celebration in the midwest!
Education
Education programming encompasses a variety of activities, from art classes held at Trudy’s to exhibitions, public art installations, and zine publishing centered around emerging artists and teenagers.
Public Art
In an effort towards beautification and to create a visual stimulating community, BFF implements annual public art projects within Omaha and Lincoln, working regularly with community members, building owners, city officials, and both local & national artists.