Eat Rx

For two days in late July 2023, Stinson Park in Omaha, Nebraska, transformed into the vibrant, beating heart of the Midwest’s music scene. The MAHA Festival, a beloved institution celebrated for its thoughtful curation and community-first ethos, delivered an experience that year that is still talked about with a nostalgic glow. For those who were there, it was a weekend defined by incredible performances, seamless logistics, and a palpable sense of shared joy. For those who weren’t, it serves as a perfect blueprint for what makes a boutique festival truly special. This is a look back at the ultimate guide to experiencing MAHA 2023—a retrospective on the tickets, the tips, and the unforgettable moments that made it a standout year.

The journey to any festival begins with the ticket, and MAHA 2023 offered options that catered to every type of festival-goer. General Admission (GA) passes provided access to the full two-day experience, placing fans right in the middle of the action. But for those seeking an elevated experience, the VIP package was the golden ticket. VIPs enjoyed access to an exclusive lounge with shaded seating—an invaluable commodity under the July sun—as well as premium viewing areas near the main stage, complimentary food and drinks, and perhaps most cherished of all, private, air-conditioned restrooms. This two-tiered system was a hallmark of MAHA’s approach: accessible to all, but with thoughtful upgrades for those willing to splurge for comfort. Securing tickets early was key, as the powerhouse lineup featuring Turnstile and Big Thief drove demand higher than ever.

Arriving at Stinson Park, located in the heart of Aksarben Village, was a breeze compared to the logistical nightmares of many larger festivals. MAHA’s urban setting is one of its greatest assets. Attendees had a wealth of options, from ample paid parking in nearby garages to ride-sharing drop-off points and, for the eco-conscious, bike racks. The clear bag policy was strictly enforced but well-communicated in advance, ensuring a smooth and speedy entry process. Once inside, the layout of the park was intuitive and manageable. Two stages—the main Mutual of Omaha stage and the smaller, yet equally vital, Broad-Use Bank stage—were positioned to minimize sound bleed while allowing for a continuous flow of music. You could catch a headliner on one stage and then leisurely stroll to the other to discover a new favorite artist without missing a beat.

A core part of the 2023 experience was navigating the on-site amenities, and MAHA excelled in this department. Staying hydrated is the number one rule of any summer festival, and free water refill stations were plentiful and easy to find. The food selection went far beyond standard festival fare, emphasizing local Omaha eateries. Attendees could feast on everything from gourmet pizza and authentic tacos to creative vegan options, truly getting a taste of the city’s burgeoning food scene. The craft beer tents featured selections from local breweries, giving the entire event a distinct Nebraskan flavor.

Beyond the music, MAHA 2023 was packed with engaging activities. The Comedy Tent provided a welcome, air-conditioned respite from the heat, featuring a lineup of hilarious local and regional comedians. It was the perfect place to relax, laugh, and recharge between sets. The Community Village was another cornerstone of the festival, hosting a variety of non-profits and local artisans. It was a space where you could engage with important causes, shop for unique handmade goods, and connect with the organizations that make Omaha a vibrant community. This focus on engagement is what elevates MAHA from a simple concert to a holistic cultural event.

For those who were there, a few “veteran tips” quickly became common knowledge. First, finding a spot on the grassy hill overlooking the main stage offered a perfect vantage point—comfortable, with excellent sound and a panoramic view of the crowd and the performers. Second, while the headliners drew massive crowds, some of the weekend’s most magical moments happened at the smaller stage, where you could experience rising stars in a more intimate setting. The discovery of a band like The Beths or EKKSTACY in that environment was a treasured memory for many. Finally, embracing the schedule’s flow was essential. The festival was programmed so that there was always something to see, do, or eat, encouraging a sense of exploration and preventing the long stretches of downtime that can plague other events.

From a practical standpoint, the weather in late July was hot, and veterans knew to dress accordingly in light, breathable clothing. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses were non-negotiable accessories. As the sun set, the park cooled down, and the stage lights took over, creating a completely different, more electric atmosphere. The Friday night Turnstile performance was a sweaty, high-energy spectacle, while Big Thief’s Saturday night set was a more contemplative affair under the stars. Each felt perfectly suited to its time and place.

Looking back, the MAHA Festival 2023 was a masterclass in event organization. It balanced a world-class lineup with flawless logistics and a deep sense of community spirit. Every detail, from the ticket-buying process to the on-site waste reduction programs, felt intentional and attendee-focused. It was a weekend that not only delivered unforgettable musical memories but also reinforced the festival’s reputation as a cherished cultural gem. It was more than a guide; it was an experience etched into the collective memory of Omaha’s music lovers.