Native Omaha Days facts for kids

Native Omahan Days is a special event in North Omaha, Nebraska. It celebrates the rich history and culture of the community. This big gathering happens every two years since 1976. It includes fun activities like picnics, family get-togethers, school class reunions, and a large parade. Many African American people who live or used to live in Omaha attend this event.

How Native Omahan Days Started

Have you ever wondered how big events begin? Native Omahan Days started with a great idea! On October 24, 1976, a group called the Omaha Homecoming Planning Committee met for the first time. They wanted to create a reunion for people from Omaha who had moved away.

The main people who helped start this committee were Vera Johnson and Bettie McDonald. On December 13, 1976, the committee decided to call themselves the Native Omahans Club.

The club planned many exciting activities for their first homecoming. These included a social mixer, a gospel music night, and a riverboat ride. There was also a homecoming parade, a dance, a picnic, and a "Blue Monday" event. The first week-long celebration happened on August 26, 1977. It was a chance for former residents to reconnect with the city they once called home.

What Happens at Native Omahan Days?

Native Omahan Days is known as a "warm, communal homecoming." It shows the strong connections within Omaha's African-American community. It's a time when people who moved away come back to spend time with family and friends. This celebration has been happening for over 40 years! It includes a formal week of events and a whole month of informal gatherings.

Who Attends the Celebration?

People travel from all over the United States to join in the fun. The event started small, with about 10 people. But it grew a lot! Sometimes, as many as 20,000 people attend.

Many local groups also help out. For example, the Urban League of Nebraska sponsors activities. These can include things like a golf tournament. Even if these activities are not "official," the Native Omahans Club and attendees welcome them.

The Evergreen Family Reunion

During Native Omahan Days, another special event takes place. It's called the Evergreen Family Reunion. This reunion is named after a rural place called Evergreen, Alabama. Many large families from North Omaha originally moved from there.

One man, born in Evergreen and raised in Omaha, shared that families had to leave. He said, "Most of us came here because we had to." Many relatives had to leave the South quickly due to difficult times.

Famous people also attend Native Omahan Days. Actress Gabrielle Union's family is one of those families. She often attends the festivities every year. Professional football player Gale Sayers and Radio One founder Cathy Hughes also join in the celebration.

The Native Omaha Parade

A big highlight of Native Omahan Days is the Native Omaha Parade. It features many colorful floats and exciting marching bands. You'll also see local community leaders and many youth programs and groups participating.

Native Omahan Days is seen across the country as a great example. It shows how a community can build strong connections, especially for African Americans. Many other cities want to create similar events.

The Native Omahans Club plans and holds many of the events. Their building is located at 3819 North 24th Street.