Staying Cool at Maha 2023

Check back here for updates. 

The last weekend of July in Omaha is always guaranteed to be hot, but the Friday of Maha 2023 might be the warmest one yet. With a heat advisory in effect for Omaha, Maha is preparing several ways to help the crowd, volunteers, and performers keep as cool as they can while still enjoying all the festival fun.

Operation hydration.
FNBO is providing free water filling stations throughout the festival grounds. Everyone is welcome to bring factory-sealed or empty water bottles to fill on site. More about what to bring here.

10/10 would recommend these spots.
The coolest place to be is the Millwork Arts Lounge — which has air conditioning in addition to performances from nationally known and local comedians, and a set from the Nebraska Writers Collective Youth Poets on Saturday.

The MCC Chillout @ Maha has the biggest misting fan you’ve ever seen. With lounge seating and plenty of cool mist, this chill out zone will be a great place to cool off all weekend. Additional misting fans will be placed throughout the festival grounds, too.

Aksarben Village has grown along with Maha through the years — and so have their trees! There are a lot of shady options around, especially on the south side of the festival. Camping and lawn chairs are also allowed inside to give people a place to take a break from the fun. 

Keeping things chill.
Maha is a festival powered by volunteers, and Maha plans to keep those volunteers powered up with plenty of cold water, shade, and breaks as needed. Behind the scenes, adjustments are being made during set-up to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

The safety team’s got your back.
Maha has always had medics on site to help with anything from a blister to more serious issues. This year, the medics will be monitoring the crowd and keeping their eye out for individuals who might need help getting cooled down. 

It’s cool — you can come back.
Keep in mind that you can leave and come back at any time during the festival. Aksarben Village is home to dozens of places to grab a bite — so check out our neighbors and take in some AC. To re-enter the festival, you must keep your original ticket on-hand and scan out when you leave.

The biggest advice: dress cool, hydrate often, enjoy this hot summer festival! And know that things will be a bit cooler on Saturday for day two of Maha 2023!