The wackiest conventions of Omaha
Omaha, Nebraska, might seem like your typical Midwestern city, but every year, it becomes the unlikely epicenter of the world’s most bizarre and hilariously unconventional conventions. Let’s dive into the annual calendar of Omaha’s craziest gatherings:
The International Sock Puppet Symposium (January): Kicking off the year, this convention sees enthusiasts from all over the globe flocking to Omaha with their beloved sock puppets. The highlight? The ‘Sock Puppet Shakespeare’ contest where Hamlet and Macbeth get a fuzzy makeover. The symposium also features a black-tie gala – socks only, of course.
Worldwide Conspiracy Theorists’ Convocation (April Fool’s Day): It’s no joke – every April 1st, Omaha becomes a haven for conspiracy theorists. The Flat Earthers’ pancake breakfast is a must-try, and don’t miss the illuminating seminar, “Aliens Among Us: Why Your Neighbor Might Be From Venus.” Tin foil hats are not just welcome, they’re encouraged.
The Annual Great Plains Spork Enthusiasts Meet (June): It’s all about celebrating the versatility of the spork here. The spork sculpting contest is a sight to behold, and the heated debates over spork vs. foon (fork-spoon hybrid) rivalries are surprisingly intense. The meet culminates in the grand Spork Banquet, where every dish must be spork-friendly.
Omaha’s Mysterious Mystics Gathering (October): As Halloween approaches, Omaha becomes a hotspot for mystics, fortune tellers, and tarot readers. The crystal ball gazing competition is a crowd favorite, alongside workshops like “Channeling Your Inner Werewolf” and “Potion Making 101.” It’s a mystical, magical experience with a side of spooky.
The Great Midwest Left-Handers’ Convention (December): The year wraps up with a celebration of all things left-handed. The Left-Handed Olympics features sports adapted for the left-handed, and the marketplace offers gadgets and tools designed for lefties. The keynote speech, “Living in a Right-Handed World,” always draws a big, predominantly left-handed crowd.
In Omaha, the ordinary is turned on its head, making it the go-to destination for the quirkiest, most eccentric conventions.
