In Omaha, Nebraska, "The Great Race" currently refers to a world-premiere puppet play titled The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac. If you are looking for the famous vintage car rally of the same name, that event will follow Route 66 in June 2026 and does not currently have a scheduled stop in Omaha.
This whimsical puppet play at the Rose Theater (2001 Farnam St) uses storytelling to explain the magical origin of the 12 zodiac animals through a thrilling competition.
While not stopping in Omaha, this legendary classic car rally is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026.
If you are looking for athletic racing events in the Omaha area during the spring of 2026:
Are you looking for tickets to the puppet play, or would you like to see a full list of cities the car rally will visit along Route 66?
Theater Event: The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac
National Event: The 2026 Great Race (Vintage Car Rally)
Other Major Races in Omaha (Spring 2026)
•Dates: Runs from April 17, 2026, through May 3, 2026.
•Showtimes: Typically 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM on weekends, with select evening performances at 6:30 PM.
•Highlight: Features stunning puppetry designed by What If Puppets and is directed by Sesame Street’s Alan Muraoka.
•Schedule: June 20–28, 2026.
•Route: Travels from Springfield, Illinois, to Pasadena, California, making 17 city stops along the "Mother Road".
•Participants: Features approximately 130 antique cars (models from 1911 to 1974).
•Early Bird 10 Mile Run: April 4, 2026, at Walnut Grove Park.
•Walnut Grove Park
•Peak to Peak to Peak Relay/Ultra: April 18, 2026, a 28-mile trail run connecting specialty running stores.
•Maverick Run (5K): April 25, 2026, at Baxter Arena to support women's athletics.
•Nebraska Half Marathon: May 9, 2026, at Zorinsky Lake.
Updated at 23 Mar 2026