The month of love is just around the corner, and here at Bright Lights, we love learning! One of the most exciting parts of planning each summer is curating unique learning opportunities that spark curiosity and creativity. Every year, we strive to offer a wide variety of camps that ignite excitement and foster a genuine love for learning as campers explore topics they’re passionate about.
This summer’s new offerings highlight the creativity, innovation and community connection that make Bright Lights camps so special. Here is a look at some new camps we’re sure will be favorites:
Musicals and Masterpieces (Grades 3–5) invites students to step into the magic of Broadway by blending art, performance, and imagination. Campers will enjoy hands-on art projects, creative games, movement, and sing-along fun while exploring beloved shows like Wicked and The Lion King. From costume and set design to acting out favorite scenes, this camp is perfect for students who love music, theater and expressive creativity.
Students interested in learning to play Dungeons & Dragons will be excited about Heroes in the Making: D&D Adventure (Grades 6-8) held with a new community partner, HobbyTown. Campers will step into a world of dragons, daring quests and epic storytelling as they learn how to play Dungeons & Dragons through a beginner-friendly campaign. Whether you’re brand new to D&D or curious about tabletop role-playing, this camp is the perfect place to roll the dice and begin your adventure!
Brain Games: A Psychology Adventure (Grades 3-5) will explore the wonders of psychology through hands-on activities, from mapping the parts of the brain to experiencing mind-bending optical illusions that challenge our perception! We will also master “brain hacks” for creative thinking and problem-solving, as well as build emotional intelligence and harness the power of empathy and cooperation!
For older students interested in technology, Tech Builders (Grades 6–8) offers an exciting deep dive into the inner workings of computers. Held in partnership with The Career Academy at Southeast Community College, campers will build a fully functioning PC, explore how computer networks operate, and learn essential cybersecurity skills through interactive, real-world activities. This camp is ideal for curious problem-solvers who want to better understand—and even create—the technology they use every day.
Star City Leaders (Grade 8) provides students with the opportunity to discover their leadership potential while engaging with their community. Through interactive activities and hands-on experiences guided by Youth Leadership Lincoln alumni, campers will build confidence, practice teamwork, and meet local leaders from across Lincoln. It’s an inspiring week focused on civic engagement, leadership, and real-world connections.
Students in grades K-2 can learn to draw cute and playful animals using simple shapes and step-by-step directions in Adorable Animal Art, building confidence as they practice in sketchbooks and create charming animals like pandas and foxes.
We’re also excited to welcome our youngest learners to Twinkles (Pre-K), a playful, hands-on camp designed for soon-to-be Kindergarteners. Each day brings a new themed adventure—from beach days and backyard bug explorations to camping fun and colorful ice cream creations. Campers build important social-emotional skills in a supportive environment, enjoy a daily snack, and wrap up the week with a special summer showcase celebrating all they’ve learned.
Our schedule and camp descriptions are now up on our website, so be sure to visit BrightLights.org for the latest information. And circle February 28 on your calendar – registration opens online at 8 AM!