Boehmer Street: Honoring a Lincoln Music Legend

On the eve of the beloved ZOOFEST music festival, Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird, alongside community leaders and music advocates, announced the official naming of Downtown’s Music District “Boehmer Street,” honoring Larry Boehmer, the legendary owner of the Zoo Bar and a cornerstone of Lincoln’s vibrant music culture.

Commemorative signs mark the area, paying tribute to Boehmer’s legacy, not just as a club owner, but as a musician, promoter, and true believer in the power of live music.

“For decades, Larry helped shape the soul of this city’s sound,” Mayor Gaylor Baird said. “Boehmer Street reflects the lively music scene that has long shaped Lincoln’s unique sound and spirit.”

From 1977 to 2000, Boehmer transformed the Zoo Bar into a blues haven, hosting icons like Magic Slim, KoKo Taylor, and Robert Cray. He also played bass in local bands The Heartmurmers, The Tablerockers, and Not All There. Although he passed away in 2012, his influence continues to resonate through every live set in the Music District.

The Music District renaming is more than a gesture; it’s a commitment to Lincoln’s cultural future. As the city invests in the growth of its Music District, Boehmer Street stands as a symbol of where we’ve been and where we’re going.

So as the ZOOFEST amps up this weekend, take a walk down Boehmer Street. Hear the music, feel the history, and enjoy Downtown Lincoln’s Boehmer Street.

Visit boehmerstreet.com for more information. 

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