Omaha’s Ultimate List Of Christmas & Holiday Events (2025)
Searching for the best Christmas events in Omaha in 2025? Look no further than Omaha. This city comes alive during the festive season, making it a prime destination for families, couples, and friends alike. From memorable kids’ activities to diverse live performances, ranging from ballet and orchestra to rock, Omaha is a hub for holiday celebrations.
And let’s not forget the many opportunities to meet Santa! Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, our guide answers the question “Are there any good holiday events near me this year?” (The answer: YES!) While many events are perfect for families, we’ve also highlighted some special occasions just for the kid-free crowd. Dive in and discover the magic of the holidays in Omaha.
UPDATED: This post was first published in 2017 and has been updated in October 2025 with this year’s holiday events. If you have an event to add or see an error in the schedule, please leave a comment or email me!
Biggest holiday events in Omaha in 2025
Not sure what you want to do? What date are you looking for? The list below is in chronological order. Looking for free things to do? There’s a separate post for free holiday events.
Crook House Museum Christmas
Where: Crook House Museum, 5730 N. 30th St., Building 11B
When: Through Jan. 11, 2026; closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day
What: The early Italianate style home of Gen. George Crook is on the National Register of Historic Places. Each room is extravagantly decorated for the holidays each year. Admission during the holiday season is $10 for adults; $9 for seniors, non-MCC students and military; and $5 for children ages 4-12; members admitted free. Cookies and cider included with admission.
Zoolightful
Where: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
When: Nov. 19 through Jan. 11, 2026 (excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.) Hours are 6 to 9:30 p.m.
What: Zoolightful is an evening event at the zoo featuring displays of archways and sculptures aglow, activities like sliding down the 120-foot slides and decorating gingerbread sweets. Santa will also be at the event. Cost is $26 for ages 12+ and $16 for those under 12. Members receive 25% off tickets.
“Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some)”
Where: BLUEBARN Theatre, 1106 S. 10th St.
When: Nov. 20 through Dec. 20. NOTE: Every regular performance is sold out but the theater has added a 2 p.m. performance on Dec. 20
What: Three actors. A million Christmas stories. One wildly fast and hilarious mashup that’s part ”A Christmas Carol,” part ”The Grinch,” and part ”Die Hard.”
“A Christmas Carol: 50th Anniversary”
Where: Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St.
When: Nov. 21 through Dec. 21
What: An annual tradition for 50 years, the classic tale by Charles Dickens features Ebenezer Scrooge on a life-changing journey to discover the true meaning of Christmas.
Holiday Workshops
Where: Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St.
When: Various dates and times
What: Festive workshops held at Laurtizen Gardens include Ceramics: Santa and Snowflakes on Nov. 21 from 6 to 9 p.m.; Holiday Card and Gift Tag Craft on Nov. 22 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.; Botanical Design: Thanksgiving Centerpiece on Nov. 24 from 6 to 7 p.m.; Family Workshop: Gingerbread Houses on Dec. 6, 13, and 20 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.; Candle Making: Christmas Candles on Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.; and Botanical Design: Winter Wreath on Dec. 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. Pre-registration required at least one week before the workshop. Cost varies.
Santa’s Rock N Lights
Where: Werner Park Parking Lot, 12356 Ballpark Way, Papillion, Neb.
When: Nov. 21 through Dec. 31
What: A one-mile drive-thru experience of lights dancing to music. Tickets range from $29.99 to $44.99 depending on the day. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.
Falconwood Frosty Nights Christmas Village & Lights
When: Nov. 22 through Jan. 1, 2026; hours are 4 to 9 p.m. on the weekdays and 4 to 10 p.m. on the weekends. NOTE: Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, except for the week of Christmas.
Where: Falconwood Park, 905 Allied Road, Bellevue, Neb.
What: A brand new event, Frosty Nights Christmas Village features light displays including a 150-foot tunnel of lights, a Holiday Market, Santa’s Village, outdoor activities like snowless sledding, a chance to meet characters and reindeer, music, food trucks and more. Cost is $24 for adults and $13 for kids (ages 3-12) in advance; season passes also available.
More Holiday Fun Right This Way
There’s more going on in Omaha in November and December. If you’re looking for Santa sightings, free events, or festive pop-up bars, click a story link below!
Merry & Bright: Holiday Poinsettia Show
Where: Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St.
When: Nov. 28 through Dec. 31
What: See the iconic 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree, tour through the lush conservatory to see the holiday express, or roast marshmallows on the festival garden patio. Bright Nights, which runs from 4 to 9 p.m., will be held on Nov. 28-30, and Dec. 3-7, 10-23, and 28-31; it’s a separate ticket not included with regular garden admission.
Santa’s Magic
Where: Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St.
When: Nov. 28 through Dec. 23
What: This annual temporary experience features a short interactive show and a chance to visit with Santa. It’s included with museum admission.
Christmas at Union Station
Where: The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St.
When: Nov. 28 through Jan. 11, 2026.
What: An annual event at the museum, Christmas at Union Station kicks off with a tree lighting ceremony the Friday after Thanksgiving, followed by weeks of festive displays, performances, and chances to meet Santa.
Traditional British Christmas Lunch
Where: Chippy’s Omaha, 2718 123rd Court
When: Nov. 30, Dec. 7, Dec. 14 (SOLD OUT), Dec. 21 and Dec. 24.
What: A turkey lunch with all the trimmings (including mince pie, custard and a cup of tea). Cost is $29.99. Reservations required; call (402) 330-3020 or stop by the store.
Give The Gift of Shhhhh Movie Series
Where: Alamo Drafthouse, 12750 Westport Parkway, La Vista, Neb.
When: Nov. 30 through Dec. 24, times vary
What: Classic holiday films played on the big screen. Movie Parties involve props and audience participation. Titles include “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (Movie Party) on Nov. 30 and Dec. 14 & 21; “Little Women” on Dec. 1; “Elf” (Movie Party) on Dec. 3, 6, 17 & 20; “The Holiday” on Dec. 7; “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (Movie Party) on Dec. 13 & 14; “The Polar Express” (Movie Party) on Dec. 15; and “It’s A Wonderful Life” on Dec. 24.
Holiday Retro Movie Series
When: Dec. 1-17
Where: B&B Theatres, 3555 S. 140th Plaza
What: The movie series features classics like “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (Dec. 1 & 3), “Elf” (Dec. 8 & 10) and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (Dec. 12-17). Tickets are $8.
Holiday Nights Under the Lights
When: Dec. 1-31 from 3 to 8 p.m.
Where: KIPP Omaha, 14445 W. Center Road, Suite 101
What: The indoor playground is transformed into a glowing wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights and the main lights dimmed. It’s included with regular admission and is free for members.
“Christmas Cookies”
Where: Shelterbelt Theater at The Omar, 4383 Nicholas St., Suite 204
When: Dec. 4-21. Performances are Thursdays and Fridays at 7 p.m.,Saturdays at 2 p.m., and Sundays at 6 p.m.
What: The Omaha premiere of a play about a woman who assumes no one knows she and her husband are separated, so she breaks into their old home to host her annual holiday cookie exchange.
Little Bohemia Holiday Stroll
Where: Little Bohemia Neighborhood, around north 13th Street between William and Hickory streets
When: Thursdays, Dec. 4-18 from 4 to 8 p.m.
What: Participating businesses in Little Bohemia will offer different experiences and activities during the Holiday Stroll.
“The Pigeon Gets A Big Time Holiday Extravaganza!”
Where: The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St.
When: Dec. 5-21; performances are Fridays at 6:30 p.m., Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m.
What: Mo Willems’ characters get together for the holidays, including Unlimited Squirrels, Pigeon, and Elephant and Piggie.
Season’s Screenings Retro Series
Where: Majestic Cinema of Omaha, 14304 West Maple Road, Village Pointe Cinema, 304 N. 174th St., and Twin Creek Cinema, 3909 Raynor Parkway, Bellevue, Neb.
When: Dec. 5-21, showtimes vary
What: Classic holiday films on the big screen, and only $6 per ticket. Films features: “The Grinch” and “Elf” (Dec. 5-11), and “White Christmas,” “It’s A Wonderful Life,” “How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” “The Polar Express,” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (Dec. 12-18)
“One Christmas Eve at Evergreen Mall”
Where: Lofte Community Theater, 15841 Manley Road, Manley, Neb.
When: Dec. 6-21; performances are Thursdays through Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
What: The play features eight intertwined stories in a Midwestern mall on the last day of shopping before the holiday.
Reindeer Games Escape Room
Where: House of Conundrum, 2564 Leavenworth St.
When: By reservation
What: This is a limited time escape room theme for the holidays. Help the elves save the day before time runs out.
Behind-The-Scenes: Christmas at Union Station
Where: The Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St.
When: Dec. 9 at 4p.m., and Dec. 14, 17, 21, and 22 at noon.
What: Tour the museum to hear holiday stories and see artifacts from Christmas at Union Station going all the way back when the station was alive with travelers and holiday cheer. A knowledgeable guide will share rare scenes from our Photo Archive, take you to the museum’s Collections spaces and give you a gift-wrapped behind-the-scenes experience fit for this time of year. Cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members.
“Meet Me in St. Louis”
Where: Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center, 1001 S. Sixth St., Council Bluffs, Iowa
When: Dec. 11-21
What: Chanticleer Community Theater presents this musical, which features the iconic song “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
A Very Scary Christmas
Where: Hillside House of Hell, 114 Green St., Glenwood, Iowa
When: Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20 from 7 to 11 p.m.
What: It’s a haunted house with a twist…the misfits of have taken over Hillside, decking the halls with ho-ho-horror. Tickets are $39.99.
“RAIN: A Beatles Christmas Tribute”
Where: Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St.
When: Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
What: The all-ages show features holiday favorites alongside memorable Beatles’ hits.
Holiday Repertory Films
Where: Film Streams, some at Ruth Sokolof and some at Dundee
When: Various dates Dec. 16-24 at 6:30 p.m.
What: Film Streams is bringing out some of the classics for one-night only showings. Films include “Gremlins” (Dec. 16), “The Holdovers” (Dec. 18), “Little Women” (Dec. 19), “Trading Places” (Dec. 23) and “It’s A Wonderful Life” (Dec. 23 & 24).
Santa’s Workshop
Where: Papillion Landing, 1046 W. Lincoln St., Papillion, Neb.
When: Dec. 17 from 5 to 7 p.m.
What: This new event features pictures with Santa, holiday crafts and activities, story time, and cookies & cocoa. Cost is $15 per person and children must be accompanied by adults.
“A Magical Cirque Christmas”
Where: Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St.
When: Dec. 18 at 7 p.m.
What: Capturing the charm and enchantment of a circus performance and blending it seamlessly with the nostalgia of Christmas, “A Magical Cirque Christmas” features the most extraordinary talent from around the world.
Yacht Rock Christmas
Where: Crescent Moon Ale House, 3578 Farnam St.
When: Dec. 18 from 7 to 11 p.m.
What: Enjoy yacht rock in the pop-up bar, Under The Mistletoe, with DJs Dark and Stormy. There will also be trivia with prizes.
Lonestar and Collin Raye: 2025 Christmas & Hits
Where: Holland Center, 1200 Douglas St.
When: Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m.
What: Celebrated country acts Lonestar and Collin Raye team up to fill your holiday with soul! From Lonestar’s ballad “Amazed” to Collin Raye’s breakout “Love, Me,” these performers deliver the perfect mix of hits and heart.
Krampus Party
Where: Edge of the Universe, 6070 Maple St.
When: Dec. 19 at 8 p.m.
What: A night at Edge of the Universe where everyone is encouraged to come dressed to impress…in Krampus horns. Best Krampus of the night wins a $100 gift card. No tickets needed. Those that arrive by a ride service like Lyft or Uber will receive $3 off their order.
Evandale: Ugly Sweater Party
Where: Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.
When: Dec. 19 at 8 p.m.
What: This festive concert features the hard rock band, Evandale, with openers Entundra and Anyone Else.
PetRock’s Holiday Spectacular
Where: Slowdown, 729 N 14th St
When: Dec. 19 & 20 at 7:30 p.m.
What: An annual, all-ages holiday favorite, PetRock is driven by a deep and everlasting love of the iconic and timeless music of the 70s. Add some holiday flair, and you get the Holiday Spectacular.
“A Krampus Carol”
Where: Ghost Light Theatre, 2221 Thurston Circle, Bellevue, Neb.
When: Dec. 19-21; performances are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.
What: SNAP! Productions has a holiday show! Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students (with ID).
Santa Special Playdate
Where: Chirpy’s Play Cafe, 2063 Creek Side Drive, Papillion, Neb.
When: Dec. 20 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
What: A play session that includes meetings Santa, story time with an elf, and a plus reindeer to take home. Cost is $35 for the first child, $25 for each additional child, and $5 for each adult.
Rockin’ Around The Depot
Where: RailsWest History Museum, 1512 S. Main St., Council Bluffs, Iowa
When: Dec. 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
What: A festive, family-friendly event with crafts, games, hot chocolate, history, trains, and live music by Hector Anchando. It’s include with regular admission
Kids Christmas Movie Night In
Where: The Fireside Banquet Room, 841 Tara Plaza, Papillion, Neb.
When: Dec. 20 from 6 to 9 p.m.
What: The venue is turned into a giant living room for a movie night. Bring blankets, soft chairs, and air mattresses. Tickets are $8 each, and include a scoop of frozen custard with sprinkles from Sprinkle Joy.
Christmas In Taylorville
Where: Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St.
When: Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.
What: This concert is a tribute to Taylor Swift. The amount of holiday cheer is questionable, but it still counts.
Greg Owen & Kevin Lloyd’s Organ Masters Christmas Concert
Where: Wilson Performing Arts Center, 300 Commerce Drive, Red Oak, Iowa
When: Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
What: This holiday show features two organ masters.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis
Where: Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St.
When: Dec. 20 at 3 and 8 p.m. and Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.
What: It’s not Christmas until Mannheim Steamroller plays at the Orpheum each year. This annual concert features music that blends classical, new-age, and rock music.
Holiday Skate
Where: Motto McLean Ice Arena, 5015 S. 45th St.
When: Dec. 20 from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. & 1:45 to 3:45 p.m.; Dec. 22 & 23 from 1 to 3:15 p.m.; Dec. 25 from 2:45 to 5 p.m.; Dec. 26 from 1 to 3:15 p.m.; Dec. 27 from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. & 1:45 to 3:45 p.m.; Dec. 29, 30 & 31 from 1 to 3:15 p.m.; and Jan. 1 from 1 to 3:15 p.m. & 3:45 to 6 p.m.
What: Special ice skating sessions with $5 admission, including skate rental.
Cozy Holiday Sunday
Where: KIPP Omaha, 14445 W. Center Road, Suite 101
When: Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon
What: Wear your comfiest holiday pajamas and enjoy a cozy, relaxing morning, complete with a hot cocoa station, popcorn & cookies, a holiday movie playing in the large party room, and a meet-and-greet with a Kipp elf. It’s included with regular admission.
Holiday Brunch Buffet
Where: Crescent Moon Ale House, 3578 Farnam St
When: Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
What: Santa visits from noon to 1 p.m. during this brunch buffet. The buffet includes a ham carving station, an omelet station, cinnamon roll bread pudding and more.
Grinch Drag Brunch + Ugly Sweater Contest (SOLD OUT)
Where: Funny Bone, 710 N. 114th St., Suite 210
When: Dec. 21 from 2 to 4 p.m.
What: It’s “a ridiculous-themed drag brunch to everyone’s favorite holiday character. You’ll be laughing and singing along with the grinch.” And yes, there’s also an ugly sweater contest, so dress appropriately. Brunch is hosted by The Widow Von Du (“RuPaul’s Drag Race”).
Holiday Hustle 5K
Where: Start/Finish line at boat dock at the Prairie Queen Lake, east of 132nd and Cornhusker Road intersection
When: Dec. 21 at 4 p.m.
What: For this 5K holiday-themed run, better bring your Santa hat or Elf costume. Post-race party is at Lucky Bucket Brewery.
The Nightmare AFTER Christmas: Holiday Costume Soiree and Karaoke Party
Where: Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave.
When: Dec. 26 at 8 p.m.
What: The night includes a costume contest with a $50 cash prize, on-stage karaoke, a performance from the Band, and more.
Please leave a comment or email me at Kim (at) ohmyomaha (dot) com if you know of an event or gift drive to include in this list!
