Get ready to be dazzled by Omaha’s festive finery! From twinkling neighborhood streets to grand-scale displays, we’ve got the scoop on the city’s most enchanting holiday light destinations. Bundle up, grab dinner, and make a night of it with our guide to Omaha’s best holiday lights.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to many of Omaha’s holiday light attractions in Omaha for 2024, including specific locations, lighting schedules, and additional useful details.
Downtown Omaha
Holiday Lights Festival at The RiverFront
Beginning with a lighting ceremony on November 30 at 6 p.m., the festival features traditional white tree lights and colorful ornaments throughout the general area. A vibrant and colorful seven-minute multimedia show will be held on Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the holiday season.
- Location: Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront, 1001 Douglas St
- Lighting Schedule: November 30, 2024, through January 1, 2025
- Other: Every Friday and Saturday night, enjoy the multimedia show projected onto the Gene Leahy Mall Performance Pavillion, the Burlington Building, and the 10th Street Bridge video wall.
Old Market Entertainment District
The Old Market is so special during the holiday season. Stroll the historic brick streets, enjoying thousands of twinkling lights. Landmark buildings are decorated with lights, greenery, and bows, creating a charming holiday atmosphere.
- Location: Harney to Jackson Streets & 10th to 13th Streets
- Lighting Schedule: November 30, 2024, through January 1, 2025
ZOOLIGHTFUL
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
Celebrate the season at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. Guests will enjoy the holiday light displays and unique experiences throughout the Zoo including Lay of the Lands, Santa’s North Pole, Gingerbread Village and Private Igloo Rentals. So much to explore and enjoy this season
Event Hours: Sunday – Wednesday from 6 to 9 pm and Thursday – Saturday from 6 to 9:30 pm. No Zoolight event will take place on November 28, December 24, 25 and 31. The Zoo is closed November 28 and December 25.
Location: 3701 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68107
Midtown Omaha
Midtown Crossing
Tens of thousands of white LED lights illuminate Turner Park and along Farnam Street, setting a magical mood in the Midtown Crossing entertainment and food district. Visitors can admire the decorated tree in Farnam Court, take photos in the beautiful red sleigh, and enjoy delicious and eclectic dining experiences, including Asian fare, burgers and wings, wood-fired pizza, creamy ice cream and so much more. Stop by Omaha’s favorite winter market – the Midtown Merry Market – on Sunday, November 17th from 11 am to 4 pm. And, take advantage of some of Omaha’s most popular themed crawl events throughout December, January and February. For an unforgettable Omaha experience, look no further than Midtown Crossing.
- Turner Park at Midtown Crossing
- Location: 3110 Farnam St
Lighting Schedule: November 16, 2024, through February 14, 2025
Lights of Aksarben
Cheers to the holiday season with a lighting of the Aksarben “tree” (a tower twinkling with lights) on Friday night. Be sure to walk around the Stinson Park grounds to see the lit trees and explore the area.
- Location: 2285 S 67th St.
- Lighting Schedule: Beginning November 24, 2024
South Omaha
South 24th Street
South Omaha comes alive with beautiful lights in Omaha’s historic South 24th Street District, accentuating its rich cultural heritage.
- Location: South 24th Street, from L Street to Q Street.
- Lighting Schedule: November 30, 2024, through January 1, 2025
North Omaha
North 24th Street
There are lights, lights, and more lights along a six-block area in Omaha’s historic North Omaha neighborhood, illuminating the community’s spirit.
- Location: North 24th Street, from Burdette Street to Ohio Street.
Lighting Schedule: November 30, 2024, through January 1, 2025
West Omaha
Village Pointe Shopping Center
Along with lights, enjoy a performance by the Peppermint Elves and a Santa parade with your favorite storybook and holiday characters. Free carriage rides are available every Saturday through December 23.
- Location: 17305 Davenport St
Lighting Schedule: Beginning November 29, 2024
Surrounding Areas
Shadow Lake Towne Center
Enjoy the lighting of a 35-foot tree with over 30,000 lights. Visits from Santa and his friends, a holiday parade, and festive lights throughout the season are also a part of the fun.
- Location: 7775 Olson Dr., Papillion, NE
Lighting Schedule: Beginning November 27, 2024
Downtown Ralston
Festive lights along the streets and local businesses provide a fun holiday experience.
- Location: Main Street, Ralston, NE
Lighting Schedule: Typically begins in late November
Santa’s Rockin’ Lights
Marvel in this mile-long display of lights and music. Timed tickets must be purchased in advance online.
- Location: Werner Park Papillion, NE
Lighting Schedule: November 22 to December 31, 2024
Special Lighting Attractions
Lauritzen Gardens – Bright Nights
Enjoy festivities throughout the season. Don’t miss the beautiful floral display hall and the conservatory. There are many. Don’t miss the beautiful floral display hall and the conservatory, which have many activities for all ages.
- Location: 100 Bancroft St., Omaha, NE
Lighting Schedule: Select nights from November 22 through December 31, 2024, from 4:30 to 9 p.m
Salvation Army Tree of Lights Family Festival
There will be free food, family-fun activities, and pictures with Santa. The show starts at 5:30 p.m. with a live musical performance and the lighting of the 75-foot-tall LED-enhanced Christmas Tree just before 6 p.m.
- Location: 90th and Dodge
Lighting Schedule: November 14, 2024, from 4 pm to 6 pm
Magical Lights of Omaha
Details: Experience a lively drive-thru Christmas light show synced to music featuring over a million lights. Tickets are required for entry and can be purchased online.
- Location: Lake Cunningham – 8305 Rainwood Rd., Omaha, NE
Lighting Schedule: November 29, 2024, through the holiday season
Tips for Enjoy Christmas Lights
Here are some tips to help you make the most of the festive season and enjoy the beautiful Christmas lights displays:
- Plan Ahead: Check the dates and times of Christmas lights displays in your area to avoid disappointment. Some displays may only be open on certain days or have limited hours.
- Dress Warmly: Wear warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves, to keep you cozy while you’re out enjoying the lights.
- Bring Hot Chocolate: Bring a thermos of hot chocolate to keep your hands warm and your spirits bright.
- Make it a Family Affair: Invite friends and family to join you for a fun and festive evening out.
- Take Your Time: Don’t rush! Take your time to enjoy the displays and take in all the festive sights and sounds.
- Be Respectful: Be mindful of private property and respect any areas that may be closed off to the public.
- Capture the Moment: Bring a camera to capture memories of your Christmas lights adventure.
- Get into the Spirit: Sing along to festive tunes, wear holiday-themed accessories, and get into the holiday spirit!
In conclusion, Omaha’s Christmas lights scene is a true winter wonderland, offering a diverse range of displays that cater to all ages and interests. From the magical atmosphere of the Holiday Lights Festival on the Riverfront to the heartwarming glow of the Lights of Aksarben, each display is a testament to the city’s festive spirit.
