Things to do in Omaha in Winter – 2024/2025 Guide

Dec 13, 2024

As the new year begins, Omaha’s eclectic neighborhoods are putting the finishing touches on exciting events to make your winter unforgettable.  If you’re looking for cultural experiences, dazzling light displays, or family-friendly outings, look no further than the events and experiences listed below. From unique expos to fun cocktail crawls at Midtown Crossing to family-friendly events at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this winter season. Mark your calendar, call your friends, and check out these winter events throughout the Omaha area.

Take advantage of these winter events throughout Omaha.

Downtown and Midtown Omaha

Season of Lights    

  • Location: Turner Park, Midtown Crossing, Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: Nightly through February 14, 2025
  • Cost: Free
  • Details: Stroll through Turner Park and Midtown Crossing as thousands of white LED lights illuminate the area, creating a magical winter atmosphere. Pair your walk with a warm drink or a cozy meal at one of Midtown Crossing’s locally-owned restaurants. If you’re looking for a festive light display in Omaha, look no further than Midtown Crossing.


Holiday Lights Festival

  • Location: Downtown Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: Nightly through January, 2025
  • Cost: Free
  • Details: Explore Downtown Omaha’s stunning holiday light displays, including the Gene Leahy Mall and Old Market areas. The lights, along with special events, bring warmth and cheer to the heart of the city.

Cultural opportunities

Czech and Slovak Exhibit

  • Location: Czech and Slovak Educational Center and Cultural Museum, 8106 S. 84th St., La Vista, NE
  • Schedule: Open Saturdays from 10 am to 5 pm and Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm
  • Cost: Free
  • Details: Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Czech and Slovak cultures with this unique holiday exhibit, showcasing festive decorations, music, and heritage artifacts.

Omaha’s Zoo

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

  • Location: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, 3701 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: Open from 10 am to 4 pm daily
  • Cost: Zoo admission required (discounts available for members)
  • Details: A perfect winter outing for families and friends.

Art and entertainment

Hot Shops Art Center

  • Location: Hot Shops Art Center, 1301 Nicholas St., Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: Open daily (weekdays: 10:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m.; weekends: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) + scheduled classes
  • Cost: Free to visit (suggested $5 donation at the door); class fees vary.
  • Details: Discover Omaha’s vibrant arts scene at Hot Shops Art Center. Meet local artists, view live demonstrations, and shop for one-of-a-kind handcrafted items. Enjoy winter classes, including Lampworking, Pottery, and Lazy Sunday Art Club.

Andrea Bocelli in Concert

  • Location: CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: February 6, 2025, at 8:00 p.m.
  • Cost: Tickets available through the CHI Health Center box office
  • Details: World-renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli brings his soaring vocals to Omaha for an unforgettable evening.

Oddities and Curiosities Expo 2025

  • Location: CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: January 25, 2025; 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Cost: Admission details available on the event website
  • Details: Explore a unique showcase of vendors, artists, and dealers specializing in all things weird and unusual.    

“Clue – A New Comedy”

  • Location: Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St., Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: January 7-12, 2025; showtimes vary
  • Cost: Tickets available through the Orpheum Theater box office
  • Details: Experience the classic board game come to life in this hilarious new comedy. If you’re looking for engaging theater in Omaha, look no further than the Orpheum Theater. Find great activities and events to do around Midtown Omaha all year round.    

“Kimberly Akimbo”

  • Location: Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St., Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: February 11-16, 2025; showtimes vary
  • Cost: Tickets available through the Orpheum Theater box office
  • Details: Don’t miss this heartwarming Broadway musical during its Omaha run, offering both laughs and touching moments.

Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan Live

  • Location: CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: January 17, 2025
  • Cost: Ticket information available on the venue’s website
  • Details: Enjoy a night of laughter with two of comedy’s biggest names as they perform together in this exclusive event.

Lawn and Garden    

Omaha Lawn, Flower, and Patio Show

  • Location: CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., Omaha, NE
  • Schedule: January 31 – February 2, 2025
  • Cost: Admission details available on the event website
  • Details: Dreaming of spring? This annual showcase of home, garden, and outdoor living ideas is just what you need.

Lauritzen Gardens Wonders of the World

  • Location: Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St., Omaha, NE 68108
  • Schedule: January 18-May 11, 2025
  • Cost: Included with paid garden admission
  • Details:  Wonders of the World will take you on a journey across continents, with bridge-chugging, tunnel-zooming G-scale train lines winding through replicas of ancient wonders and modern marvels.

There’s no need to travel with events and activities throughout the Omaha area. There’s so much to do and so many exhibits and events to take advantage of. If you’re looking for inspiring exhibits, entertaining shows, or magical light displays, Omaha has you covered. Omaha promises an engaging winter season filled with lights, culture, and entertainment.    

Events at Midtown Crossing

Events

With a thriving entertainment and festival scene, there’s always something fun to do at Midtown Crossing.

Preview of Midtown Crossing neighborhood map

DIRECTORY MAP

Navigate your way through Omaha’s favorite walkable neighborhood, including local businesses, Turner Park & parking.

Person tossing pizza at Smokin Oak

EAT & DRINK

Whether you’re looking for a place to spend an evening, a quick lunch, happy hour after work, or want to expand your culinary palette, the Midtown Crossing offers something for everyone.

People walking down the sidewalk

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Learn more about Midtown Crossing, including history, accessibility, pet-friendly offerings and more.