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, 2026
- 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, 2026
- 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.
Farnam Winter Pop-Up
- Location: 3220 Farnam Street, Suite 2101
- Schedule: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, November 29, 2025 – January 11, 2026
- Cost: Free
- Details: Discover a handpicked medley of 15 locally owned shops at Omaha’s newest urban holiday destination! Explore handmade goods, artisan foods, boutique finds, curated gifts, and more — all in one festive Midtown location. Support local, shop small, and celebrate the season with two hours of free garage parking.
Cultural Opportunities
The Durham Museum
- Location: 801 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE
- Schedule: Tuesday–Saturday 10 am–4 pm; Sunday 11 am–4 pm; some late Tuesday hours until 8 pm
- Cost: Admission Details
- Details: Interactive history exhibits in Omaha’s historic Union Station. Great for families seeking indoor winter fun.
- Current Exhibits:
- Hockey: Faster than Ever
- Christmas at Union Station
- Woven with History
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.
Orpheum Theatre
- Location: 409 S. 16th St., Omaha, NE
- Schedule: Schedule
- Cost: Tickets
- Details: This winter, the historic Orpheum Theater shines brightly in downtown Omaha with a lineup that’s as cozy as it is captivating. From heart-warming holiday favorites to high-energy musicals, there’s something for every kind of theater lover.
- A few upcoming shows include:
- The Wiz: Nov 18–23, 2025
- American Midwest Ballet: The Nutcracker: Dec 4–7, 2025
- The Notebook – The Musical: Dec 9–14, 2025
- Mannheim Steamroller Christmas: Dec 20–21, 2025
Joslyn Art Museum
- Location: 2200 Dodge St., Omaha, NE
- Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm; Wednesday and Thursday open late until 8pm; Closed Mondays
- Cost: Free
- Details: Explore contemporary and immersive art alongside the museum’s permanent collection. Perfect for a cozy winter outing.
- Current Exhibits:
- Lucas Samaras: Polaroids (Sept 20, 2025–Feb 22, 2026)
- Paul Pfeiffer: Red Green Blue (Oct 11, 2025–Apr 26, 2026)
Sports, Lawn and Garden
Creighton Basketball Games
- Location: CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., Omaha, NE
- Schedule: Women’s Basketball Schedule | Men’s Basketball Schedule
- Cost: Tickets
- Details: Cheer on the Bluejays all winter long, right here in Omaha!
Omaha Supernovas Volleyball Games
- Location: CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., Omaha, NE
- Schedule: Schedule
- Cost: Tickets
- Details: Can’t-miss professional volleyball action right here in Omaha!
Omaha Lawn, Flower, and Patio Show
- Location: CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., Omaha, NE
- Schedule: January 30 – February 1, 2026
- 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.
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.
