Ah, Christmas in Nebraska. It’s the time of year when certain people love to put on warm pajamas, snuggle under a blanket, and watch some tear-jerking Hallmark movies. The residents of David City had the unique experience of living inside a Hallmark movie a few years ago, and by all accounts, it was a completely magical time.

David City is a Christmas town in Nebraska and it was the home of Joyce Hall, the founder of Hallmark. It's always been a sweet hometown sort of environment, but in recent years it's seen some hard times.
Courtesy of Erin Roh Photography
Traffic to the town -- and, in turn, local businesses -- had been drastically cut down by some highway construction issues.
Courtesy of Erin Roh Photography
With a population of just 2,900, David City needed a boost.
The town seemed to have lost a bit of Christmas spirit following the death of Jolene Fichtl, a local flower shop owner. Fichtl was the one who arranged most of the town's Christmas attractions every year, and the holiday spirit had waned in the years since her passing.
Courtesy of Erin Roh Photography
These challenges were part of the reason David City was chosen as the first "Hometown Christmas" location (the other being, of course, its ties to Joyce Hall).
Courtesy of Erin Roh Photography
Hallmark began the Hometown Christmas initiative as a way to give a boost to towns in need of a little love. And it really has turned into a Nebraska Christmas town.

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Hallmark contacted David City not long before the event was to happen.
Courtesy of Erin Roh Photography
A committee of local business people was tasked with putting up the new decorations that were donated by Hallmark. It seemed an almost impossible task, but by the time Santa and the Hallmark crew came around on October 30, 2019, David City was looking cheerful and bright -- one of the best Christmas towns in the U.S!
The event brought Christmas to David City quite early.
Courtesy of Erin Roh Photography
Santa rode into town in a 1910 Ford Model T and spent some time visiting with folks all over town. A Hallmark film crew was there, following Santa's movements and talking to David City residents. It truly was one of the best holiday events in Nebraska.
The day culminated in a big, cheerful tree lighting with Santa at the helm.
Courtesy of Erin Roh Photography
A crowd of 5,000 turned out to see the special moment, and they've kept coming ever since. David City residents call it a "Christmas miracle" - the Hallmark event has brought not only Christmas cheer back to the town, but has begun to attract a bit of tourism as well. And it's easy to see why! Who wouldn't want to visit some Hallmark-like towns during the holiday season?
If you're looking for "Christmas towns near me," be sure to visit David City. Even the Grinch couldn't dampen the holiday spirit in this little Butler County city! Hallmark has donated the Candy Cane Lane set they used in the video to the town; you can often see it light up the streets -- even today!
Courtesy of Erin Roh Photography
Head to David City during the holiday season this year to check out their beautiful Christmas transformation.

Take a look at this video by @nebraskapublicmedia:

What are your favorite ways to celebrate Christmas in Nebraska? Share your holiday traditions with us in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more ways to spread some holiday cheer, visit the best Christmas towns in Nebraska.

If you’re looking for a gift for someone special, check out the Best Gifts For The Traveler In Your Life.

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More to Explore

Winter In Nebraska

Elisa Regulski | November 04, 2022

Are there any Christmas tree farms in Nebraska?

There are so many enchanting Christmas tree farms in Nebraska. Here are a few:

  • Head over to Santa’s Woods. Located in the town of Blair, this jolly destination will fill you with holiday spirit. Breathe in the fresh scent of pine and pick out your perfect tree. On select dates, they even take guests on hayrack rides! It’s fun for the whole family!
  • For more fun, visit Frosty's Pines in Omaha. This family-owned business has sold affordable Christmas trees for over 20 years, and folks come from all over to find the perfect one. They’ll even cut down and tie the tree for you! Need more ideas?

 

Check out more of the best Christmas tree farms in Nebraska.

What are the best sled riding hills in Nebraska?

Sled riding is one of the best things about winter in Nebraska, and if you really want to enjoy the excitement, head over to the following places :

  • Eugene T. Mahoney State Park: Though these three hills are officially called “toboggan runs,” they are great for sledding and snow tubing too. The stunning scenery and thrilling rides will keep you coming back for more.
  • Cottonmill Park in Kearney: There are numerous hills to choose from, whether you’re looking for something adventurous or chill.
  • Chestnut Ridge Park in Gretna.  

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David City, NE 68632, USA