11 Winter Festivals In Nebraska That Are Simply Unforgettable
By Delana Lefevers
|
Published November 28, 2016
You’ll never be at a loss for things to do in Nebraska in the Christmas season. We’re always celebrating in some way, from bake sales to craft fairs to Santa visits to town-wide festivals. Though we can’t possibly list all of the Christmas festivals taking place this November and December, these are a few highlights that you’re sure to love.
1. Santa Goes to Space, SAC Museum - Ashland
Santa and the Imperial Stormtroopers will invade the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum for this fun family event. Kids can sit in a mini-F4 fighter jet, visit with Santa, and check out some special science demonstrations.
Saturday, December 3rd, 10 am to 2 pm -
more information here.
2. Christmas At The Codys' - North Platte
This beloved North Platte tradition has brought generations of Nebraskans out to Buffalo Bill's ranch for a whole month of Christmas cheer and lavish decorations. (And don't forget to check out
the other celebrations North Platte puts on during the holiday season.)
Sunday December 9 – 11; 16-18; and Thursday and Friday December 22 and 23, from 5:30pm to 8:00pm.
Get more information here.
3. Christmas Walk - Kearney
Visit Kearney's historic downtown for an evening of family fun. There will be caroling, a live nativity, Santa and Mrs. Claus with their live reindeer, hayrack rides, and treats for everyone. It sounds like a great time!
Thursday, December 1st, 5 to 8 pm.
Find more information here.
4. Come & Celebrate the Holidays in Geneva
A variety of events are happening throughout December, including a visit from Santa, The Holiday Tour of Homes, The Christmas Store for kids, special movies screenings, and a community Christmas dinner.
Read more about it here.
5. Christmas Past and Present, Stuhr Museum - Grand Island
The Stuhr Museum has several events going on during the holidays, but this is their "signature" Christmas events. See what Christmas was like way back when by wandering the 1890s Railroad Town and visiting the various homes and businesses there. There are different activities in each one!
December 3, 9, 10 & 11 (with a Members Only night on December 2nd).
Get more information here.
6. Light of the World Pageant and Family Fun Under the Lights - Minden
The lighting ceremony for Nebraska's Christmas City has already passed, but there are still plenty of ways to have fun.
The pageant will go on again on December 4th and 11th, and kids can enjoy bounce houses from November 25th through December 3rd.
Get more details here.
7. Holiday Trolley Tour of Lights - Nebraska City
While the historic Arbor Lodge Mansion is all dressed up for the holiday season and open for visitors, it's the troller tour that really steals the spotlight. Take a one-hour trolley ride to see the best Christmas light displays in Nebraska City while listening to a reading of the classic book
The Polar Express. The rides fill up fast, so
go here for dates, times, and reservation info.
8. Odell Community Christmas - Odell
The tiny village of Odell gets the small-town Christmas celebration just right. A soup luncheon, turkey an ham giveaway, adorable kids providing entertainment, and a visit from Santa will fill the day with cheer.
Saturday, December 10th.
Read more about it here.
9. Christmas At Union Station - Omaha
One of Omaha's best-loved Christmas festivals takes place at The Durham Museum. Festivities stretch all through December, with live entertainment, plenty of visits from Santa, and several ethnic festivals, among other treats.
Get more details here.
10. Christmas On The Prairie, Scotts Bluff National Monument - Gering
Have you ever wondered what Christmas was like for pioneers and settlers in Nebraska? This fun event will take you back in time while you enjoy some treats, do some crafts, and listen to live entertainment.
Saturday, December 3rd, 10 am to 4 pm.
Find out more here.
11. Christmas On The Square - Tecumseh
Tecumseh celebrates large with a chili/soup cook-off, a tree decorating contest, musical entertainment and a special dinner with Santa just for kids.
Sunday, December 4th -
More information here.
I’m always impressed by how much fun Nebraska is able to pack into every small-town Christmas festival. How many will you be attending this year? Did we miss your favorite? Tell us about it in the comments.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Related Articles
Explore Nebraska