Omaha Holiday Lights Festival
Omaha's Holiday Lights Festival returns for its 27th season, transforming the city into a winter wonderland from November 29 through January 1. Visitors can explore dazzling light displays across Old Market, North and South Omaha, and the expansive 72 acres of The RiverFront. The festival kicks off with a Lighting Ceremony and features a KETV Family Festival with activities at various downtown attractions, culminating in a spectacular New Year's Eve Fireworks show.
What to Expect
City-wide dazzling light displays and festive events
Event Details
Duration
Daily
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Omaha
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Holiday Lights Festival
Food & Drink
Food trucks and beverage vendors available
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, friends
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$
- Parking: Parking meters will be free after 5 PM on New Year's Eve.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Check the event schedule for specific dates and times for the Lighting Ceremony, Family Festival, and New Year's Eve Fireworks to plan your visit.
- Utilize the free Ollie the Trolley and charter buses for easy transportation between venues during the KETV Family Festival.
- For New Year's Eve, consider arriving early to find a good viewing spot along The RiverFront or in the Old Market, and tune into STAR 104.5 for the synchronized music.
- Explore the different lighting display areas, from the historic Old Market to the modern RiverFront, to experience a variety of festive atmospheres.
- Consider visiting on a weekday evening for a potentially less crowded experience, especially if you want to enjoy the light displays at your own pace.
Special Events & Promotions
- Lighting Ceremony with Mayor and emcee
- KETV Family Festival with free trolley transportation
- New Year's Eve Fireworks Spectacular with STAR 104.5 broadcast
- Shine the Light on Hunger campaign for Food Bank for the Heartland
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for the Holiday Lights Festival?
The festival runs annually from November 29 through January 1.
Are there any special events during the festival?
Yes, key events include the Lighting Ceremony, the KETV Family Festival, and the New Year's Eve Fireworks Spectacular.
Is there free transportation available?
During the KETV Family Festival, Ollie the Trolley and charter buses provide free transportation between participating downtown venues.
Where are the main lighting displays located?
Major displays can be found in the Old Market, North Omaha, South Omaha, and throughout The RiverFront park.
Is there a cost to attend the festival?
Viewing the light displays and attending the Lighting Ceremony and New Year's Eve Fireworks are generally free. Some activities during the Family Festival may have associated costs at individual venues, but transportation is free.
More Christmas Events Near Omaha
More Christmas Events near Omaha
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.