Each month brings new ways to make memories in Omaha. In December, the city glows with holiday cheer, festive lights and cozy traditions that make the season bright. Plan for a holiday weekend with these 10 holiday ideas.
1. Be Merry and Bright at Omaha’s Botanical Gardens
Step into a winter wonderland at Lauritzen Gardens, where thousands of poinsettias fill the floral display hall during the annual Holiday Poinsettia Show. The centerpiece — a 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree — creates the perfect backdrop for family photos. Wander through festive foliage, sparkling ornaments and model garden trains. Visit on select evenings for Bright Nights, when the gardens glow under twinkling lights.
2. Experience Holiday Cheer at Local Spots
Raise a glass to the season at Omaha’s most festive hangouts. Midtown’s Mercury is a mid-century holiday lounge dripping in vintage décor. In Benson, Edge of the Universe is a themed café filled with whimsy and warmth. Downtown, stop by La Buvette for lights, music and mulled wine, or visit Tannenbaum, where it’s Christmas year-round.
3. Feel the Magic of the Season
Omaha’s Old Market Passageway is picture-perfect any time of year, but in December it sparkles. Greenery, lights, and brick charm combine to make this one of the city’s most enchanting photo stops.
4. Find the Perfect Gifts in Omaha
Omaha’s peppered with one-of-a-kind shops, intimate boutiques, and classic names at shopping malls and neighborhood centers. Shops of Legacy, Countryside Village, and Rockbrook Village offer unique options in Omaha. Village Pointe offers festive Main Street-style outdoor shopping. Westroads Mall offers mainstream options amongst holiday décor along with food hall Flagship Commons and its roaring fireplace. Don’t worry; we have plenty more ideas for where to go on your next shopping trip.
5. Taste a True Omaha Tradition
No Omaha holiday is complete without a slice of Lithuanian Bakery’s Napoleon Torte. The iconic 17-layer dessert — filled with buttercream and apricot — has been a local favorite for decades. The bakery also offers specialty breads and other festive European treats worth gifting (or keeping).
6. Drop Letters to Santa Off at the Omaha Visitors Center
Kids can drop off their letters to Santa at the Omaha Visitors Center — and he’ll even write back! While you’re there, chat with one of our friendly visitor ambassadors for insider tips on the best things to do in Omaha this holiday season.
7. Admire Lights Around the City
From downtown to the suburbs, Omaha glitters with lights all month long. Bundle up and take a self-guided tour of the city’s best holiday light displays — including festive spots at The RiverFront, Midtown Crossing, The Old Market, North Omaha and South Omaha.
8. View Historic Holiday Decor
Experience Christmas past at the General Crook House Museum, decorated each year in stunning period style. Built in 1879, this Italianate home offers a glimpse into 19th-century life on the Frontier. Other must-see historic homes decked out for the season include Joslyn Castle and the Historic General Dodge House in Council Bluffs.
9. Meet Omaha’s Local Makers at Hot Shops
Omaha’s Hot Shops Art Center buzzes with creativity year-round, but its Winter Open House is a holiday highlight. Watch glass blowing, clay firing, bronze pouring and more during artist demos. Chat with makers, explore 90+ studios and find one-of-a-kind gifts. Can’t make the event? Stop by anytime to shop local art.
10. Celebrate Nature at Fontenelle Forest
Head to Fontenelle Forest for the annual Winter Wonderland celebration. Enjoy family-friendly fun like crafts, cocoa, photos with Santa and raptor meet-and-greets. Throughout December, stroll the lighted Riverview Boardwalk and soak up the peaceful beauty of the forest.
Ready to keep the holiday spirit going? Explore more holiday lights, festive events and winter experiences across the city — from a festive zoo to live shows and cozy winter bites.
