December in Omaha shines with festive cheer and exciting activities that turn the city into a lively holiday haven. The city’s rich offerings present an ideal blueprint for creating unforgettable experiences. Get ready to dive into a world where twinkling lights, spirited performances, and seasonal delicacies take center stage. Whether you’re a fan of magical stories like “Peter Pan” or captivating concerts such as Mannheim Steamroller, Omaha has you covered. This December, join the flurry as advent sermons echo through lit churches, workshop bells ring with dance classes, and every corner boasts its own celebration. From Cirque Musica to brunch gatherings, there’s no shortage of ways to cherish the season. Dive into our list to uncover the perfect blend of festive delight and local charm — it’s time to 10 Things to Do in December in Omaha.
Experience the Lights at Lauritzen Gardens
Omaha transforms into a holiday wonderland every December, and the Lauritzen Gardens shine at the heart of this transformation. Radiating with festive spirit, the botanical gardens offer an oasis of light and color, attracting families and visitors who are eager to get into the holiday spirit. From the luminescent displays to the iconic poinsettia tree, Lauritzen Gardens promises a memorable evening filled with enchantment.
Holiday Poinsettia Show
The sheer charm of the Holiday Poinsettia Show is unmatched. Vibrantly hued poinsettias adorn the sprawling floral halls in dazzling patterns. At the heart of it all stands a majestic 20-foot poinsettia tree, a testament to nature’s holiday gift to Omaha. These vibrant displays are designed for picture-perfect moments and offer memories that last long after the holiday season ends. As you wander through the garden, the whir and whistles from model trains weave another layer of enchantment, offering a nostalgic nod to holiday traditions cherished by many. For more details, check out the Lauritzen Gardens Holiday Poinsettia Show.
Bright Nights Events
On select evenings, Lauritzen Gardens extends its hours for Bright Nights Events. This is when the gardens truly come alive under the shimmering tapestry of festive lights. Imagine being enveloped by the twinkling glow of creatively arranged lights across lush, tropical gardens. Viewing the gardens in this extraordinary light offers an experience that feels both surreal and magical, a must-visit in December for Omaha residents and visitors alike. With the carefully crafted ambiance, it’s not just about viewing the lights; it’s about stepping into a dreamlike world experience it firsthand.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Lauritzen Gardens promises a light-laden experience this December that’s hard to forget.
Enjoy Festive Venues
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit by exploring Omaha’s vibrant spots that bring cheer with their stellar decorations and festive atmospheres. Cozy up with crafted cocktails or browse unique holiday treasures—add these joyous venues to your December itinerary.
Mercury Cocktail Lounge
Visit the Mercury Cocktail Lounge in Omaha for a nostalgic experience that blends the past with the present. Adorned with vintage décor, this chic spot serves up an impressive array of cocktails that could easily be described as works of art. With a menu that features everything from classic concoctions to innovative mixes like vodka, blackberry, and lime-laden drinks, there’s something for everyone to savor at Mercury. Whether you’re dropping by for a late-night treat or sipping on an inventive cocktail view more here, this lounge is the perfect backdrop for a festive night out.
Shopping in the Old Market
Omaha’s Old Market buzzes with activity during the holidays, offering shoppers a chance to find truly unique gifts for loved ones. Cobblestone streets lined with one-of-a-kind boutiques and vibrant markets create a shopping experience that’s both charming and festive. Discover timeless ornaments and holiday decorations at shops like Tannenbaum and indulge in comforting drinks nearby at renowned spots such as La Buvette. With its lively marketplace atmosphere and personality-laden shops, the Old Market is a treasure trove of holiday cheer.
Find Unique Gifts at Local Shops in Omaha
When you’re in Omaha during December, finding one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones becomes an adventure of its own. The charm of local shopping spots is unmatched, offering a delightful blend of ambiance and specialty products that cater to every taste.
Shops of Legacy and Village Pointe
Shops of Legacy stands as a beacon for discerning shoppers, offering a mix of locally owned boutiques and eateries. It’s not just a place to shop; it’s an experience where each store holds unique treasures waiting to be discovered. With fashionable boutiques, original gift stores, and relaxing salons encapsulating a festive spirit, this area truly embodies the essence of Omaha’s local flair. Curious to know more about what they offer? Learn about Shops of Legacy.
In contrast, Village Pointe embodies a more open-air setting, making it a hotspot for exquisite holiday shopping. Much like a bustling town square, it offers a diverse mix of retailers and dining options. This spot echoes the joy of December through its blend of brand stores and indie favorites, all decorated to capture the magic of the season. Want to explore what awaits you at Village Pointe? Discover Village Pointe.
Historic Shopping Experience
Stepping into Omaha’s historic shopping districts feels akin to taking a stroll through a charming fairy tale village. The Old Market is a quintessential destination for those seeking a blend of merry, unique finds, and nuggets of history. Walking down its cobblestone streets, you might forget the hustle of daily life as you immerse in its inviting shops and vibrant displays. Whether it’s intricate jewelry, handcrafted goods, or whimsical antiques, these stores transform shopping into a delightful quest. Settle into this storied area and enjoy the lively atmosphere it gifts every curious visitor.
December in Omaha isn’t complete without wandering through these magnificent spots, finding gifts that aren’t just purchases but stories waiting to be shared. So, why not make each present count this holiday season?
Savor Holiday Delicacies
When in Omaha this December, you’ll want to explore its rich tapestry of holiday flavors that unfurl like gifts from a Christmas stocking. From decadent sweets to other festive treats, the city offers a divine culinary journey perfect for the holiday season. Unwrap the season’s flavors with each delectable bite and discover the heartwarming stories behind them.
Lithuanian Bakery’s Specialties
Photo by Jonathan Borba
Nestled in Omaha, the Lithuanian Bakery crafts a tapestry of flavors that have enchanted palates for generations. Their Napoleon Torte stands at the hallmark of holiday indulgence. This iconic delight features crisp wafer layers meticulously layered with smooth vanilla and tangy apricot buttercream. It’s a labor of love, taking three days to prepare, which makes every bite a luxurious experience (order your own).
This bakery is also a haven for a variety of seasonal pastries. Whether you crave something rich with chocolate or a delicious blend of traditional and modern toppings, Lithuanian Bakery doesn’t disappoint. Their storied reputation extends beyond their doors and transports you to a warm, festive ambiance filled with spice and nostalgia (learn more).
Exploring these sweet experiences makes December in Omaha extraordinary, heightening each moment as if adding a pinch of cinnamon to hot cocoa. The Lithuanian Bakery is a delicious testament to heritage and tradition: a must-stop on your holiday adventure.
Family Activities and Seasonal Traditions
Embrace the warmth and wonder of December in Omaha with festive family activities that are cherished traditions for the holiday season. From mailing magical letters to Santa to exploring enchanting forest wonderlands, these experiences promise to create lasting memories for the whole family.
Letter to Santa at Omaha Visitors Center
Kick-off the holiday season by encouraging your little ones to share their Christmas wishes through the magic mailbox at the Omaha Visitors Center. This special mailbox is more than just a box; it’s a portal to the North Pole that ensures every letter reaches Santa. Each letter stands a chance to receive a personalized reply, making the experience extraordinary and mystical. Why not make writing this letter an annual family tradition, where imaginations run wild and every wish for Santa is captured in a heartfelt note? Let the adventure begin—help your child craft their wish list to the jolly old man, hand deliver their message, and marvel at the magic of Christmas unfold.
Fontenelle Forest Winter Wonderland
Photo by RDNE Stock project
Step into nature’s wintery embrace at the Fontenelle Forest Winter Wonderland. The forest comes alive with dazzling lights, festive decorations, and an array of family-friendly activities throughout December. Wander through the beautifully adorned paths teeming with artwork, nature-inspired crafts, and cheery holiday displays. Not to mention, no winter wonderland is complete without a visit from Santa Claus himself. Capture precious moments with Santa or create art pieces to hang on your own Christmas tree. This immersive escape into a holiday paradise promises to warm your heart and connect your family with joyful traditions.
Together, these activities offer a blend of magic, nature, and nostalgia, set against the backdrop of Omaha’s December charm. Make sure to incorporate these experiences into your festive plans for delightful moments filled with laughter and joy.
Admire Holiday Lights and Decorations
Unveil the magic of December by exploring Omaha’s glittering holiday light displays, where every corner is delightfully adorned with twinkling joy. This section highlights how cityscapes transform, with special emphasis on two beloved areas: North Omaha and the Old Market Passageway.
North Omaha Light Displays
Nothing spells festive quite like the bright, colorful lights that envelop North Omaha in a radiant glow. Specific neighborhoods are known to kick the seasonal spirit into high gear. Key spots like North 24th Street, stretching from Burdette Street to Ohio Street, create a vibrant six-block lightscape that fascinates locals and tourists alike. This tradition of lighting up the neighborhood extends into South Omaha, bringing communities together under dazzling displays. Check out more details on festive routes in and around Omaha.
North Omaha’s dedication to maintaining this dazzling festive tradition helps build a warm sense of community. It turns quiet streets into lively spaces—from the scope of views lined by exuberantly decorated houses to the subtle radiance of twinkling fairy lights.
Old Market Passageway Transformation
Photo by Toni Cuenca
Stepping into the Old Market Passageway during December is like walking into a whimsical scene come to life. This historic area is brought alive with enchanting sights catering to every visitor’s festive fantasies. Rows of shops beautifully wrapped in decorations flatter your senses with dazzling views and cheer. Explore more about the Passageway and experience its charm on Old Market.
The air in this iconic village bursts with holiday cheer, setting a melodic backdrop of caroling joy. The cobblestone pathways and brick-accented corners are impeccably adorned with lush greenery and garlands, casting a spell of warmth amid Omaha’s winter chill. Does crafting a memory here sound perfect to you?
This eye-catching transformation makes Omaha’s Old Market Passageway a must-visit luminous spectacle, not only spotlighting the city’s vibrant spirit but also ensuring every trip in December is spectacularly serene.
Conclusion
December in Omaha is a rich tapestry of holiday festivities and traditions that turn the city into a hub of joy and community spirit. There’s no better time to immerse yourself in events that call to your interests, whether it’s the enchanted world of Cirque Musica, the classic charm of “The Nutcracker,” or the vibrant tunes at “Joyful Noise” at Salem Baptist Church. Engaging with such activities adds layers of depth to your holiday experience, supported by the city’s hearty festive cheer.
Embrace the full spectrum of Omaha’s events, from whimsical plays like “Peter Pan” to soulful performances by Sarah Brightman. For those seeking a social moment, enjoy a free couples dance session or attend a Next Steps Brunch for shared celebration — a great way to start the New Year. Also, don’t miss family-friendly highlights like the Sensory Snow Globe or “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical.”
This holiday season, follow the mix of enchantment and entertainment curated by the local beats on NobilityTV for unfolding stories and events. Let Omaha’s December become a cherished part of your holiday memories.
