Enjoy the best family-friendly things to do this November in Omaha!
Bookmark this page as many more events, including exciting Thanksgiving and Holiday activities, will be added as they are announced! Check back throughout November as MANY Holiday events will be added soon!
PLEASE NOTE: Many events require pre-registration, have limited capacity, or offer timed slots. It is highly recommended to verify details, closures, cancelations, hours of operation, and any requirements for guests before visiting. Thank You!
Find 100+ Holiday Events in Omaha for many family-friendly fun this Holiday Season!
[section-divide]BEST THINGS TO DO IN NOVEMBER IN OMAHA[/section-divide]
Visit Santa
20+ Things to Do Over Thanksgiving Weekend in Omaha
On Going Events, Shows and Exhibits:
- Santa Photo Opportunities
- Letters to Santa
- Santa’s Workshop & La Vista Public Library – Nov 25th-Dec 13th
- Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure
- Santa’s Lost Reindeer at the Tree Adventure – Nov 29th – Dec 22nd
- The Durham Museum
- The Lost World of Dragons – Through Dec 31st
- Christmas at Union Station – Nov 29th – Jan 12th
- Forever Young Fall-Winter at Film Streams
- Open Season – Nov 23 & 24
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas – Nov 30th, Dec 1, 7 & 8
- Lauritzen Gardens
- In the Gallery: Santas and Christmas Spirits – Nov 15th – Jan 2nd
- Merry and Bright: Holiday Express – Nov 22nd – Dec 31st
- Bright Nights – Nov 22,23,27,29,30, Dec 1,4-8,11-23,26-31
- Little Tike Hikes
- Nov 2nd – 24th – Botna Bend Park
- Holiday Lights
- Christmas Light Displays
- Holiday Lights Tours with Ollie the Trolley – Nov 29th-Dec 31st
- Zoolightful – Nov 22nd-30th – Tickets Required
- On The Stage:
- A Christmas Carol – Omaha Community Playhouse – Nov 22nd – Dec 22nd
- Peter Pan – Orpheum Theater – Dec 3rd – 8th
- A Christmas Story – The Musical – The Rose Theater – Dec 6th – 22nd
- The Nutcracker – Orpheum Theater – Dec 13th – 15th
- Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration – Holland Performing Arts – Dec 12th – 15th
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical – Orpheum Theater – Dec 18th
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See 20+ Things to Do Over Thanksgiving Weekend in Omaha here!
Through 30th – Tangier Shrine Feztival of Trees – $2/person ages 13 and up (free for kids 12 & under)
- See the trees — and win the trees! Buy raffle tickets for $1 each and deposit your raffle ticket in the bucket for the tree — or trees — you want to win! One winner will be drawn for each tree, so there will be 60 winners! You win the tree, the decorations, and all the prizes that go along with it (each tree valued at a minimum of $500!).
- Location: Tangier Shrine Center – 2823 S. 84 St, Omaha, NE
Nov 25th-Dec 13th – Letters to Santa – FREE
- Have you been good this year? Tell it to the big man himself! Write a letter to Santa this holiday season and send it off to the North Pole! You can ask Santa questions, tell him a story, draw him a picture and, of course, let him know what you want for Christmas. Drop your letters in the special mailbox at Santa’s Workshop or at the Library. Be sure to include your name and return address so Santa knows where to send his reply.
- Location: Santa’s Workshop outdoor mailbox – (8305 Park View Blvd.) and La Vista Public Library (9110 Giles Rd.)
Nov 26th & 27th – Vala’s Thanksgiving Market – Times Vary
- Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard will have a pop-up market in our Exit Barn, the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving! Stop by to browse their gift shop, sample hard ciders, and buy your favorite fall treats! Reserve your favorite foods online for pick-up, or drop in to shop day-of.
- Location: Vala’s Exit Barn – 12102 S. 180th St., Gretna, NE 68028
Nov 26th, 30th – Littles Lab: Let’s Learn About The Seasons – 10:00-10:45am – FREE [REGISTER]
- Join us for engaging weekly activities focused on the seasons. Designed for preschool-age children, our program will incorporate apps, games, toys, and art to explore STEM concepts while fostering early learning skills and brain development
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Nov 26th and More – Meet a Musician Storytime – Times Vary – FREE
- Join Omaha Symphony musician Trevor Petersen as he introduces the fun music the cello can make during this playful reading of The Ugly Duckling. Designed for kids age 3-5, this storytime is fun for friends of all ages with some support by their adults.
- Location:
- Nov 26th – Saddlebrook Branch
- Nov 30th – W. Clarke Swanson Branch
- Dec 5th – Willa Cather Branch
- Dec 12th – Florence Branch
- Dec 13th – South Omaha Library
Nov 26th – Toddler Tuesday: Thanksgiving with Miss Tina! – 10:30-11:30am – FREE
- Let’s learn about thankfulness together! Miss Tina will read a few Thanksgiving-themed stories before guiding little ones through some yoga poses and a cute craft activity. You’ll be thankful you stopped by!
- Location: Fat Brain Toys – 16909 Burke St Suite 131, Omaha, NE
Nov 26th – Tea-Rex Party – 10:30-11:30 – FREE [REGISTER]
- Dear T-Rex and other area dinosaurs, you are cordially invited to a tea party at Omaha Public Library, based on the picture book “Tea Rex” by Molly Idle! Refreshments will be served and tea will be hosted by a Tea-Rex wrangler. Bring your favorite stuffed or plastic dinosaur friends to enjoy the party! This is a free event for children ages 5-9. Tea party snacks, beverages, and dinosaur tails to wear during the program will be provided
- Location: Benson Branch.
Nov 26th and More – Diary of a Wimpy Kid Escape Room – Times Vary – FREE [REGISTER]
- Greg and Rowley are stuck in a room with Rodrick! Can you help them escape? Work together to solve the puzzles and clues based on the best-selling “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” book series by Jeff Kinney before time runs out!
- Location:
- Nov 26th – Charles B. Washington Branch
- Nov 30th – Bess Johnson Elkhorn Branch.
Nov 26th – Novel Pictures: Holes – 1:00-4:00pm – FREE
- Read the book, watch the movie and then join in a lively discussion about both! Meet at Willa Cather Branch to watch the 2003 film “Holes” based on the book “Holes” by Louis Sachar. “Holes” is rated PG. Light refreshments provided by Omaha Public Library.
- Location: Willa Cather Branch
Nov 26th – Dec 17th (Tuesdays) – Christmas Tales with Santa & Mrs. Claus – 5:00pm – Tickets Required
- Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Cabela’s & Bass Pro Shops every Tuesday Nov 5 – Dec 17. Book Tickets in advance
- Location:
- Cabela’s – 12703 Westport Pkwy, La Vista, NE
- Bass Pro Shops – 2901 Bass Pro Dr, Council Bluffs, IA
Nov 26th – Design It! Parachutes – 5:00-6:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Have you ever wondered what a parachute and an open rain jacket have in common? They both trap air and slow you down when you move fast! In this activity, you design a parachute. Tissue paper or a plastic bag and a few strings is all it takes.
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Nov 26th – Thanksgiving Bingo + Craft Night! at Freddy’s – 5:00-8:00pm
- Santa is coming to Freddy’s! Come and meet Santa on December from 1-4 PM and receive a sweet treat.
- Location:
Nov 27th & 29th – Fall Themed Scratch Art Drop-In – 10:00am-3:00pm – FREE
- Stop by and make your very own fall-themed scratch art. This is a drop-in, unsupervised program most appropriate for kids preschool-6th grade.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 27th – Mystery at Baker Street Escape Room – Times Vary – FREE [REGISTER]
- Dr. Watson is missing, and Enola Holmes and her brother Sherlock are counting on you to help unlock the secret to Watson’s disappearance! Can you solve the puzzles and clues based on the best-selling “Enola Holmes” book series by Nancy Springer in time to save Watson?
- Location: W. Clarke Swanson Branch
Nov 27th – Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Parade Event – 6:00pm – FREE
- 17th Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Parade! Parade starts at 6pm with fireworks immediately following provided by Bellino Fireworks and the Salvation Army Kroc Center. Santa and all of his friends will be here, as well as surprise parade guests!
- Location: Shadow Lake Towne Center – 7775 Olson Dr, Papillion, NE 68046
Nov 28th – 8th Annual Omaha Turkey Trot 5K Run & Walk – 8:45am Kids Dash, 9:00am 5K Start – Register
- Start and finish in the Charles Schwab Field. Enjoy LaMar’s Donuts waiting for you at the finish line. Runner’s choice premium fleece hoodie or long-sleeve with registration.
- Location: Charles Schwab Field – 1200 Mike Fahey St, Omaha, NE 68102
Nov 28th – YMCA of Lincoln Turkey Trot – 8:00am – Register
- The YMCA of Lincoln Turkey Trot presented by Union Bank & Trust returns for its 15th year as one of the highly favored traditions on Thanksgiving morning. This year, they are moving the race to the streets of downtown Lincoln!
- Location: The Railyard Lincoln – 350 Canopy St, Lincoln, NE
Nov 28th – Feast & Feathers Race – 8:00am – Register
- Half Marathon – 8 a.m.
- 10K and 5K – 8:10 a.m.
- Little Gobbler Trot Kids Race – 10:30 a.m.
- Location: Lake Cunningham Entrance #1 (Marina) – 8965 State St, Omaha, NE 68122
Nov 29th – Jan 5th – Winterland at Heartwood Preserve – Times Vary – FREE [REGISTER]
- Bundle up and bring your loved ones out to Heartwood Preserve this season to experience the joy of gliding on ice in the heart of West Omaha. Join for hot cocoa, seasonal treats from local vendors, and exciting themed skating nights—including visits from Santa himself! FREE admission and ice skate rentals courtesy of Applied Underwriters.
- Location: The Ice Rink at Heartwood Park – 301 N. 145th St.
Nov 29th – Black Friday Hike at Platte River State Park – 10:00-11:30am – FREE with Park Entry fee
- Instead of shopping on Black Friday, spend the day after Thanksgiving outdoors on a free, guided hike at Platte River State Park. Meet at the Waterfall Trailhead parking lot at 10 a.m. Nov. 29. A naturalist will lead the 2-mile hike, stopping to share some of his favorite fascinating finds along the way. The hike will last approximately 60 to 90 minutes and follow the Waterfall Trail, which is considered moderately challenging. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. To access the parking lot, visitors should turn left after they enter the park, then turn into the first parking lot on the right.
- Location: Platte River State Park
Nov 29th – Christmas at Union Station: Tree Lighting Ceremony – 4:00-8:00pm – Tickets Required
- Enjoy loads of entertainment, including live music from Camille Metoyer Moten and a performance by Bellevue Little Theater. Cookie decorating, scavenger hunt and holiday crafts, plus Santa himself, will make for a fun evening! All the good tidings and cheer lead up to the signature tradition of the night: the countdown to lighting Omaha’s official Christmas tree, followed by a sing-a-long!
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE
Nov 29th – Village Pointe Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration Presented by Woodhouse – 6:00-8:00pm – FREE
- Join Village Pointe for the annual tree lighting to kick off the holiday season! Free carriage rides will be offered immediately following the lighting ceremony until 9 PM. Holiday characters will be available for pictures after the tree lighting. Santa will be inside Marcus Village Pointe Cinema lobby after the event.
- Peppermint Elves Performance – 6:00 PM
- Santa Parade – 7:00 PM | Davenport Street – Santa will arrive by carriage led by the Arlington High School marching band along with favorite storybook and holiday characters.
- Location: Village Pointe – 17305 Davenport St, Omaha, NE 68118
Nov 29th – Lights of Aksarben Tree Lighting Ceremony – 6:00-8:00pm – FREE
- Experience the holiday magic as they transform Aksarben Village into a Whoville-inspired winter wonderland! Lights of Aksarben kicks off Friday, November 29, with the illumination of the Stinson Park tower as Omaha’s largest lit tree. Bundle up and join for a visit from Santa, cookies and hot cocoa, face painting, live music by Cindy Lou and the Who Who Done Its, and an appearance from Mr. Grinch, too! Come encounter the music and merriment in Aksarben Village… where there is always something fun going on!
- Location: Stinson Park – 2232 S. 64th St., Omaha, NE
Nov 29th – Dec 24th – Visit Santa at Regency
- Enjoy visits and photos with Santa located in center court outside of Borsheims sponsored by Children’s Nebraska! Photo packages are available through Mary Kay Photography. Cameras are allowed with a minimum purchase.
- Hours and Break Times:
- Friday, November 29th: 10pm–4pm
- Monday – Friday: 2 pm–8 pm
- Saturday: 12 pm–8 pm
- Sunday: 12 pm–5 pm
- Saturday, December 23rd 12 pm–4pm
- Location: 120 Regency Pkwy, Omaha, NE 68114
Nov 29-30, Dec 6-8,13,14,27-29 – Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience – 7:30pm – Tickets Required
- Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience is a unique concert experience that puts YOU in control. Performed by brothers Billy, Matthew and Ryan McGuigan and their band, the show relies on you to choose the entire setlist. Before the show starts, you are asked to fill out a request card with your name, favorite Beatles song, and the reason why you chose that song. Minutes before the show starts, these cards are collected and a custom setlist is created based on these requests. Throughout the night, the band weaves your personal stories, and the McGuigans’ own heartfelt memories attached to the Beatles’ music, into the performance, creating a one-of-a-kind narrative that makes every show different. Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience is an engaging, interactive celebration where your memories, the McGuigan brothers’ passion, and the timeless songs of the Beatles come together in an unforgettable way.
- Location: The Slowdown – 729 N 14th Street, Omaha, NE
Nov 30th & Dec 1st – Monster Jam – Tickets Required
- Location: CHI Health Center – 455 N 10th St, Omaha, NE 68102
Nov 30th – Home Depot Kids Workshop: Cocoa Ornament – 9:00am-12:00pm – FREE
- First Saturday of each month between 9 am – 12 pm for free in-person Kids Workshops.
- Location: Home Depot Stores
Nov 30th – Holiday Craft Fair – 9:00am-3:00pm – FREE
- Get handmade gifts and goodies, grab a snack or lunch at the concession stand and support our youth!
- Location: River of Life Omaha – 5151 NW Radial Hwy, Omaha, NE 68104
Nov 30th – Millard South Fall Craft Fair – 9:00am-3:00pm – $3 admission
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Millard South Fall Craft Fair.
- Location: Millard South High School – 14905 Q St, Omaha, NE 68137
Nov 30th – Christmas Walk in Fremont – 9:00am – 7:00pm
- Small Business Saturday for the festive and unforgettable Christmas Walk in the heart of Downtown Fremont. Dive into the holiday spirit as you explore exclusive deals from our beloved local businesses and be enchanted by the shimmering lights and seasonal decor that adorn our streets.
- Carriage Rides, Santa Photos Ops, Tree Lighting Ceremony, Petting Zoo, Treats & Activities.
- Location: Main Streets Fremont
Nov 30th – The Nutcracker with American Midwest Ballet – 10:00-11:00am – FREE
- Join for this 1 hour program with dancers from American Midwest Ballet. Hear the story, see a performance, learn a dance, and have time for Q&A. This program is most appropriate for families with kids in preschool-6th grade.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 30th & Dec 1st – Handmade Omaha Holiday Art & Craft Show – 10:00am-4:00pm (30th), Noon-4:00 (1st) – FREE
- Handmade Omaha hosts two markets a year featuring local makers from the Omaha area. Shop local! Free parking and free admission.
- Location: Bancroft Street Market – 2702 S 10th St, Omaha, NE
Nov 30th – SHOP OMAHA Holiday Market – 11:00am-5:00pm
- Celebrate the spirit of community and the joy of the holiday season at our vibrant local market event! Featuring over 70 small businesses from our community, this event is your perfect opportunity to discover unique gifts, delicious local food, and enjoy a variety of holiday activities for all ages. Dive into the festive spirit with family-friendly activities such as seasonal crafts, live entertainment, and even a visit from Santa Claus himself! It’s a day filled with joy and laughter for everyone.
- Location: Oak View Mall – 3030 Oak View Dr, Omaha, NE 68144
Nov 30th & More – Kid Coders: Simple Circuits – Noon-1:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Kid Coders is an engaging introduction to the world of coding and computer science class designed specifically for children. Through interactive and hands-on activities, young learners explore the fundamentals of programming languages and computational thinking.
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Nov 30th – Visit Santa at Rockbrook Village – 12:00-3:00pm – FREE
- Celebrate a family tradition Saturday, Nov. 30th from 12-3pm. Bring the little ones to visit Santa and share their holiday wishes, then the whole family can enjoy a complimentary horse and carriage ride around the village. Kids – stop by Doodle Art Studio and Great Harvest Bread Co. for a free cookie and hot cocoa. And don’t miss out on the amazing Christmas lights around the village come dusk. It is our way of saying thank you for supporting local on Small Business Saturday! Come join the fun!
- Location: Rockbrook Village – 2800 S. 110th Ct., Omaha, NE.
Nov 30th – Winter Wonderland 2024: Downtown Papillion – 4:00-8:00pm
- Santa Parade, Free Carriage Rides, Holiday Market, Hayrack Rides, Hot Chocolate, Candy Canes, Pictures with Santa, Lighting Ceremony at 6:00, Live Music
- Story Times: 4:30, 5:30, & 6:30pm inside of Sump Memorial Library
- Location: Downtown Papillion, NE
Nov 30th – Twilight Trekking (Ages 16+) – 4:30-6:30pm – Registration Required
- Are you an adventurous night owl looking to explore new trails? Join in this unique opportunity to see the Forest at night! Don’t miss your chance to learn about the nocturnal creatures who call the Forest home while exploring new trails. This hike is geared toward intermediate to experienced hikers (ages 16+) and will traverse at least two miles of moderate to difficult terrain, so please come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.
- Cost: $10 for Members, $18 for Non-Members
- Location: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center – 1111 Bellevue Blvd North, Bellevue, NE
Nov 30th-Jan 1st – Holiday Lights Festival
- Nov 30th (6 p.m.): Lighting Ceremony – Kick-off the holiday season and see Downtown Omaha light up with festive lights!
- Dec 8th (11a.m.-4p.m.): KETV Family Festival – Enjoy a festive day full of family-friendly activities at your favorite Downtown Omaha attractions! PLUS! Ollie the Trolley will be providing FREE transportation!
- Dec 31st (7 p.m.): New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular – For the last signature event of the Holiday Lights Festival, enjoy the spectacular firework show in the warmth and safety of your vehicle!
Nov 30th, Dec 3rd, 7th, 10th, 14th, 17th, 21st – Holiday Concert Series at The Durham – 10:00am-3:00pm (Saturdays), 5:00-8:00pm (Tuesdays) – Included with Admission [REGISTER]
- Enjoy some of the area’s most beautiful holiday music under the glow of Omaha’s official Christmas tree. Talented local entertainers perform as part of the holiday concert series.
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE
Nov 30th – Holiday Glow Skate & Santa at Baxter Arena – 6:00-8:00pm – $15/ticket
- Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus. Mike & Cookies, Hot Cocoa, Raffle Items to start your gift giving, holiday music and ice skating.
- Location: Baxter Arena – 2425 S 67th St, Omaha, NE
Nov 30th & Dec 1st – Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 in Concert – 7:30pm (30th), 2:00pm (1st) – $50-99
- It’s time to go hunting for Horcruxes once more: part one of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows™ in Concert is nearly here! A live symphony orchestra performs Alexandre Desplat’s epic score as the franchise’s seventh film is projected onto a giant screen. Join all your favorite characters — and not-so-favorite ones — as they encounter familiar dangers, new threats and powerful friendships in this once-in-a-lifetime event.
- Location: Holland Performing Arts Center
Nov 30th, Dec 1,28,29 and more – Up Close & Magical Show with The Old Market Magician at Mahoney – 7:30-8:30pm – $8-$10/Tickets
- Enjoy family-friendly Omaha magician Ryan Chandler as he performs at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park! With the camera acting as a giant magnifying glass on stage, be sure not to blink as magic & audience members are projected on a large screen. Chandler, who has appeared on television with magicians Penn and Teller, will perform at the Kountze Memorial Theater.
- Location: Kountze Memorial Theater at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
Dec 1st – Omaha Holiday Princess Ball – 10:00am-3:30pm – $20-$30
- Get ready for a day of magical fun for the whole family, brought to you by Dream Parties! You’ll get an amazing opportunity to meet and greet your favorite characters! Dream Parties is bringing to you a one of a kind event with all new stage performances, dancing, picture opportunities and more for some magical entertainment ! Your little one will get to participate in princess games, story time sing along, learn some ballroom dance moves and more. Our event is geared towards your 3 – 7 year old princess fan, though all are welcome!
- Location: Courtyard Omaha Bellevue at Beardmore Event Center – 3730 Raynor Parkway Bellevue, NE 68123
Dec 1st – Christmas Tea & Storytime with Father Christmas – Noon – 2:00pm – $25/pp
- A special holiday tea party hosted by none other than Father Christmas. He will be reading a Christmas story and taking photos for the family. They’ll be serving 3 kinds of holiday tea blends as well as scones, sandwiches, egg quiches, and desserts.
- Location: The Fireside – 841 Tara Plaza, Papillion, NE 68046
Dec 1st – Santa’s Sleigh Ride & Tree Lighting – 1:00-6:30pm – FREE
- Santa Claus is coming to town! Santa and his entourage will arrive in La Vista and travel through the City before stopping in Central Park to light the tree, lead a singalong and take a group selfie with the community.
- Location: Across City streets/Central Park & Santa’s Workshop (8305 Park View Blvd.)
Dec 1st – Ralston’s Holiday Magic – 1:00-7:00pm – FREE
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Join Mayor Groesser as we light up downtown and get into the holiday spirit! Bring your family out to enjoy a Ralston tradition! Visit Santa and enjoy FREE carriage rides, children’s activities, hot chocolate, and cookies.
- 3:15 – 4:00 Santa Claus cruises on a fire truck throughout Ralston
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4:00 Holiday Magic Lighting Ceremony by Mayor Don Groesser
- Location: Independence Square – 77th St. & Main St., Ralston, NE
Dec 1st – Sarah Brightman A Christmas Symphony – 7:00pm – $59+
- Accompanied by orchestra, choir and special guests, this magical holiday show will feature Sarah performing many of her holiday classics and greatest hits. ‘A Christmas Symphony’ is an unforgettable Christmas spectacle during the most wonderful time of the year.
- Location: Orpheum Theater
Dec 3rd – Grab & Go Holiday Card Making Kit (Ages 17 and under) – All Day – FREE
- If this holiday season leaves you feeling crafty and glittery, stop by the Library and grab a Holiday Card Making Kit. Each kit will have enough supplies to make two holiday themed cards. Kits will be available while supplies last. Ages 17 and under. One kit per child.
- Location: La Vista Public Library
Dec 3rd, 10th, 17th – Gingerbread Cookie Decorating with Santa – 10:00am-Noon – FREE
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Join us in Santa’s Workshop to decorate gingerbread cookies with Santa and Mrs. Claus!With a variety of holiday characters, cookies to decorate, and Mr. & Mrs. Claus this is an event you won’t want to miss. While this is a free event to attend, we ask for the donation of one non-perishable food item per person participating in cookie decoration. The items will be donated locally.
- Location: Shadow Lake Towne Center – 10422 S 72nd St, Papillion, NE 68046
Dec 3rd – Elkhorn Tree Lighting Party – 4:00 – 5:30pm – FREE
- COME ONE, COME ALL and join for an old-fashioned Christmas extravaganza and kick off the holiday season with a bang at the 23rd Annual Elkhorn Tree Lighting Party! The evening will feature Santa and his elves, live Christmas music, hot dogs, chili, cookies, s’mores and hot cocoa ALL FOR FREE! The party will run from 4:00-5:30pm on Main St. in Olde Towne Elkhorn, with the lighting of the Elkhorn Christmas Tree at 5:00pm. Spread the word and join us for a wonderful celebration! THIS EVENT IS FOR EVERYONE!
- Location: Main St. in Olde Towne Elkhorn
Dec 3rd, 10th, 17th – Family Nights with Santa at The Durham – 5:00-8:00pm – Included with Admission [REGISTER]
- Ho Ho Ho! During the busy holiday season, The Durham Museum makes it easy for families to create special memories with Santa. Tuesday Nights with Santa are filled with family-fun activities, and of course, an appearance from Jolly Saint Nick himself! Close the night out at 7:50PM with an indoor winter wonderland “snowfall”
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE
Dec 3rd – Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland – 7:30pm
- Step into a world of enchantment this holiday season with the all-new Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland, the perfect fusion of circus artistry and beloved holiday melodies. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the magical holiday extravaganza filled with music, marvels and merriment will ignite the festive spirit in all who attend.
- Location: Holland Performing Arts Center – 1200 Douglas Street Omaha, NE 68102
Dec 4th, 11th, 18th – Fireside Holiday Concert Series & Santa Visit – 6:30-8:00pm – FREE
- Concert is in Papillion Landing Lobby
- Santa Visit in Papillion Landing Chrysalis Suite 3
- Location: Papillion Landing – 1046 W Lincoln St, Papillion, NE 68046
Dec 4th – Home Free Any Kind of Christmas – 7:30pm
- Home Free, all-vocal country entertainers, have made a mark on the music scene, amassing 700+ million views on YouTube and 20 Billboard Top 10 Hits. This 2024 they embark on their Crazy(er) Life Tour, celebrating 10 years since the release of their breakout album, Crazy Life. With praise from Billboard, Rolling Stone, and American Songwriter, don’t miss a night of the group’s upbeat, Nashville-dipped pop hits, country and western standards, incredible harmony, and quick witted humor.
- Location: Holland Performing Arts Center – 1200 Douglas Street Omaha, NE 68102
Dec 5th – 19th – Holiday Stroll in Little Bohemia – 4:00-8:00pm – FREE
- Tis’ the season to shop, drink, and eat locally. The Little Bohemia Stroll will begin on Thursday, Dec 5, and continue each Thursday evening through Dec. 19.
- Location: Little Bohemia Omaha – 501 N 13th St, Omaha, NE 68102
Dec 5th – Gingerbread Contest – 4:30-7:45pm – FREE
- Join for the revival of the beloved Lights on Dundee Gingerbread Contest! After many requests, they are excited to bring this festive event back to the Dundee Neighborhood during our annual Lights on Dundee celebration.
- Location:
Dec 5th – Lights on Dundee – 5:00-9:00pm – FREE
- Join the Dundee Merchants for a festive evening at Lights on Dundee on Thursday, December 5th, from 5-8PM in the vibrant heart of Dundee at 50th and Underwood. Experience the joy of the season with delightful photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus in front of the enchanting Dundee mural.
- Location:
Dec 5th – Machine Embroidery Class (Ages 14+) – 6:30-8:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Come by the Makerspace and learn how to embroider your name on fabric! Choose from a selection of fonts and colors, and build your skills with our embroidery machine.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Dec 6th, 10th, 13th, 14th – Visit Santa at his Workshop in La Vista Central Park Winter Wonderland – Times Vary – FREE
- Dec 6th,10th,13th (4:00-7:00pm), Dec 14th (9:00am-12:00pm) (Pet Friendly Date)
- Location: Central Park/Santa’s Workshop – 8305 Park View Blvd, La Vista, NE
Dec 6th – Holiday Cultural Festival at The Durham – 4:00-9:00pm – Included with Admission [REGISTER]
- Holiday greetings from around the world! Learn how the world celebrates this joyful time of year during the Holiday Cultural Festival. More than 40 local cultural organizations proudly display their crafts and traditional dress, while musicians and dancers perform throughout the evening. Delicious food and unique gifts from around the globe will be available for purchase.
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE
Dec 6th & 7th – Main Street Studios & Art Gallery Holiday Open House – Times Vary
- December 6th and 7th at Main Street Studios. We will have live music fun, new artists, food and drinks. We will also be donating to the toys for tots foundation.
- Location – 2610 N Main St, Elkhorn, NE
Dec 6th-8th – A Country Christmas – Times Vary – $0-$50
- Celebrate the holiday season at Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard! Join us for a festive day filled with fun activities for the whole family. Get into the holiday spirit with our Christmas-themed decorations, delicious food, and live music. Take a stroll through our winter wonderland and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Kids can visit with Santa Claus and participate in fun games and crafts. Don’t miss out on this magical event that will surely put you in the holiday mood!
- Breakfast with Mr. & Mrs Claus Dec 7th 8am-11am
- Location: Ditmars
Dec 6th – Kickoff to Christmas – 5:00-7:00pm
- Celebrate the holiday season at our Kickoff to Christmas event! Enjoy a magical tree lighting ceremony, unique shopping from local brands at Apple House Market, and a delicious pre-fixe dinner with drink specials at Timbers. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with joy and festive spirit!
- Event starts at 5pm. Trolley will depart from Lied Lodge shortly after 5 p.m. with a ceremonial tree lighting at Arbor Lodge Mansion followed by shopping at Apple House Market, and back to Timbers for a pre-fixe dinner.
- Location: Arbor Day Farm – 2700 Sylvan Rd, Nebraska City, NE 68410
Dec 6th – Lights of Aksarben: Cocoa with a Cop – 6:00-8:00pm – FREE
- Join at Stinson Park for Lights of Aksarben’s Cocoa with a Cop! Enjoy yummy holiday cookies and hot cocoa while visiting with Omaha’s finest men and women in blue. While there, experience all the festivities Aksarben’s Whoville has to offer: holiday lights, a visit from Santa, face painting, live music by Cindy Lou and the Who Who Done Its, and an appearance from Mr. Grinch, too! Aksarben Village…where there is always something fun going on!
- Location: Stinson Park – 2232 S 67th St
Dec 6th – Jingle Jam III – 7:00pm – $49+
- T.I. | 2 Chainz | Paul Wall | Petey Pablo | Do or Die | DJ Unk
- Location: Baxter Arena – 2425 S 67th St, Omaha, NE 68182
Dec 7th – Home Depot Kids Workshop: Holiday Snow Globe – 9:00am-12:00pm – FREE
- First Saturday of each month between 9 am – 12 pm for free in-person Kids Workshops.
- Location: Home Depot Stores
Dec 7th – Holiday Craft Fair at BSMS – 9:00am-3:00pm – $3/pp
- 3rd annual Bennington holiday craft & vendor fair at Bennington South Middle School hosted by the Bennington Dance Team! Over 100+ vendors, food trucks and so much more! $3 admission!
- Location: Bennington South Middle School – 9809 N 171st St, Bennington, NE 68007
Dec 7th & 8th – Holiday Market – 10:00am-5:00pm – FREE
- Santa will be at the market on Sunday from 11:00am – 3:00pm! Make sure to get your photo!
- Location: Aksarben Village
Dec 7th & 8th – Hot Shops Open House – FREE
- The Hot Shops artists invite you to our annual Winter Open House. Meet our current artists, learn more about their tools and processes, see demonstrations and purchase their latest works!
- Location: Hot Shops Art Center – 1302 Izard St, Omaha, NE 68102
Dec 7th – Out & About Storytime: The Joslyn – 11:00-11:30am – FREE
- Join OPL at The Joslyn for storytime, featuring stories, creative movement, music and exploration of a piece of art. Storytime is geared toward preschoolers, but all ages are welcome. This Storytime is part of The Joslyn’s monthly Art-tastic Saturdays.
- Location: The Joslyn – 2200 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102
Dec 7th & 14th – Christmas Ornament Making for Kids – 11:00am-4:00pm – Included in Admission
- Celebrate the season by making a nature ornament at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure. Join us anytime from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 7 and 14. It’s the perfect activity to pair with the Santa’s Lost Reindeer scavenger hunt.
- Location: Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure – 2611 Arbor Ave, Nebraska City, NE 68410
Dec 7th – Winter Wonderland Craft and Vendor Market – Noon – 4:00pm – FREE
- A festive afternoon at the Winter Wonderland Craft and Vendor Market! Explore an array of handcrafted goods, unique gifts, and artisanal treats in a festive outdoor setting. This family-friendly event promises goodies for everyone, with local food and drink vendors there to make sure no one leaves empty-handed.
- Location: The Nines Plaza at The Link
Dec 7th – Santa Goes to Space at Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum– Noon-4:00pm – Included with admission
- Warm up with hot cocoa and cookies during story time, meet your favorite Star Wars characters, send a letter to the North Pole, browse the maker’s market for holiday gifts and get in the spirit with songs from the Salvation Army band and carolers during this all-day event. Plus, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus!
- Location: Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum – 28210 W. Park Hwy., Ashland, NE
Dec 7th – UnionMade: An Artists Market – Noon-5:00pm – FREE
- The UnionMade Artist Market showcases the handmade artwork of Union Co-Op Studios Passholders, Teaching Artists, and Fellows.
- Location: The Union for Contemporary Art – 2423 North 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110
Dec 7th – Ponca Hills Kids Christmas Party – 1:00-3:00pm – FREE
- Crafts, carols and cookies. Santa will also, be making an appearance for visits and photo opportunities. FREE to the Public.
- Location: Ponca Hills Volunteer Fire Department – 12919 Ponca Rd, Omaha, NE 68112
Dec 7th – Nine Years of Innovation: Do Space Open House – 4:00-7:00pm – FREE
- Join us for “Nine Years of Innovation: Do Space Open House” to celebrate nearly a decade of creativity, technology, and community impact! Explore our exciting spaces, discover our programs, and connect with fellow innovators. Enjoy hands-on activities, inspiring demonstrations, light food and refreshments.
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Dec 7th – Peace, Love & Rock-n-Roll: A Holiday Celebration – 7:05pm
- Get ready to rock-n-roll into your holiday season by joining the River City Mixed Chorus at the Holland Performing Arts Center for their much-anticipated annual December show! This first major performance in RCMC’s 41st Season, Peace, Love & Rock-n-Roll, is packed with joy-filled, four-part harmonies sung by more than 150 singers dedicated to creating music that makes a difference all year long.
- Location: Holland Performing Arts Center – 1200 Douglas Street Omaha, NE 68102
Dec 8th – Christmas in Germany
- Immerse yourself in the enchantment of Christmas in Germany with an unparalleled experience right here in Omaha. Our authentic German Christmas Market promises a festive atmosphere brimming with delightful food, enticing drinks, and captivating entertainment. This family-friendly event is not just about shopping; it’s a celebration! Bring your children to enjoy special entertainment, including a visit from none other than St. Niklaus himself.
- Location: German American Society – 3717 S 120th St, Omaha, NE
Dec 8th – Winter Season Celebration – 1:00-4:00pm – Included in Admission
- Don’t let the cold keep you indoors—Fontenelle Forest’s Winter Season Celebration is the perfect way to embrace the magic of winter in nature. From frosty walks to chilly outdoor adventures in Acorn Acres, we’re encouraging the community to bundle up get outdoors this winter! Experience the beauty of the Forest transformed by the changing seasons + enjoy a variety of festivities for all ages. Coffee & Hot Cocoa, Nature Crafts and habitat building, Visit Santa, Cozy Caroling around a campfire, and Raptor Encounters.
- Location: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center
Dec 9th – Family Gift Making – 6:00pm – FREE
- Families can create Gifts in a Jar. Participants will place dry ingredients in a jar and attach instructions to the gift tag for adding wet ingredients and baking/cooking the final product. Each family can make one gift for FREE. Additional jars can be made for $5 each. Bring your cameras for this event and take pictures with Mrs. Claus as she passes out her favorite cookies. All ages are welcome.
- Location: La Vista Public Library
Dec 11th – Christmas Movie Watch Party (Ages 10-18) – 6:00pm – FREE
- Destress before finals week by coming to watch a Christmas movie at the Library. The movie party will feature special activities for you to do as you watch. Make an elf hat, try some maple syrup spaghetti cookies, have an intermission snowball fight and more! Based on these activities, can you guess what they’ll be watching? Ages 10-18 are welcome.
- Location: La Vista Public Library
Dec 12th – Paper Crafting Drop-In – 6:30-8:00pm – FREE
- Stop by the Makerspace to make & take a paper crafting project.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Dec 13-15th – Santa’s Tinker Workshop Family Fun Weekend – 9:00am – 4:00pm – Museum Admission
- Santa’s elves need your help! It’s close to Christmas, and there are so many toys still to make. Come join Santa’s gang and explore all the tinkering that comes with making toys. Don’t forget to take a cookie decorating break, and read a story with Mrs. Claus. Santa will be here too for your own holiday requests.
- Location: Omaha Children’s Museum – 500 S. 20th St., Omaha, NE.
Dec 13th – Full Moon Hike: Cold Moon – 5:30-7:30pm – Registration Required
- Hikes will begin no later than 30 minutes after the event start time, so be sure to arrive on time. All hikes will include an educational discussion of the nocturnal animals around the Forest and a brief talk into the lore of full moons. The event will include a bonfire and s’mores.
- Cost: $15 for Members, $25 for Non-Members
- Location: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center – 1111 Bellevue Blvd North, Bellevue, NE
Dec 13th – Lights of Aksarben Final Night – 6:00-8:00pm – FREE
- Don’t miss out on the fun this holiday season in Aksarben Village! Lights of Aksarben has transformed Stinson Park into a Whoville celebration. Come enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday with Omaha’s most giant illuminated tree, cookies and cocoa, a visit from Santa, face painting, live music by Cindy Lou and the Who Who Done Its, and an appearance from Mr. Grinch! December 13 is the final night of our holiday festivities this year.
- Location: Stinson Park – 2232 S 67th St
Dec 14th & 15th – Winter Wonderland Vendor & Craft Show – Times TBD – FREE
- The Winter Wonderland Vendor & Craft Show has found its new home at Shadow Lake Towne Center this year. We are excited to celebrate the season with such an awesome event!
- Location: Shadow Lake Amphitheater – 7775 Olson Dr, Papillion, NE 68046
Dec 14th & 15th – Midwest Fest Holiday Market – 11:00am-5:00pm – FREE
- Discover 40 exceptional artisans and makers from across the Midwest, each with unique handcrafted goods that tell a story. Enjoy the thrill of ice skating at the festively decorated skate ribbon. Meet Santa Claus & his reindeer for a magical photo opportunity & holiday fun.
- Location: Heartland of America Park – 800 Douglas St, Omaha, NE 68102
Dec 14th – Celebrate at The Platform: Las Posadas – 10:00am-Noon – FREE
- Join at The Platform, the museum’s interactive play space, and celebrate the holidays with us! Each date will have a special craft or activity and feature related photos from our Photo Archive for a bit of a history lesson while you celebrate.
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE
Dec 14th – Preschool Playtime & Holiday Kiddie Craft – 2:30-4:00pm – FREE
- All the fun of Preschool Playtime plus a fun holiday craft activity
- Location: La Vista Community Center Gymnasium – 8116 Park View Blvd, La Vista, NE 68128
Dec 14th – Lights Walk 5k & 10k Routes – 4:00-6:00pm – FREE
- Annual Lights Walk is being sponsored by The RiverFront, so everyone walks for free! We’ll have maps and directions, plus if the weather cooperates, the routes will be marked, but we do plan to set out as a group (or groups) at 4:30 p.m. In the holiday spirit, they’re collecting hats, gloves, mittens and socks for local homeless shelters. At the end of your walk, they’ll have complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, as well as a plethora of door prizes to take home.
- Location: KANEKO – 1111 Jones St, Omaha, NE
Dec 14th – Twilight Trekking (Ages 16+) – 4:30-6:30pm – Registration Required
- Are you an adventurous night owl looking to explore new trails? Join in this unique opportunity to see the Forest at night! Don’t miss your chance to learn about the nocturnal creatures who call the Forest home while exploring new trails. This hike is geared toward intermediate to experienced hikers (ages 16+) and will traverse at least two miles of moderate to difficult terrain, so please come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.
- Cost: $10 for Members, $18 for Non-Members
- Location: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center – 1111 Bellevue Blvd North, Bellevue, NE
Dec 15th – Cookies and Cocoa – 10:00am-4:00pm – $10-$35
- Join Princesses and Christmas Characters for a Countdown to Christmas Celebration with Cookies and Cocoa!
- Location: Hilton Garden Inn Omaha West – 17879 Chicago Street Omaha, NE 68118
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Dec 17th – Cookies and Carols; An Evening with Santa – 5:30-7:00pm – FREE
- In the Papillion Landing Chrysalis Suites
- Location: Papillion Landing – 1046 W Lincoln St, Papillion, NE 68046
Dec 18th – Tot-Time and Child Watch – 9:30am & 10:15am – [REGISTER]
- Tot-Time at 9:30 in Papillion Landing Field House, Child Watch at 10:15 at Papillion Landing
- Location: Papillion Landing – 1046 W Lincoln St, Papillion, NE 68046
Dec 20th – Christmas Party at The Bubbly Tart – 4:00-7:00
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Join for their first Christmas party! They will have a few local vendors with some last minute gifts, a dyo cookie station for kids to decorate and take home a cookie, dessert samples, board games to play, and a drawing for a holiday grazing box to be picked up on the 23rd. They will also have some kid friendly and adult hot chocolate available for purchase, along with all of their other desserts!
- Location: The Bubbly Tart – 3020 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE
Dec 20th – Polar Express & Santa – 5:00-7:00pm – [REGISTER]
- The Polar express and a visit from Santa
- Location: Papillion Landing – 1046 W Lincoln St, Papillion, NE 68046
Dec 20th – Holiday Bingo Family & Friends Fun Night – 6:30-7:30pm – FREE
- Take a break during the busy holiday season to enjoy some family time and simple fun playing bingo. Join us at the Community Center and see who shouts BINGO first! If you’re lucky, you might even take home a prize. The grand prize is a holiday ham! All ages are welcome.
- Location: La Vista Community Center
Dec 21st – Princess Tea Party – 10:00am – FREE [REGISTER]
- A festive tea party and meet a magical princess with ice-powers. Don’t forget to dress up for this royal occasion. Cocoa, tea and cookies will be served. There’s snow-way you can miss this! Registration required. Space is limited. Ages 8 and under are welcome.
- Location: La Vista Public Library
Dec 21st – Library Music & Movement and Santa Visit – 11:00am – FREE
- Library music and movement and a Santa visit in the Papillion Landing Community Gym
- Location: Papillion Landing – 1046 W Lincoln St, Papillion, NE 68046
Dec 31st – Noon Year’s Eve Celebration at The Durham – 10:00am-2:00pm – Included with Admission [REGISTER]
- Tickets go on sale Monday Dec 2nd. Children of all ages will enjoy this fun-packed bash with live music from Dino O’Dell and the T-Rex All-Stars, special crafts and activities. Ring in the noon year in your handmade party hat while enjoying the celebratory bubble wrap stomp and a spectacular balloon drop at noon in the Suzanne and Walter Scott Great Hall.
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE
Dec 31st – Kid’s NYE Sticker, Stamp and Stencil Party – 10:30am – FREE [REGISTER]
- Help ring in the new year with stickers, stamps and stencils. Complete various activities using these tools. Ink stamp pads will be used during this program, so please dress accordingly. Parental participation appreciated. All ages are welcome.
- Location: La Vista Public Library
Jan 4th – Home Depot Kids Workshop: Piggy Bank – 9:00am-12:00pm – FREE
- First Saturday of each month between 9 am – 12 pm for free in-person Kids Workshops.
- Location: Home Depot Stores
Jan 17th – Family Bingo Night at La Vista Community Center – 6:30-7:30pm – FREE
- All ages and free!
- Location: La Vista Community Center – 8116 Park View Blvd, La Vista, NE
Discover the Best Donut
Visit a variety of local donut shops this season!
Go on a Family Getaway
Choose from a variety of locations that are not too far from Omaha. Explore a new destination, go on an adventure, and create new memories!
Day Trips, Road Trips, Cabins to Rent, and more!
Check out a Public Library Pass
Members of certain libraries can check out a pass to visit one of the following locations:
Durham Museum – Members of all 12 Omaha Public Library branches, Bellevue Public Library, Bennington Public Library, Council Bluffs Public Library, and Fremont Public Library.
Fontenelle Forest – Members of the Omaha Public Library, Bellevue Public Library, or Council Bluffs Public Library.
Lauritzen Gardens – Members of the Omaha Public Library, Bellevue Public Library, or Council Bluffs Public Library.
Explore a Favorite Hiking or Walking Trail
Venture on a hiking or walking trail in the Omaha area with kids!
Some of our favorites include the Waterfall Trail at Platte River State Park and the scenic trails at Hitchcock Nature Center.
10 Perfect Day Trips from Omaha
Looking for a great Day Trip near Omaha? Check out these fun ideas for nearby adventures!
15 Exciting Road Trips from Omaha
Looking for a little getaway with your family? Choose from a variety of Road Trip ideas that are not too far from Omaha. Explore a new destination, go on an adventure, and create new memories with your family!
[section-divide]FIND MORE HELPFUL RESOURCES:[/section-divide]
We do our best to share current information in Family Fun in Omaha, but event details may change. It is always a good idea to verify the information before visiting.
Have a wonderful fun-filled November!
Keep updated on the latest Omaha fun and Sign up for our Free Email Newsletter!
[section-divide]BEST THINGS TO DO IN NOVEMBER IN OMAHA – Past Events[/section-divide]
Nov 11th – Veteran’s Day Ceremony at The Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum – 11:00am-2:00pm – Museum Admission (FREE for military members)
Come together as a community with special songs from our featured military band and inspiring stories from several speakers, including representatives from the Wounded Warrior Project and advocates for veteran mental health and suicide awareness. All military members will receive free entrance as well as $15 off new memberships – we hope to see you there.
Location: SAC Museum – 28210 W. Park Hwy., Ashland, NE
Nov 18th – Annual Chili Crawl – 11:00am-3:00pm
Sample a variety of tasty chili recipes at your favorite Midtown Crossing restaurants! Visit as many restaurants as possible, in any order you’d like, and cast your vote for the best chili in midtown! Chili samplers & suggested drink pairings (prices vary) at each location.
Location: Midtown Crossing – 3110 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68131
Nov 20th – Design Studio: Donut Scented Soap – 4:00-5:00pm – FREE [REGISTER] (Age 9-12)
Two chances to get crafty and show off your art skills in this monthly program for 9-12 year olds. New project each month! This month: Donut Scented Soap on Nov 18 or Nov 20. Registration is required!
Location: Art Room at Papillion Landing – 1046 W Lincoln St, Papillion, NE 68046
Dec 2nd,9th,16th,23rd – Complimentary Horse and Carriage Rides at Village Pointe – 11:00am-3:00pm (Nov), 12:00-5:00pm (Dec) – FREE
Holiday shoppers can enjoy complimentary horse and carriage rides throughout the center on Saturdays from November 25th – December 23rd.
Pick-Up & Drop-Off Location In Front of Marcus Village Pointe Cinema
Nov 26th – Ralston’s Holiday Magic – 1:00-7:00pm – FREE
Join Mayor Groesser as we light up downtown and get into the holiday spirit! Bring your family out to enjoy a Ralston tradition! Visit Santa and enjoy FREE carriage rides, children’s activities, hot chocolate, and cookies.
Location: Independence Square – 77th St. & Main St., Ralston, NE
Nov 1st – Sunset Hike at Fontenelle – 5:30-7:00pm – Registration Required
- This hike will explore the gravel and dirt trails near the Nature Center then head to the third loop of the Boardwalk to watch the sunset over the Missouri River.
- Cost: $10 for Members, $18 for Non-Members
- Location: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center – 1111 Bellevue Blvd North, Bellevue,NE
Nov 1st – Kidz Bop Live 2024 – 7:00pm – $39.50 +
- Kids are taking over at KIDZ BOP Live 2024! New songs! New choreography! Special effects and more! Make memories that will last a lifetime and sing and dance along as the KIDZ BOP Kids perform your favorite songs on stage, like “Espresso,” “greedy,” “Lil Boo Thang,” “Million Dollar Baby,” “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM” and more.
- Location: Orpheum Theater
Nov 2nd – Final Day Bash at Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch – 9:00am-10:00pm
- Join them on their final day of the season for special fall harvest sale and fun activities throughout the day
- Location: Skinny Bones Pumpkin Patch – 3935 NE-133, Blair, NE 68008
Nov 2nd – Home Depot Kids Workshop: Pumpkin Tic-Tac-Toe – 9:00am-12:00pm – FREE
- First Saturday of each month between 9 am – 12 pm for free in-person Kids Workshops.
- Location: Home Depot Stores
Nov 2nd – Millard West Fall Craft Fair – 9:00am-3:00pm
- Location: Millard West High School – 5710 S176th Ave, Omaha, NE
Nov 2nd – Slime Buffet (Grades 3rd-6th) – 10:00am-11:00am – FREE [REGISTER]
- It’s slime time! Mix up a base slime recipe and then choose from a buffet of mix-in options. Be sure to dress for a mess! Parents do not need to stay in the program room, but do need to remain in the building.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 2nd – Celebrate at The Platform: Dia de Los Muertos – 10:00am-Noon – FREE
- Join at The Platform, the museum’s interactive play space, and celebrate the holidays with us! Each date will have a special craft or activity and feature related photos from our Photo Archive for a bit of a history lesson while you celebrate.
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE
Nov 2nd – Westside Holiday Market – 10:00am-4:00pm – FREE
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Please join us for an amazing Holiday Market with over 85+ crafters and vendors and Food trucks, Raffles and tons of fun all day long. Get a jump start on your holiday shopping as there is something for everyone! Hope to see you there and as always FREE ADMISSION!
- Location: Westside Community Center – 3534 S 108th St, Omaha, NE
Nov 2nd – Out & About Storytime: The Joslyn – 11:00-11:30am – FREE
- Join OPL at The Joslyn for storytime, featuring stories, creative movement, music and exploration of a piece of art. Storytime is geared toward preschoolers, but all ages are welcome. This Storytime is part of The Joslyn’s monthly Art-tastic Saturdays.
- Location: The Joslyn – 2200 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102
Nov 2nd – Annual Bison Fest at Botna Bend – 11:00am-2:00pm – FREE with Park Entry Fee
- Held on National Bison Day, this family-friendly event is a fun and affordable opportunity for the public to meet Botna Bend’s bison herd and learn more about this magnificent species and efforts to protect them. Activities for families will include atlatl throwing, hayrack rides, bison artifacts and fossils, crafts, bison wool spinning demonstrations, food, live music, and presentations about the vital role bison play in the prairie ecosystem, winter counts, and Native American history.
- Location: Botna Bend Park (~50 minutes from Omaha Metro) – 42926 Mahogany Road, Hancock, Iowa 51536
Nov 2nd – 5th Annual Wassailing – Noon – 3:00pm – FREE
- Help Ditmars celebrate the anciepnt British tradition and Wassail the apple trees with them! The public is invited to join the Ditmars family in the tradition of protecting our orchard and asking for the blessing of a successful crop next season. Activities include re-enactments of old English traditional rituals & ryhmes with a chance to see the wassailing ceremony every hour at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 & 3:30. Everyone joins in with chanting and music making, toasts of hot cider and placing gifts of cider-soaked bread — DONUTS, in their case! — onto the tree branches while chanting the lively words of praise for the New Year. Warm yourself next to our bonfires or in their new 3 seasons bar area. The admission is FREE and open to the public, young and old.
- Location: Ditmars
Nov 2nd – B.A.R.K. Ranger with the National Park Service – 2:00-4:00pm – FREE
- Join the National Park Service for B.A.R.K Ranger at the 8th Street Pavilion in Gene Leahy Mall near the Dog Park from 2PM – 4PM. Want to have your pup become a B.A.R.K. ranger? learn about our original B.A.R.K. Ranger: Seaman, complete a few activities, & understand the B.A.R.K. Ranger code! park Rangers will then help you take the B.A.R.K. Ranger pledge & sign your official certificate!
- Location: Gene Leahy Mall
Nov 2nd – Stargazing Events at Neale Woods – 7:00-9:00pm – $15-$25 Registration Required
- Can you find Canis Major in the night sky? What about Orion? Gemini? Forget the Big Dipper and head out to Neale Woods Nature Reserve to enjoy some constellations!
- Cost: $15 for Members, $25 for Non-Members
- Location: Neale Woods Nature Reserve
Nov 3rd – 2024 Pumpkin Smash – 10:00am-4:00pm – $10/pp
- Get Ready for the Great Pumpkin Smash Spectacular!
- Location: Ditmars Orchard – 19475 225th St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 3rd – Day of the Dead at Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch – 11:00am-6:00pm
- Join with family and friends to share the historical and cultural significance of Day of the Dead Mexican tradition. This celebration includes Mariachi music, authentic Mexican food, Catrina contest, folkloric dance, and an offering to the loved ones that have passed away.
- Location: Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch – 11015 S 48th St, Papillion, NE 68133
Nov 3rd – Storybook Land at Westroads Mall – 1:00-4:00pm – FREE
- Meet and greet your favorite storybook characters—Clifford, Pete the Cat, Little Critter, Jasper Rabbit, The Pigeon, and others—at Westroads Mall! Participants will receive a passport upon arrival, and can collect a stamp for each costume character they visit and redeem it for a free book, while supplies last. Storytime will run on the following schedule:
- 1:30pm – Clifford Storytime
- 2:15pm – The Pigeon Storytime (bilingual)
- 3:00pm – Pete the Cat Storytime
- Location: Westroads Mall – 10000 California St, Omaha, NE 68114
Nov 3rd – Romantasy Craft & Chat (Adults) – 7:00-8:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
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You are invited to a Romantasy craft and chat! Are you a fan of enemies-to-lovers, arranged marriages and morally gray characters? Then come with your favorite book and a few you’d like to trade. We will have snacks, drinks, a book swap table, and a craft for the night. We’ll vent about our favorite character’s death, discuss favorite tropes, celebrate redemption arcs and much more! Maybe you’ll leave with a recommended book.
- Location: La Vista Community Center – 8116 Park View Blvd, La Vista, NE 68128
Nov 4th – Out & About Storytime: Chalco Hills – 10:30-11:00am – FREE
- Join OPL at different parks and places for storytime, featuring stories, creative movement, music and more. Storytime is geared toward preschoolers, but all ages are welcome.
- In November, learn about turkeys.
- Location: Chalco Hills Natural Resources Center – 8901 S 154th St, Omaha, NE 68138
Nov 4th – Paper Cup Glider – 2:30-3:45pm – FREE
- Drop in! Stop by the Treehouse to make a paper cup glider and learn how round objects move through the air.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 5th – Polar Express Storytime and Wish List Workshop – 11:00am – FREE
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All aboard for a magical holiday experience!! Join on a journey to the north pole!! Come dressed in your favorite jammies and gather around for a Hot Chocolate, “Polar Express” storytime, and make a wish list to mail Santa!! Each passenger receives a magic bell as the first gift of Christmas! This is a FREE, all ages event!! First come, first serve, while supplies last!
- Location: The Learning Express Omaha – 120 Regency Pkwy, Omaha, NE 68114
Nov 5th – Creepy Carrots Escape Room – 1pm-4pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- The Creepy Carrots have trapped Jasper Rabbit in a box of candy! Can you solve the puzzles and clues quick enough to save Jasper Rabbit from the Creepy Carrots? Or will he eat all the candy before we can get to him? Come find out at this escape room based on the best-selling picture book “Creepy Carrots” by Aaron Reynolds.
- Location: Saddlebrook Branch
Nov 5th – Make It! Mini Lightsabers – 5:00-6:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Build your own mini LED lightsaber with a straw in this quick Star Wars-themed STEM activity. May the Force be with you!
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Nov 5th – Cricut Mug Press: The Basics – 5:00-7:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Learn how to use the Cricut Mug Press to make custom mugs! In this beginner class, we’ll show you how to set it up, create designs, and safely press them onto mugs. Bring along an image you’d love to see on your mug!
- Teens & Adults
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Nov 6th – Little Saplings Nature Discover Program: Bison – 9:00-10:00am or 10:00-11:00am – $4/kids, $5/adults
- Little Saplings, Schramm Education Center’s early childhood nature discovery program. Little Saplings, a monthly program designed for children ages 2 – 5 and their adult caregiver, will bring nature themes to life for your child through story time, sensory activities, crafts, and outdoor exploration!
- Location: Schramm Education Center – 21502 West Highway 31, Gretna, NE
Nov 7th – Christmas Caravan Tour of Homes – 10:00am-8:00pm – $18-20/Ticket
- Tour beautifully decorated homes across the Omaha Area. Boutique holiday shopping. Thrift Shop Boutique, Luncheon and Bake Sale at Champions Run. Tours are $18 when pre-ordered or $20 the day of event, and there’s a $15 luncheon at Champions. No children under 12 admitted.
- Location: Champions Run – 13800 Eagle Run Drive
Nov 7th – Veterans Shine On – 6:00-7:00pm – FREE
- a special night honoring our Veterans. The event will include guest speakers, a laying of the wreath ceremony for our war representatives, music, and the grand lighting of the WWII Colonnade. Speakers include Mayor Jean Stothert, Councilmember Pete Festersen, and special guests Major (Ret) Yen Nguyen and Thu Nguyen. Refreshments will be served. We look forward to your attendance.
- Location: Memorial Park – 6005 Underwood Ave., Omaha, NE.
Nov 8th – Candy Cane Slime – 11:00am – FREE
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Get ready for a holly jolly good time as we mix up a festive Candy Cane slime! Complete with crunchy mix-ins, sprinkles, sweet peppermint aroma and topped with Candy Cane charms!! This is a FREE, all ages event!! First come, first serve, while supplies last
- Location: The Learning Express Omaha
Nov 8th – Star Party with Gretna Public Library – 6:00-8:00pm – FREE
- Peruse the night sky with a seasoned volunteer from the Omaha Astronomical Society. Blanket and camp chairs recommended.
- Location: Soccer Fields at Gretna Crossing Park – 213th & Capehart, Gretna, NE 68028
Nov 4-9th – Reuben Fest 2024 – Times Vary
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Mark your calendars, save the date, and plan to join us Monday, Nov. 4th – Saturday, Nov. 9th for all things Reuben!!
- Location: Crescent Moon Ale House – 3578 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68131
Nov 9th – 2024 Fall Westside High School Craft Fair – 8:00am – $3/pp
- There will be 130+ Vendors, Food Trucks, a Raffle and Swag Bags for the first 50 Shoppers!
- Location: Westside High School – 8701 Pacific St, Omaha, NE
Nov 9th – Buy Local Craft and Vendor Fair – 8:30am-2:00pm – FREE
- The Library’s Buy Local Craft and Vendor Fair is a fantastic event that brings together local artisans, crafters and small business owners to showcase and sell their products. This year, we’ll have a wide variety of handmade goods, such as jewelry, journals, pottery, candles, and artwork, as well as locally baked goods. The community is invited to shop at our Buy Local Craft and Vendor Fair and admission is free!
- Location: La Vista Public Library – 9110 Giles Rd, La Vista, NE 68128
Nov 9th – Second Saturday Craft Circle at Bennington Library – 9:00am-Noon – FREE
- 9:00-10:00am – Group Lead Craft Project
- 10:00am-Noon – Social Crafting
- Location: Bennington Public Library
Nov 9th – Burke Fall Boutique – 9:00am-3:00pm
- Lots of Vendors, All-Day Raffle Drawings, Food & Bake Sale. The funds raised will help the Instrumental Music Department acquire their music and props, and will help with instrument maintenance.
- Location: Burke High School – 12200 Burke Blvd, Omaha, NE
Nov 9th – Nebraska’s Official Veterans Day Parade 2024 – 10:00 am – FREE
- Nebraska’s Official Veterans Day Parade, sponsored annually by the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce & Community
- Location: Mission Avenue in Old Towne Bellevue
Nov 9th – Music with Lori Lynn at CB Library – 10:00-10:30am – FREE
- 30 minutes of singing and musical fun with Lori Lynn from Overall Buddies! Most appropriate for kids ages 5 and younger and an adult companion.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 9th – Celebrate at The Platform: Veterans Day – 10:00am-Noon – FREE
- Join at The Platform, the museum’s interactive play space, and celebrate the holidays with us! Each date will have a special craft or activity and feature related photos from our Photo Archive for a bit of a history lesson while you celebrate.
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE
Nov 9th – Joslyn Castle Holiday Boutique – 10:00am-4:00pm – Tickets Required ($10)
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Over 20 unique, local vendors into the Joslyn Castle, nestled throughout all three levels of the historic home! This is your chance to celebrate and shop for EVERYONE on your holiday list! Your $10 entry fee is a fundraiser for the Joslyn Castle & Gardens Guild, who work to maintain the historic property to its original splendor.
- Location: Joslyn Castle & Gardens – 3910 Davenport St, Omaha, NE 68131
Nov 9th – Council Bluffs Veterans Day Parade – 11:00 a.m. – FREE
- A parade honoring our Veterans, past and present! The parade will be followed by a free-will offering meal at The American Legion with raffle items. auctions, and prizes.
- See the parade route here.
Nov 9th – Big Play Saturday: Alpaca Christmas! – 11:00am-1:00pm – FREE
- What’s the best way to get into the holiday spirit? Alpacas, of course! Their good friends from Pixie’s Pony Tales will be bringing real alpacas to our store for kids to meet. Plus, there will be hot cocoa and cookies at the UMB bank next door along with a photo opportunity with Santa Claus until 2 PM. It’s sure to make your Saturday morning merry and bright!
- Location: Fat Brain Toys – 16909 Burke St Suite 131, Omaha, NE
Nov 9th – 9th Annual Kitty Cafe: A Cat Adoption Fair – 1:00-3:00pm – FREE
- Spend quality time with adorable, adoptable kittens at the return of the annual Kitty Café! They’ll have the toe bean scavenger hunt again, a cat-themed community puzzle, our board game boop. out for groups to play, kitty coloring sheets, and more! It’ll be a real paw-rty.
- Location: Gretna Public Library – 736 South St, Gretna, NE 68028
Nov 9th – B.A.R.K. Ranger with the National Park Service – 2:00-4:00pm – FREE
- Join the National Park Service for B.A.R.K Ranger at the 8th Street Pavilion in Gene Leahy Mall near the Dog Park from 2PM – 4PM. Want to have your pup become a B.A.R.K. ranger? learn about our original B.A.R.K. Ranger: Seaman, complete a few activities, & understand the B.A.R.K. Ranger code! park Rangers will then help you take the B.A.R.K. Ranger pledge & sign your official certificate!
- Location: Gene Leahy Mall
Nov 9th – Toxic Tales: The Science of Venomous Snakes – 6:00-7:30pm – Registration Required
- In this engaging session, you’ll learn about the mechanics of snake venom and uncover the truth behind common myths and misconceptions surrounding these mysterious reptiles. Whether you’re a snake enthusiast or simply curious about these intriguing creatures, this event promises to be a captivating and educational experience. This program is intended for adults and children 8 and older.
- Cost: $10 for Members, $20 for Non-Members
- Location: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center – 1111 Bellevue Blvd North, Bellevue, NE
Nov 9th – The Weisenheimers – 7:30pm – $25/pp
- Five-time Omaha Entertainment and Arts Award winners, The Weisenheimers once again bring improv comedy to the Howard Drew Theatre. For over two and a half decades, The Weisenheimers have blended satirical irreverence with high energy absurdity in improvised shows, based on the audience’s suggestions. Each show is a once-in-a-lifetime event that is somehow both whip-smart and hilariously dumb.
- Location: Omaha Community Playhouse – 6915 Cass St, Omaha, NE 68132
Nov 9th – Omaha History Escape Room (Teens & Adults) – Times Vary – FREE [REGISTER]
- Dr. Watson is missing, and Enola Holmes and her brother Sherlock are counting on you to help unlock the secret to Watson’s disappearance! Can you solve the puzzles and clues based on the best-selling “Enola Holmes” book series by Nancy Springer in time to save Watson?
- Location: Florence Branch
Nov 7-10th – Autumn Festival, An Arts & Crafts Affair – Times Vary – Tickets Req ($10/Adults, $9/Seniors, 10 under free)
- Hundreds of the Nation’s finest artists and crafters display and sell their handcrafted works. Voted one of the top 100 shows in the country according to Sunshine Artist Magazine. Hourly gift certificate drawings, food & drink, free parking, and lots of family fun!
- Location: Liberty First Credit Union Arena – 7300 Q St, Omaha, NE
See more Veterans Day Events and Discounts in Omaha here!
- In honor of Veterans Day, enjoy local events, restaurant discounts, and free admission to some area attractions for veterans and active military personnel. Thank you for your service!
Nov 8th-10th – Omaha Holiday Boutique – $8+
- The *BRAND NEW* Omaha Holiday Boutique launches this year at the CHI Health Center, in Omaha, Nebraska, from November 8-10, 2024. Join us for 3 exciting days of festive fun & SHOPPING!
- Location: CHI Health Center Omaha – 455 N 10th St, Omaha, NE 68102
Nov 11th – Holiday Sensory Bins – 11:00am – FREE
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Deck you senses with our DIY Holiday Sensory Bin workshop!! Prickly Pinecones & soft Pom-poms, Twinkling Lights and Shiny Ornaments, Smooth Snowmen & Curly Candy Canes, Festive rice & Holiday Treasures to dig and discover!! This is a FREE, all ages event! First come, first serve, while supplies last!
- Location: The Learning Express Omaha
Nov 11th – A Motown Christmas Holiday Spectacular – 7:00pm – $49.50-$69.50
- A Motown Christmas is a powerful family-oriented show combining Motown’s greatest hits with everyone’s favorite holiday classics. This show features those famous Motown trademarks…dazzling choreography and unforgettable harmonies all performed in that memorable, soulful Motown style. Bring the family, dance, sing, and enjoy this special, holiday spectacular.
- Location: Holland Performing Arts Center
Nov 12th – Toddler Tuesday: “Mean Soup” Storytime with Mrs. M! – 10:30-11:30am – FREE
- Come and learn an important lesson on how to channel a bad mood through a fun story! Our good friend Mrs. M will be reading Betsy Everitt’s childrens book “Mean Soup”. Let’s enter the holiday season with joyful spirits!
- Location: Fat Brain Toys – 16909 Burke St Suite 131, Omaha, NE
Nov 12th – Design It! Perfect Paper Airplane – 5:00-6:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Have you ever wondered what makes a paper plane fly? Some paper planes clearly fly better than others. But why is this? One factor is the kind of design used to build the plane. In this activity, you will get to build a paper plane and change its basic design to see how this affects its flight.
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Nov 12th – Cricut T-Shirt Press: The Basics – 5:00-7:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Learn how to use the Cricut Easy Press to make your own heat-transfer projects! This simple workshop will show you how to press designs onto fabric. You’ll get easy steps and tips to create custom t-shirts, bags, and more. Perfect for beginners—no experience needed! Bring along an image you’d love to see on your t-shirt!
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Nov 12th – Happy Teensgiving at Bennington Library – 6:00-7:00pm – FREE
- Bring your favorite fall dish to share & give thanks with friends!
- Location: Bennington Public Library
Nov 13th – Homeschool in the Hills: Loess Hills Geology – 10:00-11:30am or 1:00-2:30pm – $5/child
- Little Saplings, Schramm Education Center’s early childhood nature discovery program. Little Saplings, a monthly program designed for children ages 2 – 5 and their adult caregiver, will bring nature themes to life for your child through story time, sensory activities, crafts, and outdoor exploration!
- Location: Hitchcock Nature Center – 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, Iowa 51542
Nov 13th – Tinker Zone: Dancing Corn – 3:00-5:00pm – FREE
- Use corn kernels, baking soda, water, and vinegar to make corn kernels dance using science!
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 13th – U.S. Capital Christmas Tree Whistlestop Tour – 5:00-7:00pm – FREE
Nov 13th – Family Night at The Union – 5:00-7:00pm – FREE
- Families are invited to make art in The Union’s Youth Studios. Bring your loved ones for fun and creative play. Activities and materials may include: drawing, painting, printmaking, and more These events are FREE and open to the public. No registration required to participate.
- Location: The Union for Contemporary Art – 2423 North 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110
Nov 13th – Trans-Siberian Orchestra – The Lost Christmas Eve – 7:00pm – $59.99+
- The holidays rock a whole lot harder than they ever have thanks to Trans-Siberian Orchestra. By infusing seasonal classics with rock flamboyance, a symphonic sense of scope, and an eye-popping visual presentation complete with lasers and pyrotechnics, what began as a side project for a veteran group of American hard rockers has grown into one of today’s top-selling acts, with over 10 million concert tickets sold since 1999.
- Location: Mid-America Center
Nov 14th – Dino Tea Party – 10:00-11:00am – FREE
- Do you like dinosaurs? Do you like dressing up? Join as they combine the two at this dinosaur themed tea party. They’ll have a visit from a dinosaur friend. Dress up costumes are encouraged!
- Location: Papillion Public Library – 222 N Jefferson St, Papillion, NE 68046
Nov 14th – 3D Printing Drop-In: Wishbone – 2:00-4:00pm – FREE
- Stop by the Makerspace to learn about the process of 3D Printing! Take home a 3D printed Wishbone!
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 14th – Tree of Lights Family Festival 2024 – 5:00pm (Tree Lighting at 6:00pm) – FREE
- Join in the American National Bank parking lot at the corner of 90th & Dodge for the 2024 Tree of Lights Family Festival. It all starts at 5 p.m. on Nov. 14 with free food, family-fun activities, and pictures with Santa. Then, the fun continues with live musical performances and the lighting of our 75-foot-tall Christmas tree just after sunset.
- Location: American National Bank – 8990 W Dodge Rd, Omaha, NE 68114
Nov 14th – Paper Crafting Drop-In: Turkey – 6:30-8:00pm – FREE
- Stop by the Makerspace to make & take a paper crafting project.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 15th – Dino Party with Gretna Public Library – 10:30am-Noon – FREE
- Celebrate dinos with lots of fun dinosaur activities for ages 1-6! Just drop in, no library card or registration required.
- Location: Gretna United Methodist Church – 11457 S. 204th St, Gretna, NE
Nov 15th – Mario Kart Tournaments – 4:00-5:00pm & 5:00-6:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Do you like dinosaurs? Do you like dressing up? Join as they combine the two at this dinosaur themed tea party. They’ll have a visit from a dinosaur friend. Dress up costumes are encouraged!
- Location: Papillion Landing Digital Library – 1046 W Lincoln St, Papillion, NE 6804
Nov 15th – Full Moon Hike – 5:30-7:00pm – FREE with Park Entry
- Take in the sights and sounds of the park after dark and join us for an evening hike on the trails at Hitchcock Nature Center under a full moon.
- Location: Hitchcock Nature Center – 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, Iowa 51542
Nov 15th – Full Moon Hike: Beaver Moon – 5:30-7:30pm – Registration Required
- Hikes will begin no later than 30 minutes after the event start time, so be sure to arrive on time. All hikes will include an educational discussion of the nocturnal animals around the Forest and a brief talk into the lore of full moons. The event will include a bonfire and s’mores.
- Cost: $15 for Members, $25 for Non-Members
- Location: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center – 1111 Bellevue Blvd North, Bellevue, NE
Nov 16th – Turkey Trails Race at Seymour Smith Park – 9:00am – REGISTER
- Whether you’re an experience runner of just looking for a fun way to stay active, this race is for everyone. Registration fees include: Long Sleeve T-shirt, Medal, Bib & Timing Chip and Refreshment.
- Kids Dash, 1 Mile, 5K, 10K
- Location: Seymour Smith Park – 6802 Harrison St
Nov 16th – Fall Elkhorn High School Craft Fair – 9:00am-3:00pm – $3/pp
- The Elkhorn High School Fall Craft Fair is a fundraiser supporting the Track & Cheer Teams. There will be over 130 vendors, food trucks, a raffle, and the first 50 shoppers through the door will get a SWAG BAG!! We look forward to seeing you there. $3 Admission to help support the Track and Cheer Programs
- Location: Elkhorn High School – 1401 Veterans Dr, Elkhorn, NE 68022
Nov 16th – Bennington MomCo St. John’s Craft Show – 9:00am-3:00pm – FREE
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La Cabanita food truck will be parked out front from 11am-1pm. Bennington MomCo (formerly Bennington MOPS & MOMSnext) is hosting our annual St. John’s Bennington 2024 Craft Show, Saturday, November 16th from 9am-3pm and are now accepting handcrafted vendors!
- Location: St. John’s Lutheran Church – 322 N Molley St, Bennington, NE 68007
Nov 16th – 10th Annual Fall Craft Fair at Holy Cross Lutheran Church – 9:00am-3:00pm – FREE
- Over 30 arts & crafts vendors from around the Omaha area will be set up with their goods to help kick off your holiday shopping!
- Location: Holy Cross Lutheran – 4117 Terrace Dr, Omaha, NE
Nov 16th – Holly Jolly Boutique & Art Show – 9:00am-4:00pm – FREE at 10:00am
- Shop and visit with local artists and crafters at the beautiful Omaha Palazzo on 132nd and Fort! There will be something for everyone – art, jewelry, snacks, handmade accessories, Christmas decor and more! General Admission is FREE after 10am!
- Location: Omaha Palazzo – 13303 Fort St, Omaha, NE 68164
Nov 16th – Holiday Market by Ralston American Legion Baseball – 9:00am-4:00pm
- With over 80 vendors, you will find everything from handmade items to unique gifts, home decor, art, jewelry, accessories, boutique items, novelties, and even food vendors.
- Location: Ralston High School – 8969 Park Drive, Ralston, NE 68127
Nov 16th – Drop In: Dinosaur Program at CB Library – 10:00am-Noon – FREE
- Stop in and participate in a variety of dinosaur themed crafts, games, and fun!
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 16th – Hometown Holiday: Creating Family Memories, One Ornament at a Time! – 10:00am-4:00pm – FREE
- Join for a day filled with festive fun and holiday cheer! Mingle and Jingle around the store. Enjoy free workshops, and make-and-take crafts while you shop and create new memories together. Sip on refreshments, listen to cozy holiday music, and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holidays and get a head start on your holiday shopping!
- Location: Mangelsen’s – 3457 S 84th St, Omaha, NE 68124
Nov 16th – Big Play Saturday: Jingle Jam! – 11:00-11:30am – FREE
- They’re getting into the Holiday spirit! From 11 to 11:30, our friend Lori Lynn will be filling their store with lovely Christmas songs. Meanwhile, they’ll have supplies for kids to make their Christmas lists, and they’ll have an elf scavenger hunt. If you can find all the elves between our store and Long Dog Fat Cat, you’ll get a $10 gift card!
- Location: Fat Brain Toys – 16909 Burke St Suite 131, Omaha, NE
Nov 16th – Pet Photos with Santa – a BNBR Fundraiser – Noon-4:00pm – $20
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Located inside of Santas Workshop at Shadow Lake Mall in Papillion (Next to Hickory Farms). Bring your family and your pets to get a professional photo taken with Santa on Saturday, Nov 16th from 12-4pm. Jen Christensen with Sit. Click. Stay will be doing the photography. $20 donation, Cash or Venmo only. Additional donations are always appreciated! All donations benefit and go towards the cost of daily care and emergencies for Bullies-N-Beyond Resq dogs.
- Location: Shadow Lake Towne Center – 10422 S 72nd St, Papillion, NE 68046
Nov 16th – Puzzle Race at Gretna Public Library – 1:00-3:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Compete in teams to finish a 500-piece puzzle in 2 hours or less! Register as a group of up to 4 people or for the solo group. Once team member must be 12 or older. Prizes sponsored by Spielbound Board Game Café and the Gretna Community Foundation.
- Location: Gretna Public Library – 736 South St, Gretna, NE 68028
Nov 16th – Celebrate Christmas Together with Sparkling Ornaments Class (Ages 14+) – 1:00-3:00pm – $15-30 [Register by Nov 10th]
- Get into the holiday spirit by making sparkling holiday decorations! Each student will make two Christmas ball ornaments using acrylic ink and glitter.
- Location: Gallery 92 West/Fremont Area Art Association
Nov 16th – Saturday Matinee: Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes – 2:00-4:00pm – FREE
- Generations in the future following Caesar’s reign, apes are living harmoniously as the dominant species — and humans are living in the shadows. As a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire, one young ape undertakes a harrowing journey that will cause him to question the past and make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.
- 2024 ~ PG-13 ~ 2h 25m
- Popcorn included!
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 16th – Autumn’s End Hike with Dustin Clayton – 2:00-4:00pm – $10
- As the last of the leaves fall and the summer plants dry to brown and gold, let’s take a hike while engaging in contemplative acknowledgment of the shifting of the season. We’ll talk about the bounty of the year past and discuss techniques for keeping attuned to the living world throughout the winter months. Back at the lodge, we will examine some of the methods that herbalists have used to preserve medicinal plants through a variety of medicine making techniques.
- Ages 16+
- Location: Hitchcock Nature Center – 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, Iowa 51542
Nov 16th – How the Grinch Stole Christmas / Elf / Christmas Vacation – 7:00pm – $5-$10
- Enjoy 3 holiday movies: How the Grinch Stole Christmas, ELF, and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
- Location: Quasar Drive-In Theater – 13427 N. 300th Street, Valley, NE 68064
Nov 16th – Owl Prowl – 7:00-8:30pm – Registration Required
- Explore the mysterious world of owls. Learn about the owls of Nebraska and meet our educational owls up-close. Enjoy s’mores and hot chocolate around a fire pit. Go on a guided hike to look and listen for owls. Activities will be both indoors and outdoors. Be sure to dress for the weather.
- Cost: $15 for Members, $25 for Non-Members
- Location: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center – 1111 Bellevue Blvd North, Bellevue, NE
Nov 15-17th – Block Party Family Fun Weekend – 9:00am – 4:00pm – Museum Admission
- Location: Omaha Children’s Museum – 500 S. 20th St., Omaha, NE.
Nov 15-17th – Wizard Weekend Tea – Tea Times Vary – Reservations Required
- They will have your favorite wizard treats available in the bakery Friday-Sunday with some tea parties, adult and child friendly butterbeer, Happee Birthdae cake and costume contests, plus some trivia sprinkled in.
- Location: The Bubbly Tart – 3020 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE
Nov 17th – Julemarked: A Danish Holiday Market – 10:00am-4:00pm – FREE
- Artisans, unique Boutiques, food, and music.
- Location: Danish Vennelyst Park – 9100 N 31st St, Omaha, NE 68112
Nov 17th – Midtown Merry Market – 11:00am-4:00pm – FREE
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Join for festivities & drinks for our sixth annual Midtown Merry Market! Shop 30 local makers and vendors – hand-poured candles and soaps, hand-lettered signs and products, coffees and teas, trendy clothing, live instrumental Christmas music and much more.
- Location: Empire Room at Midtown Crossing – 200 S 31st Ave #4107, Omaha, NE
Nov 17th – Local Author Fair – 1:00-3:00pm – FREE
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Meet and greet the authors, purchase books, and ask questions about their books, research, or writing process. Authors will be stationed in the main area of the library so library visitors can easily walk around and visit with these literary guests of honor. Genres include mystery, psychological thriller, science fiction, fantasy, historical fiction, local lore, paranormal, young adult, and even youth titles. Please join for this event to support local authors and to be informed of all their publications and projects.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 17th – Season of Lights at Midtown Crossing Kick Off – Dusk – FREE
- Don’t miss the radiant kickoff of Midtown’s Crossing’s Season of Lights at dusk. And come early for the annual Midtown Merry Market. Settle into the peace and tranquility of a winter’s night. Stroll through tens of thousands of white LED lights strung throughout Turner Park and along Farnam Street. Plus, visit the beautifully decorated tree in Farnam Court.
- Location: Midtown Crossing at Turner Park – 200 S 31st Ave, Omaha, NE
Nov 18th – Stomp, Chomp, Roar – 10:00-11:00am – FREE
- Celebrate Dinovember with this fun-filled event as Dinosaur Ranger Anthony tells us all about these prehistoric animals of wonder!
- Location: Papillion Public Library – 222 N Jefferson St, Papillion, NE 68046
Nov 18th – The Human Body Drop-In – 2:30-3:45pm – FREE
- You know about paper dolls, right? That’s what they’re making today except instead of clothes for the outside, you’ll be making all the different things that are on the INSIDE of your body.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 18th – Rubber Duck Cosplay – 4:00-5:30pm – FREE
- Use craft supplies, pain and clay to transform a rubber duck into the coolest bird in town. Grades 6-12.
- Location: Gretna Public Library – 736 South St, Gretna, NE 68028
Nov 19th – Out & About Storytime at Bennington Fire – 10:00-10:30am – FREE
- Location: Bennington Fire & Rescue Station – 18801 N 156th St, Bennington, NE 68007
Nov 19th – Toddler Tuesday: Kindermusik with Overton Music Studios! – 10:30-11:30am – FREE
- Let’s make some music! Brains will grow and smiles will shine as kids work together to make some awesome music with Miss Kerry from @kindermusikomaha
- Location: Fat Brain Toys – 16909 Burke St Suite 131, Omaha, NE
Nov 19th – Make It! Chain Reaction – 5:00-6:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- If you enjoy chain reactions and spectacular sights, this activity is for you! Who knew weaving unspectacular tongue depressors could set off a chain reaction of sticks flying in the air? Try it out and see for yourself!
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Nov 19th – Teen Board Game Night – 6:00-7:00pm – FREE
- Get your game on at the library! They’re hosting Teen Board Game Night on Tuesday, November 19 from 6 – 7 PM. They’ll have three exciting games to play, so don’t miss out. And a HUGE thanks to Exploding Kittens for donating these games!
- Location: Ralston’s Baright Public Library – 5555 S 77th St, Ralston, NE 68127
Nov 20th – How to Sew: A Holiday Countdown Calendar (Ages 14+) – 6:00-8:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Come by the Makerspace and learn how to embroider your name on fabric! Choose from a selection of fonts and colors, and build your skills with our embroidery machine.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 21st – Homeschool Hikes: Deer (Friends and Food) – 1:00-2:30pm – $4/kids, $5/adults
- Little Saplings, Schramm Education Center’s early childhood nature discovery program. Little Saplings, a monthly program designed for children ages 2 – 5 and their adult caregiver, will bring nature themes to life for your child through story time, sensory activities, crafts, and outdoor exploration!
- Location: Schramm Education Center – 21502 West Highway 31, Gretna, NE
Nov 21st – Homeschool Huddle – 1:00-3:00pm – FREE
- It’s all dinosaurs this Dinovember! We’re going back in time to learn all about these “terrible lizards” and how some of them might not be as extinct as you think.
- Location: Council Bluffs Public Library – 400 Willow Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 21st – Ugly Christmas Sweater Decorating (Ages 15+) – 6:00pm – FREE
- Get ready to win the Ugly Sweater Contest! The library will provide all the decorations you need to create the perfect Ugly Christmas Sweater. You will need to bring your own sweater. Ages 15+ are welcome.
- Location: La Vista Public Library
Nov 22nd & 23rd – Holiday Modern Market – 10:00am-8:00pm (22nd), 10:00am-5:00pm (23rd)
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Shop 30+ curated small shops of Nebraska. This family-friendly event is perfect for the entire family – get pics with Santa Claus by their professional photographer. Santa will be available both days 10-5.
- Location: Omaha Palazzo – 5110 N 132nd St, Omaha, NE 68164
Nov 22nd – Storyweaver – 6:00-7:30pm – FREE with Park Entry
- Once a month we invite you to gather with like minded folk and tell a short story about or inspired by the Natural world. Stories may be true, fictional, or mythic. They may be inspired by history, fairytale/legend/folklore, personal experience, observation, family history etc. They may be sad, dramatic, funny, wise, or exciting.
- Ages 16+
- Location: Hitchcock Nature Center – 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, Iowa 51542
Nov 22nd – Winterfest at Bayliss Park – 6:00-8:00pm – FREE
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The fun begins at 6:00 p.m. with the tree lighting ceremony. Santa Claus and Mayor Matt Walsh will lead the crowd in a lively rendition of “Jingle Bells,” followed by a countdown to light up the park with over 60,000 twinkling lights!
- Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in their tent for photos, and children can send their Christmas wishes without waiting in line by dropping letters into the North Pole Mailbox at the Letters to Santa station. Bike rides with The Grinch
- New this year, we’ve added more attractions to reduce wait times. In addition to face painting, balloon art, and holiday-themed photo cutouts, families can enjoy an outdoor screening of the movie Frozen. Plus, three beloved characters from the film will be on-site for meet-and-greets and photo opportunities!
- Location: Bayliss Park – 100 Pearl St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Nov 22nd – Battleship in the Pool! – 6:00pm – $30/team [Register]
- For 6th-8th Graders. 16 Teams, 4 Canoes, One Goal…Sink! That! Boat! Register online at parks.cityofomaha.org
- Location: Montclair Community Center – 2304 S 135th Ave, Omaha, NE
Nov 22nd – Music of Queen – 7:30pm – $20-$130
- Celebrate the immortal music of Queen as the talented and charismatic Windborne band joins the Omaha Symphony to play hits including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “We Will Rock You,” and many more!
- Location: Holland Performing Arts Center
Nov 23rd – Elkhorn North Craft Fair – 9:00am-3:00pm – $3/pp
- First Annual Holiday Craft Fair on November 23rd, from 9 AM to 3 PM! Discover amazing crafters, vendors, bakers, and artists all in one place. Support varsity cheerleaders while finding the perfect items just in time for Thanksgiving. Admission is only $3.
- Location: Elkhorn North High School – 17800 George Miller Pkwy, Omaha, NE 68116
Nov 23rd – Celebrate at The Platform: Thanksgiving – 10:00am-Noon – FREE
- Join at The Platform, the museum’s interactive play space, and celebrate the holidays with us! Each date will have a special craft or activity and feature related photos from our Photo Archive for a bit of a history lesson while you celebrate.
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE
Nov 23rd – Scribner’s Tannenbaum Festival – 10:00am-3:00pm – Free Will Donation
- Join for a fun filled day! They will have our wonderful display of uniquely designed and decorated trees, handmade crafts from local vendors, raffle prizes, a silent auction, and a visit from Santa!
- Location: Mohr Auditorium – 654 Cord 13 Blvd, Scribner, NE 68057
Nov 23rd – Slime Time with Gretna Public Library – 1:00-2:30pm – FREE
- Get ready for a slimy adventure! Not solid, not liquid – it’s slime time! Let’s plunge into the squishy realm of slime! For kids in Grades K-5 and an adult.
- Location: Gretna Public Library – 736 South St, Gretna, NE 68028
Nov 23rd – Holiday Button Painting – 1:00-3:00pm – $22
- This meet-up we will be painting + buttons on wooden backer. Beginner friendly, they’ll provide instruction, all materials and some fun templates to make your own uniquely you holiday creations.
- Location: 1301 Nicholas St, Omaha, NE 68102
Nov 23rd – Zine Workshop – 2:00-3:00 p.m. – FREE [REGISTER]
- Join library staff to learn how to create your own zine at this hands-on workshop!
- Locations: Millard Branch
Nov 23rd – Design Studio: Dino Eggs – 3:00-4:00pm – FREE [REGISTER]
- Get crafty and show off your art skills in this monthly program for 9-12 year olds. New project each month! This month: Dino Eggs
- Location: Papillion Landing Digital Library – 1046 W Lincoln St, Papillion, NE 68046
Nov 23rd – Ashland Holiday Art Walk – 5:00-9:00pm – FREE
- Visit Ashland’s Historic Flora District
- Location: 1526 Silver St, Ashland, NE 68003
Nov 24th – The Nebraska Holiday Market (Lincoln) – 10:00am-3:00pm – $8 (12 and under free)
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The first annual, Nebraska Holiday Market, hosted in partnership with the People’s City Mission! Discover unique gifts with our “Holiday Gift Guide,” showcasing exclusive deals from local vendors you won’t find anywhere else. Feel the magic of the season with a warm cup of cocoa, a visit with Santa, and a festive atmosphere with mini Christmas Trees! You’ll have the chance to take home a fully decorated mini tree by purchasing raffle tickets. All proceeds will go toward supporting the People’s City Mission.
- Location: Sandhills Global Event Center – 4100 N 84th St, Lincoln, NE
Nov 24th – Habitat Hikes: Neale Woods – 2:00-4:00pm – REGISTER
- Explore Nebraska’s prairies, wetlands and forests at Fontenelle Forest’s Habitat Hikes! Join their naturalist educators on a guided hike through these different habitats and learn about each of these unique ecosystems! Habitat Hikes will be held monthly, as they visit different locations and discover habitat changes each season.
- Cost: FREE for Members, $15 for Non-Members
- Location: Neale Woods Nature Reserve – 14323 Edith Marie Ave, Omaha, NE 68112
Nov 25th – “Coming Home for the Holidays” Luncheon & Market – 10:30am-2:00pm- $125/Luncheon Ticket
- Join The Durham Museum’s On Track Guild for a fun-filled day of shopping, food and holiday spirit. Their favorite boutique vendors will stock items to check off your holiday shopping lists and brighten your home for the holiday season. All shoppers are invited to a luncheon featuring a holiday-themed presenter, entertainment and raffle drawing. Don’t forget to don your best plaid!
- Location: The Durham Museum – 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE
Nov 18th-24th – Take & Make: Turkey Bot – FREE
- Location: Do Space – 5111 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134