Santa leads a short holiday parade down Main Street at Shadow Lake, lights the big tree and kicks off the season with fireworks.
An evening in the week before or of Thanksgiving · Shadow Lake Towne Center
Shadow Lake Towne Center, the outdoor shopping district at 72nd Street and Highway 370 in Papillion, hosts one of the metro's longest-running mall holiday kickoffs. The evening starts with a holiday parade led by Santa, then he lights the center's tree on its Main Street.
Past editions have featured high school marching bands, circus performers, glow-in-the-dark jugglers and stilt walkers, and a fireworks show sponsored by the Salvation Army Kroc Center to open its Red Kettle campaign.
It is short, free and very kid-friendly, which makes it a good first holiday outing for families staying in the south metro.
A big three-day holiday market with 200-plus vendors, a decorated designer home and a Friday Girls Night Out.
CHI Health Center Omaha · North Downtown
Nearest CityLine stays: Blue Oasis: Modern 1-Bed Retreat Apt 1 (1.7 mi), Midtown Home w/ Historic Charm (1.9 mi) · See all rentals by distance
The zoo's after-dark holiday light walk, with hundreds of glowing lanterns, cookie decorating, Santa and private igloos.
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium · South Omaha
Nearest CityLine stays: Modern Chic Retreat Luxe Comfort and Style (2.5 mi), Martha St Villa, Pool, Hot Tub, Grill (2.5 mi) · See all rentals by distance
Omaha's official Christmas tree, nearly 40 feet tall, glows in the Art Deco great hall of the old Union Station, with Santa, sock skating and holiday concerts.
The Durham Museum · Downtown & RiverFront
Nearest CityLine stays: Blue Oasis: Modern 1-Bed Retreat Apt 1 (1.8 mi), Midtown Home w/ Historic Charm (1.9 mi) · See all rentals by distance
Dates and details come from the organizer and can change, so confirm on the official website before you plan your trip. Venue photos come from Google. Back to all annual events
