Each winter, Omaha transforms into a glowing postcard with lights reflecting off riverfront waters, families braving the cold to celebrate the season. In 2024, the city celebrated 25 years of its beloved Holiday Lights Festival, surpassing its goal of 5 million meals in its Shine the Light on Hunger campaign.
Festivities kick off at The RiverFront’s Gene Leahy Mall, where thousands gather for the Lighting Ceremony and live music before navigating 72 acres of illuminated pathways and exploring the Old Market’s shops and restaurants.
Downtown, North Omaha and South Omaha twinkle with warm light displays, the RiverFront enhancing the experience with a multimedia light show. The detail and dedication of the community demonstrate how a small local tradition has grown into a signature celebration.
Community remains at the heart of it all. Families ride Ollie the Trolley to museums, libraries and even the Mounted Patrol Barn during the annual KETV Family Festival, enjoying scavenger hunts, crafts, cocoa and visits with Santa, all free of charge.
Closing out the season is a STAR 104.5 light show that plays in sync to the station's soundtrack as part of the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular.
Throughout the celebration, Omaha opens both its doors and its heart. The Shine the Light on Hunger campaign rallies the city to support Food Bank for the Heartland, encouraging grocery donations, volunteerism and matched financial gifts. Led by Conagra Brands Foundation, the 2024 5-million-meal goal was met, helping feed neighbors across the region.
This holiday season, the need for food security in our community is higher than ever. Now in the 26th year of the Holiday Lights Festival and the 19th year of the Shine the Light on Hunger campaign, Omaha is preparing to reach a meal goal of 6 million meals this year.
In 2025, the holiday magic returns with the Lighting Ceremony on November 29. The displays in Omaha will shine through January 10, and the Old Market through January 1.
Families can look forward to the KETV Family Festival on December 7, with free access to hands-on holiday experiences, while the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular on December 31 will provide a display to remember for years to come.
Shine the Light on Hunger returns November 15–December 31, continuing its mission to nourish the Heartland. Even in a season of sparkle, giving back remains the most radiant tradition of all.
Omaha’s holiday lights brighten the skyline while shining a light on what matters most: community, tradition and the power of people coming together for something bigger.
Whether you are strolling through the Old Market, soaking in shimmering views along The RiverFront or admiring the glow across historic stretches of the city, the 2025 Holiday Lights Festival promises another season of joy and camaraderie.
Visit www.holidaylightsfestival.org for more information on events and to donate to Shine the Light on Hunger.
Opening Lighting Ceremony, Nov. 29, at 6 p.m.; displays through early January; KETV Family Festival, Dec. 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and New Year’s Eve Fireworks, 7 p.m., Dec. 31. All events are free, downtown Omaha.