As the holiday season approaches, people are looking for ways to get festive. Omaha has no shortage of holiday events around the city to get you in the holiday spirit.  

Thanksgiving  

1. Vala’s Thanksgiving Market – Vala’s knows Halloween, but they also know dessert. Dessert preparation can be stressful and extremely time-consuming during the already hectic Thanksgiving preparations. So, for eight years, Vala’s has opened for the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving for a pop-up market. The Market is in their exit barn/gift shop. Anything from pies to soft pretzels to cinnamon-glazed pecans are available for purchase. Online reservations for specific treats can be made for pick-up on one of those two days. 
2. 2. Omaha Turkey Trot – The tradition of running a 5K race before thanksgiving dinner is not unique to Omaha, but the city has hosted one for eight years. The race begins at 9 a.m. in the Old Market and has a one hour and 20-minute course Every runner is given a piece of merchandise and a donut at the finish line. The cost often fluctuates with discounts, but an adult race starts at $60 per person. 

Holidays 

1. Christmas at Union Station – The tradition of a large Christmas tree in Omaha’s former Union Station, now the Durham Museum, is a long-running one. The tradition dates back to the 1930s but went on hiatus until 1975 when a tree was once again brought into Union Station. The tree is harvested by local families, and there are concerts, shopping events and even Santa has been featured in the event in the past. It runs from Nov. 29- Jan.12, and tickets for ages 12 and up are $15. 
2. Boys Town Chanukah Parade — While this is a relatively recent tradition, the parade emphasizes Boys Town’s inclusive nature. In the past, the parade has consisted of a parade of cars, with rooftop Menorahs throughout Boys Town. The event usually takes place on the last night of Chanukah, which during this holiday season is Jan. 2, 2025. The dates have yet to be released for this year. 

 Arts and Performances  

1.  “A Christmas Carol” – The Omaha Community Playhouse puts on an annual production of “A Christmas Carol.” It runs from Nov. 22 to Dec. 22 and has a show every Wednesday at 7m., Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and two shows on Sundays at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The tickets cost $45, but students can get tickets for as little as $10 with a valid student ID, for select shows only. 
2. “The Nutcracker” – The 2024 season will be The American Midwest Ballet’s, formerly Ballet Nebraska, 15th time putting on this timeless Christmas classic at the Orpheum Theater in the Old Market. The cast consists of students and professional dancers from the company. The show runs on Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 14 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 15 at 2:00 p.m.