Christmas Events for Kids in Lincoln, NE (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

16 min read

The Lincoln, NE area has 16 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Nebraska Christmas Lights Show in Lincoln on November 19 to Make Believe Midnight in Lincoln, on December 31. 2 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Nebraska, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 16 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Lincoln, NE for 2026, in Lincoln, Hickman, Raymond and Roca
  • First: Nebraska Christmas Lights Show, Lincoln, November 19. Runs latest: Make Believe Midnight, Lincoln, through December 31
  • Free: SouthPointe Pavilions Visits with Santa and Soup With Santa at James Arthur Vineyards
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Nebraska Christmas train rides page.

Lincoln, NE Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
16 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Lincoln, Hickman, Raymond and Roca
Season
November 19 to December 31, 2026
Free events
2
Kinds of events
holiday show, holiday lights, holiday event and supper with Santa
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Lincoln, NE Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Nebraska Christmas Lights Show in Lincoln on November 19; the last runs to December 31. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Lincoln, NE? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Lincoln

13 confirmed events for kids in Lincoln, soonest first.

Lincoln: Nebraska Christmas Lights Show

Holiday lightsNebraska Christmas Lights Show · Lincoln

Host
Nebraska Christmas Lights Show (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sandhills Global Event Center, 4100 N 84th St, Lincoln, NE 68507
When
Thursday, November 19, 2026 to Sunday, December 27, 2026 (nightly during the run, see host for hours)
Cost
Price not listed
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Nebraska Christmas Lights Show runs from November 19 through December 27 at the Sandhills Global Event Center in north Lincoln. This year it adds a walk through experience: guests park the car and follow a sparkling trail to a Christmas Village with ten themed rooms, with more than one million lights synchronized to festive music.

Guests explore on foot at their own pace, room by room. The listing suggests dressing warmly because winter nights can fall below 28 degrees, wearing comfortable walking shoes and arriving a little early on weekends and holidays. Real time weather alerts are posted on the show's website. Prices and nightly hours were not listed on the visitor bureau page.

Parent tip: Dress for the cold, wear good walking shoes and check the show's site for weather alerts and hours.

See dates and details from Nebraska Christmas Lights Show (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: Zoo Lights Powered by LES

Holiday lightsLincoln Children's Zoo · Lincoln

Host
Lincoln Children's Zoo (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lincoln Children's Zoo, 1222 S 27th St, Lincoln, NE 68502
When
Friday, November 20, 2026 to Wednesday, December 30, 2026 (evenings; check zoo for nightly hours and closed dates)
Cost
Check the host's page
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Zoo Lights Powered by LES turns the Lincoln Children's Zoo into a holiday light display for its seventh year. Highlights include a 40-foot Christmas tree, a 140-foot cathedral light tunnel, more than 30 lit animal silhouettes and a vine show with 190 hanging lights. Holiday train rides are part of the experience.

Every Tuesday during the run is an LES Energy Night, with an interactive light peg display, a kid-sized LES truck cutout for photos, transmission lines made of orange lights, free light-up snap bracelets and LES volunteers on hand to answer energy questions. Tickets are sold through the zoo's Zoo Lights page, which is the place to check nightly hours and prices before you go. The event runs for about six weeks, from Nov 20 through Dec 30, so there are many evenings to choose from.

Parent tip: Buy tickets through the zoo's Zoo Lights page and check nightly hours there. Go on a Tuesday for the LES Energy Night extras.

See dates and details from Lincoln Children's Zoo (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: SouthPointe Pavilions Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration

Tree lightingSouthPointe Pavilions · Lincoln

Host
SouthPointe Pavilions (opens in a new tab)
Where
SouthPointe Pavilions, Center Court, 2910 Pine Lake Rd, Lincoln, NE 68516
When
Saturday, November 21, 2026, 5 to 7 pm
Cost
Free (no ticket listed)
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

SouthPointe Pavilions holds its annual holiday celebration on Saturday, November 21. From 5 to 6 pm a holiday character photo opportunity is set up at Center Court. At 6 pm Santa makes his entrance and the center lights its tree. A second photo opportunity with the characters runs from 6:30 to 7 pm after the lighting.

The listing notes the event is weather pending and tells families to follow SouthPointe's Facebook and Instagram pages for any updates. SouthPointe Pavilions is a shopping center at 2910 Pine Lake Road in south Lincoln. This is also a good lead in to the center's Santa visits, which begin the following weekend. Because the evening starts at 5 pm, families with small children can arrive for the early character photos and go home before bedtime, or stay for the tree lighting at 6 pm.

Parent tip: Weather can change the plan, so check SouthPointe's social pages the day of.

See dates and details from SouthPointe Pavilions (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: SouthPointe Pavilions Visits with Santa

Santa visitFreeSouthPointe Pavilions · Lincoln

Host
SouthPointe Pavilions (opens in a new tab)
Where
SouthPointe Pavilions (Von Maur, then Barnes and Noble), 2910 Pine Lake Rd, Lincoln, NE 68516
When
Fri November 27 (4 to 8 pm), Sat November 28 (1 to 5 pm), Sun November 29 (1 to 5 pm), Fri December 4 (4 to 8 pm), Sat December 5 (1 to 8 pm), Sun December 6 (1 to 5 pm), Fri December 11 (4 to 8 pm), Sat December 12 (1 to 8 pm), Sun December 13 (1 to 5 pm), Fri December 18 (4 to 8 pm), Sat December 19 (1 to 8 pm), Sun December 20 (1 to 5 pm), Mon December 21 (1 to 6 pm), Tue December 22 (1 to 6 pm), Wed December 23 (1 to 6 pm) and Thu December 24 (10 am to 2 pm), 2026
Cost
Free visits, photo packages optional
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa visits at SouthPointe Pavilions begin Friday, November 27, and run through Thursday, December 24. The first weekend Santa sits at Von Maur, where there is no professional photographer and families bring their own camera. From December 4 on he is at Barnes and Noble with a professional photographer on site. Hours are Fridays 4 to 8 pm, Saturdays 1 to 8 pm (1 to 5 pm on Nov 28) and Sundays 1 to 5 pm, with Dec 21 to 23 from 1 to 6 pm and Dec 24 from 10 am to 2 pm.

Visits are free for families who just want to say hello. If you want to take your own photos while the professional photographer is working, you need to buy at least the lowest priced photo package. Santa's Mailbox is inside SCHEELS. Questions about photos go to Vantage Imaging at ja@vantageimaging.com.

Parent tip: Bring your own camera on Nov 27 to 29 at Von Maur. At Barnes and Noble, a minimum photo package is needed to take your own pictures.

See dates and details from SouthPointe Pavilions (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: A Magical Cirque Christmas

Holiday showLied Center for Performing Arts · Lincoln

Host
Lied Center for Performing Arts (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lied Center, Johnny Carson Theater, 301 N 12th St, Lincoln, NE 68508
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026
Cost
Tickets required, price not listed
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

A Magical Cirque Christmas brings acrobatics and stunts set to favorite holiday music to the Lied Center's Johnny Carson Theater on Thursday, December 3. The listing describes an evening for all ages with nostalgia, charm and jaw dropping hand to hand and balancing acts.

The Lied Center is at 301 North 12th Street in downtown Lincoln. Showtime and ticket prices were not on the visitor bureau page, and a pre performance dinner is offered as a separate event. Check liedcenter.org for the start time and seating. The Johnny Carson Theater is the Lied Center's mid sized hall. Because the show is billed as for all ages, many families bring children, but check the Lied Center for any age guidance for babies and toddlers.

Parent tip: Look up the start time on liedcenter.org. A pre show dinner is sold separately.

See dates and details from Lied Center for Performing Arts (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: How the Grinch Stole Christmas JR

Holiday showLincoln Community Playhouse · Lincoln

Host
Lincoln Community Playhouse (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 S 56th St, Lincoln, NE 68506
When
Friday, December 4, 2026 to Sunday, December 13, 2026 (performance times at the Playhouse)
Cost
Tickets required, price not listed
Ages
Families
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Lincoln Community Playhouse presents How the Grinch Stole Christmas JR from December 4 through December 13, 2026. The musical follows the Grinch, whose heart is two sizes too small and who despises the Christmas festivities of Who-ville from a distance. He carries out a plan to stop them, then learns a lesson about the real meaning of Christmas.

The Playhouse is at 2500 South 56th Street in Lincoln. The visitor bureau listing gives the run dates but not individual show times or ticket prices, so check the Playhouse box office for performance times and seating. Youth editions of musicals are usually shorter than the full versions and are a natural first theater trip for school age kids, though the listing does not state a running time.

Parent tip: Confirm show times and buy tickets with the Playhouse.

See dates and details from Lincoln Community Playhouse (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: Lincoln Symphony Orchestra Deck the Halls

Holiday showLincoln Symphony Orchestra · Lincoln

Host
Lincoln Symphony Orchestra (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lied Center, Johnny Carson Theater, 301 N 12th St, Lincoln, NE 68508
When
Sunday, December 6, 2026
Cost
Tickets required, price not listed
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Deck the Halls is the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra's annual holiday celebration, with two performances on Sunday, December 6, for the whole family. Guest conductor Lucas Waldin leads a concert of holiday songs with jazz and soul singer Rajdulari.

The orchestra is joined by the Bell-issimo handbell choir, Lincoln Suzuki Studios, the Standing Bear High School vocal music program and the adaptive dance company Dancing Beyond Limits. The concert is at the Lied Center's Johnny Carson Theater. Times and ticket prices were not on the visitor bureau page, so check the symphony or the Lied Center for the two start times. The Lied Center is at 301 North 12th Street. Two performances give families a choice of day and time, and the involvement of young musicians from Suzuki studios and a high school makes it a good concert to bring kids to.

Parent tip: Check the symphony's site for the two show times and pick the one that suits young kids.

See dates and details from Lincoln Symphony Orchestra (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: Homeschool Day: Winter Traditions

Holiday craftsNebraska History Museum · Lincoln

Host
Nebraska History Museum (opens in a new tab)
Where
Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall N, Lincoln, NE 68508
When
Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 9 am to noon
Cost
Regular museum admission, free with membership
Ages
Pre-K to 8th grade
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Nebraska History Museum, the Great Plains Art Museum and the International Quilt Museum hold a Homeschool Day on December 9 with the theme Winter Traditions. The morning is for festive fun and learning about Nebraska's winter traditions such as holidays and winter games.

It runs from 9 am to noon. Families can spend the whole morning moving through learning stations or stop by for a short visit. Activities are designed for learners from pre-K up through eighth grade. Pre-registration is requested through the form on the museum's page, regular admission rates apply, and admission is free with a Nebraska State Historical Society membership. The Nebraska History Museum is at 131 Centennial Mall North in downtown Lincoln. You are not required to stay the whole morning, so families can fit in a shorter visit around other plans.

Parent tip: Pre-register using the form linked on the museum's listing.

See dates and details from Nebraska History Museum (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: The Nutcracker, Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company

Holiday showLincoln Midwest Ballet Company · Lincoln

Host
Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N 12th St, Lincoln, NE 68508
When
Sat December 12 and Sun December 13, 2026
Cost
Tickets from the Lied Center box office, price not listed
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company presents its 42nd season of The Nutcracker Suite at the Lied Center for Performing Arts on December 12 and 13, 2026. The company describes the production as a treasured holiday tradition, with dancing mice, marching soldiers, whirling snow and sugar plums.

Tickets went on sale October 22 at the Lied Center box office. You can call 402-472-4747 or visit liedcenter.org for performance times, seating and prices. The listing did not post showtimes, so confirm them before you plan around nap or dinner schedules. The Lied Center for Performing Arts is at 301 North 12th Street in downtown Lincoln. The production uses full scenery and costumes, and two days of performances give families some scheduling choice.

Parent tip: Call 402-472-4747 or visit liedcenter.org for showtimes and seats.

See dates and details from Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: Candy Cane Course Lincoln

Holiday eventCandy Cane Course · Lincoln

Host
Candy Cane Course (opens in a new tab)
Where
Holmes Lake, 70th St and Normal Blvd, Lincoln, NE 68506
When
Sunday, December 13, 2026, 8:55 am
Cost
Youth pricing $22 for 12 and under (5K and 10K)
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Candy Cane Course is a family friendly run at Holmes Lake on Sunday, December 13. Packet pickup is from 7:30 to 8:45 am. The Kids Dash starts at 8:55 am with participants walked out to the start line, and the main race begins at 9:00 am with the national anthem.

Registration includes a designed shirt, a custom medal, chip timing with live results, free photos and treats at the finish. Youth pricing for the 5K and 10K is $22 for ages 12 and under. The organizers say to register by midnight on the second Thursday before race day to guarantee a shirt. Dress warmly for a December morning outdoors.

Parent tip: Register by the Thursday deadline to guarantee a shirt. Dress warmly.

See dates and details from Candy Cane Course (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: Storytime With Santa

Story time with Mrs. ClausLincoln Children's Museum · Lincoln

Host
Lincoln Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lincoln Children's Museum, 1420 P St, Lincoln, NE 68508
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026
Cost
Museum admission, price not listed
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Lincoln Children's Museum lists Storytime With Santa on Saturday, December 19, 2026, at 1420 P Street. The Lincoln visitor bureau listing describes it as a Super Saturday event where Santa and Mrs. Claus make a pit stop at the museum, with a Winter Wonderland exhibit, holiday themed activities and more.

The museum's calendar shows the date as an all day event and the visitor bureau notes that more information is still to come, so exact story times and ticket details were not posted when this was checked. Contact the museum at info@lincolnchildrensmuseum.org or 402-477-4000 for times and admission details, and watch the museum calendar for updates. The museum is at 1420 P Street in downtown Lincoln, and it offers hands on exhibits across several floors for young children. Members and non-members can check the calendar for the final schedule once it is posted.

Parent tip: Hours were not final when checked, so look at the museum calendar or call 402-477-4000 before you go.

See dates and details from Lincoln Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: Santa Milk and Cookies at Miracle at Robber's Cave

Supper with SantaMiracle at Robber's Cave · Lincoln

Host
Miracle at Robber's Cave (opens in a new tab)
Where
Robber's Cave, 925 Robbers Cave Rd, Lincoln, NE 68502
When
Sunday, December 20, 2026
Cost
$7 per person
Ages
Kids
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Miracle at Robber's Cave hosts Santa Milk and Cookies on Sunday, December 20. The listing calls it perfect for the kiddos. Children can hang out with Santa, snap a photo and enjoy complimentary milk and cookies at each table while taking in Christmas music and holiday decor.

Tickets are $7 per person and are purchased through the venue's website. The event also collects donations for the third annual CEDARS Youth Services Toy Drive. If you would like to give, bring a new toy in its original packaging. Start and end times were not listed on the Visit Lincoln page, so check the ticket page for the time slot. Robber's Cave is a venue at 925 Robbers Cave Road in Lincoln, and the Miracle at Robber's Cave season includes other holiday events. Purchase tickets through the venue's website, and bring a gift if you can.

Parent tip: Bring a new, unwrapped toy in its package for the toy drive if you can. Confirm the time slot when you buy tickets.

See dates and details from Miracle at Robber's Cave (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln: Make Believe Midnight

Holiday eventLincoln Children's Museum · Lincoln

Host
Lincoln Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lincoln Children's Museum, 1420 P St, Lincoln, NE 68508
When
Thursday, December 31, 2026, 9 am to 2 pm
Cost
Price not listed
Ages
Kids and families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Make Believe Midnight is listed on the Lincoln Children's Museum event calendar for Thursday, December 31, 2026, from 9 am to 2 pm at 1420 P Street. The museum has no written description posted yet for this year's event.

The event is a museum program for children, held in the morning and early afternoon so families can celebrate New Year's without a late night. Ticket information, the schedule of activities and any countdown moments were not on the calendar page when checked, so use the museum contact at info@lincolnchildrensmuseum.org or 402-477-4000 and watch the calendar for details. The museum is a hands on space for young children, and a daytime countdown can be an easier option for families with preschoolers. Check back on the museum calendar, where related camps and closed dates are also listed.

Parent tip: Details were not posted when checked, so confirm the schedule and tickets with the museum.

See dates and details from Lincoln Children's Museum (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Hickman

1 confirmed event for kids in Hickman, soonest first.

Hickman: Disney's Frozen at The Nebraska Communities Playhouse

Holiday showThe Nebraska Communities Playhouse · Hickman

Host
The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (opens in a new tab)
Where
The Nebraska Communities Playhouse, 217 Locust St, Hickman, NE 68372 (near Lincoln)
When
Friday, December 4, 2026 to Sunday, December 6, 2026 (performance times at the Playhouse)
Cost
Tickets required, price not listed
Ages
Families
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Nebraska Communities Playhouse in Hickman presents Disney's Frozen from Friday, December 4, through Sunday, December 6. The Broadway adaptation follows Anna, Elsa and the residents of Arendelle through fear, friendship and the kind of love that changes everything, with the score's showstoppers and added songs.

Hickman is a small town just south of Lincoln. The visitor bureau listing gave the dates but not showtimes or prices, so check the Playhouse for performance times and tickets. A winter story like this one can be a good fit for families with kids who love the film. The Playhouse is at 217 Locust Street in Hickman, a short drive south of Lincoln. A two hour musical may be long for the youngest viewers, so consider your child's age when choosing a show.

Parent tip: Check the Playhouse for showtimes and tickets.

See dates and details from The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Raymond

1 confirmed event for kids in Raymond, soonest first.

Raymond: Soup With Santa at James Arthur Vineyards

Supper with SantaFreeJames Arthur Vineyards · Raymond

Host
James Arthur Vineyards (opens in a new tab)
Where
James Arthur Vineyards, 2001 W Raymond Rd, Raymond, NE 68428 (near Lincoln)
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026
Cost
Free admission, soup lunch benefits charity
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

James Arthur Vineyards in Raymond hosts Soup With Santa on Saturday, December 19. The visitor bureau listing says the soup lunch benefits charity, the afternoon includes live music, and admission is free.

The vineyard is a short drive northwest of Lincoln at 2001 West Raymond Road. The listing is brief, so ask the vineyard about the serving hours, how long Santa will be there and whether the soup lunch has a suggested donation. The winery also holds a holiday cookie decorating class on December 12 for $25 per person. The cookie decorating class on December 12 is a separate ticketed event, with Susie Fauble of Susie's Cottage Kitchen leading the class in the party room.

Parent tip: Call or check the vineyard's site for serving times and donation details.

See dates and details from James Arthur Vineyards (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Roca

1 confirmed event for kids in Roca, soonest first.

Roca: Feztival of Trees

Santa and Mrs. ClausSesostris Shrine Center · Roca

Host
Sesostris Shrine Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sesostris Shrine Center, 1050 Saltillo Rd, Roca, NE 68430 (near Lincoln)
When
Saturday, November 21, 2026 to Saturday, November 28, 2026 (closed Thanksgiving Day)
Cost
$2 admission, children 12 and under free with an adult
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Feztival of Trees at the Sesostris Shrine Center in Roca features more than 30 decorated Christmas trees to view, each worth $500 to $2,500 and raffled to a lucky winner for $1 per ticket. The listing calls it a family friendly event running November 21 to 28, closed on Thanksgiving. Note that the visitor bureau page lists the event end date as the 25th in its header while the description says the 28th, so confirm the last day.

Kids can have photos taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus using the family's own camera, write letters to Santa and go fishing in Prancer's Pond for prizes. There is a Mistletoe Cafe with hot cocoa and cookies, plus face painting and working train sets. Admission is $2, and children 12 and under are free with an adult admission.

Parent tip: Bring your own camera for Santa photos and confirm the last day of the run.

See dates and details from Sesostris Shrine Center (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our Nebraska Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Omaha. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Lincoln, NE Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Lincoln, NE in 2026?

We confirmed 16 Christmas events for kids in Lincoln, NE for 2026 on each host’s own page: Nebraska Christmas Lights Show in Lincoln (November 19), Zoo Lights Powered by LES in Lincoln (November 20), Feztival of Trees in Roca (November 21), SouthPointe Pavilions Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration in Lincoln (November 21), SouthPointe Pavilions Visits with Santa in Lincoln (November 27), A Magical Cirque Christmas in Lincoln (December 3), Disney's Frozen at The Nebraska Communities Playhouse in Hickman (December 4), How the Grinch Stole Christmas JR in Lincoln (December 4), Lincoln Symphony Orchestra Deck the Halls in Lincoln (December 6), Homeschool Day: Winter Traditions in Lincoln (December 9), The Nutcracker, Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company in Lincoln (December 12), Candy Cane Course Lincoln in Lincoln (December 13), Soup With Santa at James Arthur Vineyards in Raymond (December 19), Storytime With Santa in Lincoln (December 19), Santa Milk and Cookies at Miracle at Robber's Cave in Lincoln (December 20) and Make Believe Midnight in Lincoln (December 31). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Lincoln, Nebraska?

For families in and around Lincoln, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Nebraska Christmas Lights Show (Nov 19 to Dec 27, price not listed); Zoo Lights Powered by LES (Nov 20 to Dec 30, 2026, see the host for cost); SouthPointe Pavilions Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration (Sat, Nov 21, 5 to 7 pm, free (no ticket listed)); SouthPointe Pavilions Visits with Santa (Fridays to Sundays from Nov 27, plus Dec 21 to 24; see times, free visits, photo packages optional); A Magical Cirque Christmas (Thu, Dec 3, tickets required, price not listed); How the Grinch Stole Christmas JR (Dec 4 to Dec 13, tickets required, price not listed); Lincoln Symphony Orchestra Deck the Halls (Sun, Dec 6 (two performances), tickets required, price not listed); Homeschool Day: Winter Traditions (Wed, Dec 9, 9 am to noon, regular museum admission, free with membership); The Nutcracker, Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company (Sat, Dec 12 and Sun, Dec 13, tickets from the lied center box office, price not listed); Candy Cane Course Lincoln (Sun, Dec 13, race at 9 am, Kids Dash 8:55 am, youth pricing $22 for 12 and under (5k and 10k)); Storytime With Santa (Sat, Dec 19 (hours to be announced), museum admission, price not listed); Santa Milk and Cookies at Miracle at Robber's Cave (Sun, Dec 20, $7 per person); Make Believe Midnight (Thu, Dec 31, 9 am to 2 pm, price not listed). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Lincoln section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Hickman, Nebraska?

For families in and around Hickman, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Disney's Frozen at The Nebraska Communities Playhouse (Fri, Dec 4 to Sun, Dec 6, tickets required, price not listed). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Hickman section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Raymond, Nebraska?

For families in and around Raymond, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Soup With Santa at James Arthur Vineyards (Sat, Dec 19, free admission, soup lunch benefits charity). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Raymond section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Roca, Nebraska?

For families in and around Roca, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Feztival of Trees (Nov 21 to Nov 28 (closed Thanksgiving), $2 admission, children 12 and under free with an adult). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Roca section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Lincoln, NE?

Yes. 2 of the 16 events here are free: SouthPointe Pavilions Visits with Santa in Lincoln and Soup With Santa at James Arthur Vineyards in Raymond. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Lincoln, NE this December?

Santa appears at Feztival of Trees in Roca (November 21), SouthPointe Pavilions Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration in Lincoln (November 21), SouthPointe Pavilions Visits with Santa in Lincoln (November 27), Soup With Santa at James Arthur Vineyards in Raymond (December 19), Storytime With Santa in Lincoln (December 19) and Santa Milk and Cookies at Miracle at Robber's Cave in Lincoln (December 20). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Lincoln, NE?

Holiday story times on this page: Storytime With Santa in Lincoln. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in Lincoln, NE?

Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Soup With Santa at James Arthur Vineyards in Raymond (Sat, Dec 19) and Santa Milk and Cookies at Miracle at Robber's Cave in Lincoln (Sun, Dec 20). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.

Are there kids' Christmas events in Lincoln, NE on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: Nebraska Christmas Lights Show in Lincoln (through December 27), Zoo Lights Powered by LES in Lincoln (through December 30), SouthPointe Pavilions Visits with Santa in Lincoln (through December 24) and Make Believe Midnight in Lincoln (through December 31).

How much is Nebraska Christmas Lights Show in Lincoln?

Price not listed. Nebraska Christmas Lights Show is on Thursday, November 19, 2026 to Sunday, December 27, 2026 (nightly during the run, see host for hours) at Sandhills Global Event Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

When is Zoo Lights Powered by LES in Lincoln in 2026?

Friday, November 20, 2026 to Wednesday, December 30, 2026 (evenings; check zoo for nightly hours and closed dates), at Lincoln Children's Zoo. The host has not posted a price on its page, so check there before you go.

How much is Feztival of Trees in Roca?

$2 admission, children 12 and under free with an adult. Feztival of Trees is on Saturday, November 21, 2026 to Saturday, November 28, 2026 (closed Thanksgiving Day) at Sesostris Shrine Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is SouthPointe Pavilions Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration in Lincoln?

Free (no ticket listed). SouthPointe Pavilions Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration is on Saturday, November 21, 2026, 5 to 7 pm at SouthPointe Pavilions, Center Court. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is SouthPointe Pavilions Visits with Santa in Lincoln?

Free visits, photo packages optional. SouthPointe Pavilions Visits with Santa is on Fri November 27 (4 to 8 pm), Sat November 28 (1 to 5 pm), Sun November 29 (1 to 5 pm), Fri December 4 (4 to 8 pm), Sat December 5 (1 to 8 pm), Sun December 6 (1 to 5 pm), Fri December 11 (4 to 8 pm), Sat December 12 (1 to 8 pm), Sun December 13 (1 to 5 pm), Fri December 18 (4 to 8 pm), Sat December 19 (1 to 8 pm), Sun December 20 (1 to 5 pm), Mon December 21 (1 to 6 pm), Tue December 22 (1 to 6 pm), Wed December 23 (1 to 6 pm) and Thu December 24 (10 am to 2 pm), 2026 at SouthPointe Pavilions (Von Maur, then Barnes and Noble). Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is A Magical Cirque Christmas in Lincoln?

Tickets required, price not listed. A Magical Cirque Christmas is on Thursday, December 3, 2026 at Lied Center, Johnny Carson Theater. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Disney's Frozen at The Nebraska Communities Playhouse in Hickman?

Tickets required, price not listed. Disney's Frozen at The Nebraska Communities Playhouse is on Friday, December 4, 2026 to Sunday, December 6, 2026 (performance times at the Playhouse) at The Nebraska Communities Playhouse. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is How the Grinch Stole Christmas JR in Lincoln?

Tickets required, price not listed. How the Grinch Stole Christmas JR is on Friday, December 4, 2026 to Sunday, December 13, 2026 (performance times at the Playhouse) at Lincoln Community Playhouse. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Lincoln Symphony Orchestra Deck the Halls in Lincoln?

Tickets required, price not listed. Lincoln Symphony Orchestra Deck the Halls is on Sunday, December 6, 2026 at Lied Center, Johnny Carson Theater. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Homeschool Day: Winter Traditions in Lincoln?

Regular museum admission, free with membership. Homeschool Day: Winter Traditions is on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 9 am to noon at Nebraska History Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is The Nutcracker, Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company in Lincoln?

Tickets from the Lied Center box office, price not listed. The Nutcracker, Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company is on Sat December 12 and Sun December 13, 2026 at Lied Center for Performing Arts. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Candy Cane Course Lincoln in Lincoln?

Youth pricing $22 for 12 and under (5K and 10K). Candy Cane Course Lincoln is on Sunday, December 13, 2026, 8:55 am at Holmes Lake. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Soup With Santa at James Arthur Vineyards in Raymond?

Free admission, soup lunch benefits charity. Soup With Santa at James Arthur Vineyards is on Saturday, December 19, 2026 at James Arthur Vineyards. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Storytime With Santa in Lincoln?

Museum admission, price not listed. Storytime With Santa is on Saturday, December 19, 2026 at Lincoln Children's Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Milk and Cookies at Miracle at Robber's Cave in Lincoln?

$7 per person. Santa Milk and Cookies at Miracle at Robber's Cave is on Sunday, December 20, 2026 at Robber's Cave. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Make Believe Midnight in Lincoln?

Price not listed. Make Believe Midnight is on Thursday, December 31, 2026, 9 am to 2 pm at Lincoln Children's Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Lincoln, NE?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Lincoln, NE Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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