Lincoln Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Lincoln and nearby
The Christmas season transforms the area around Lincoln with twinkling lights and community gatherings. Historic streets fill with the spirit of the holidays, featuring parades winding through downtowns, elaborate light displays gracing neighborhoods, and lively tree lighting ceremonies marking the start of festivities. Local businesses open their doors for special shopping events, while theaters and performance halls host heartwarming concerts and shows.
You'll find cherished traditions like the Downtown Holiday Celebration in Roseville, the Historic Folsom Community Christmas Tree Lighting, and the vibrant Holiday Lights at Fab 40s and Dovewood Court in Sacramento. The River Fox Train offers a magical journey, and the Historic Folsom Ice Rink provides classic winter fun. This list covers a wide array of ways to celebrate the season nearby.
Browse Christmas Near Lincoln by Category
Christmas Markets
Victorian holiday street festival with gas lamps, carolers, and artisan vendors.
Christmas Shows
Live accompaniment by the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera.
Christmas Lights
Holiday celebration with Santa visits, stage performances, and tree lighting ceremony.
Christmas Giving Opportunities
Holiday dancing open house with admission by toy donation.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Annual community tree lighting with Santa visits, live entertainment, and ice skating.
Editor's Picks
-
Sacramento Ballet's The Nutcracker
· Sacramento
Live accompaniment by the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera.
-
Folsom Christmas Craft Fair
· Folsom
57th annual juried craft fair with 200+ artisans
-
Cordova Community Christmas Tree Lighting
· Rancho Cordova
Community tree lighting with real snow and fireworks
-
Hangtown Christmas Parade
· El Dorado Hills
47th Annual 'Old Fashioned Cowboy Christmas' Parade
-
Historic Folsom Community Christmas Tree Lighting
· Folsom
Annual community tree lighting with Santa visits, live entertainment, and ice skating.
-
El Dorado Hills Fire Department Santa Run
· El Dorado Hills
El Dorado Hills holiday tradition and charity drive for over 60 years.
Events Happening Soon
Lincoln Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Lincoln Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Lincoln?
The Nebraska Christmas Lights Show at Star City Shores and the Magical Lights of Lincoln at the Sandhills Global Event Center are among the biggest annual holiday events in Lincoln, drawing families and visitors for festive light displays.
What holiday traditions are unique to Lincoln?
Lincoln embraces community-focused holiday traditions, including neighborhood light displays and family-run light shows like Magical Lights, which started as a local passion project and grew into a major event.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Lincoln?
Neighborhoods in Northeast Lincoln and areas near the Sandhills Global Event Center are known for their festive holiday lights and neighborhood displays, offering charming walkable routes.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Lincoln?
Local community centers and event venues near Lincoln host Christmas markets featuring local artisans and vendors. Checking local event calendars will help you find current markets and craft fairs.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Lincoln?
Exploring neighborhood light displays and attending free community markets are budget-friendly ways to enjoy the holiday season in Lincoln without admission fees.
What are good picks for families with kids in Lincoln?
Families will enjoy the drive-through Nebraska Christmas Lights Show for a cozy experience and the walk-through Magical Lights of Lincoln for interactive holiday fun, along with local markets offering kid-friendly activities.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
Mozart's Lake Austin Festival of Lights
📍 Austin , TX , United States
Synchronized holiday light displays and live music on Lake Austin
View Event Details →