Illustration of a light display scene (Christmas at Union Station)
Christmas Lights

Christmas at Union Station

Visitors can view a 40-foot-tall twinkling tree installed in the museum and explore holiday traditions from around the globe. Families can visit Santa's Cabin, glide across the sock skating pond, and enjoy live holiday music. The historic venue also features cultural celebrations and hands-on activities.

What to Expect

Omaha holiday tradition featuring a 40-foot-tall twinkling tree in a historic station.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Historic Old Market

Organizer

The Durham Museum

Food & Drink

The December 4 Holiday Cultural Festival features flavors from around the globe.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with children

Vibe

Festive and traditional

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Location

The Durham Museum
801 S 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68108
Omaha, NE
68108

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Adults: $17; seniors (62+): $14; children ages 3–12: $10; children 2 years and under: free; members: free.
  • Accessibility: Electric scooters and wheelchairs are available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis at the front desk.

Tips & Advice

  • Buy tickets online ahead if you can, since advance tickets are recommended, though walk-ins are welcome and online purchases can't be refunded.
  • Aim for a Wednesday or Thursday after the lunch hour, when weekday crowds at the museum are generally lighter.
  • Come on a December Tuesday for Family Nights with Santa if your kids want to share their wish lists at Santa's Cabin.
  • Plan on paying admission even if you only want the Soda Fountain or Museum Shop, since free access to them doesn't apply during the Christmas season.
  • Leave outside food and coolers at home, because they're only allowed when needed for special dietary needs.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 27 to kick off the season.
  • Family Nights with Santa on Tuesdays, December 1, 8, 15 and 22, with visits to Santa's Cabin.
  • Holiday Cultural Festival on Friday, December 4, with sounds, traditions and flavors from around the globe.
  • Holiday Concert Series on Tuesday evenings and Saturday daytimes, November 28 to December 22.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is there to see and do?

There's a 40-foot-tall twinkling tree in the old waiting room, holiday traditions from around the globe, Santa, and the Sock Skating Pond, which is back this season.

Can kids meet Santa?

Yes. On Family Nights with Santa, Tuesdays December 1, 8, 15 and 22, kids can visit Santa's Cabin and share their wish lists.

Do I need advance tickets?

No, but they're recommended, and walk-ins are welcome. Online tickets can't be refunded, so call the museum if you need to reschedule.

How long should we allow?

The average visit is around two hours, though you could spend a whole day with the exhibits.

Can I bring food, or visit just the Soda Fountain?

Outside food, drinks and coolers aren't allowed unless needed for special dietary needs. During the Christmas season, you'll need admission to visit the Soda Fountain and Museum Shop.

Tags

holiday light displaysfamily friendlySanta visitsfestive decorationsholiday seasoncommunity celebrationseasonal activitiesholiday traditionanimated displays

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team