There is nothing quite like Christmas in Nebraska. While most towns and cities throughout the Cornhusker State offer at least one or two holiday events and activities, some towns truly deck the halls. From breathtaking Christmas tree lighting ceremonies to extraordinary Christmas festivals in Nebraska, these towns will immediately fill you with holiday cheer. The following (in no particular order) are just a few of the best Christmas towns in Nebraska and destinations I recommend you place on your holiday bucket list.
1. Minden
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Minden must be on the list of the best Christmas towns in Nebraska. This town is known as Nebraska’s Christmas City and for good reason. Spend time at the enchanting light display that has been brightening up the town square since the early 1900s. You can also participate in a long list of holiday activities from a parade to a pageant.
2. Geneva
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The small town of Geneva offers something for everyone during the holiday season. Spend an afternoon enjoying holiday tours of homes and carriage rides around the square. You’ll find impressive Christmas light displays around town and even a few carolers. To help you remember the true meaning of the season, attend one of the many religious holiday events as well.
3. Nebraska City
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If you want to see even the grumpiest Scrooge smile, take him to Nebraska City over the holidays. This is easily one of the best Christmas towns in Nebraska as there are events all holiday season long to help you get into the season including the tree lighting at the Otoe County Courthouse, visits with Santa, and the beautiful community Advent Recital featuring local church choirs and other music groups.
4. Chadron
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Chadron, in Northwest Nebraska, knows how to celebrate the holidays. Starting with the annual Parade of Lights, there is something to put you into the holiday spirit all season long. Attend Christmas boutiques, the Festival of Trees, the annual holiday concert at Memorial Hall, and more during this festive time of year. There is plenty of things to do for Christmas in Nebraska.
5. Crawford
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We love the town of Crawford during the holidays. Here, you can welcome in the holiday spirit by attending the annual Parade of Lights and the community tree lighting events. I recommend heading to Fort Robinson State Park where you’ll see buildings adorned with holiday lights and can attend a historical Christmas dinner.
6. Kearney
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Kearney may not be a small Christmas town in Nebraska, but it certainly deserves a mention on our list. This city is magical during the holidays with long lists of events that you don’t want to miss. In fact, each weekend throughout the month of December is packed with holiday activities including breakfasts with Santa, the annual Christmas Tree Walk, Slamfest with Santa, and more. Just make sure you attend the Holiday Light Festival at Yanney Heritage Park. This may be one of our favorite Christmas festivals in Nebraska.
7. Norfolk
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You can enjoy countless Christmas traditions in Norfolk, Nebraska. This town offers all types of activities including ice skating, Christmas light displays, visits with Santa, and holiday shopping during the Main Street Christmas Stroll. Spend a day (or even a weekend) exploring and enjoying all this Christmas town has to offer — you certainly won’t be bored!
Are there other Christmas towns in Nebraska that fill your heart with holiday cheer? What do you believe is the Christmas capital of Nebraska? Are there any Christmas events in Nebraska that you never miss? What are your favorite places to go for Christmas in Nebraska? Let us and your fellow Christmas lovers know in the comments!
One of the best ways to visit many of the Christmas towns in the Cornhusker State is on a road trip. Grab some car-friendly snacks, blast some holiday tunes, and hit the road to holiday magic!
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