The small community of Creighton in northeastern Nebraska has been the site of a very special Christmas attraction since 1994 called SantaLand. The whole town pulls together to make it happen each year, and each year it gets a little more magical. The town of Creighton has really banded together to keep this delightful tradition alive over the years. Dedicated volunteers spend an estimated 2,000 hours every Christmas season making all of this magic happen. Let’s look at some reasons why we love this annual heartwarming event.

SantaLand began as a fun community project all the way back in 1994. In those days, only a couple of local organizations were involved in setting up the lights and booths in Bruce Park.
SantaLand/Facebook
As the years went on and SantaLand earned a place in the hearts of locals, the display continued to grow and grow.
Facebook/SantaLand
As people passed away or became unable to set up their personal lights and decorations every Christmas, those decorations were handed over to the display.
These generous donations are only a part of the magic, though.
SantaLand/Facebook
It is truly a community project, and the entire community is dedicated to keeping it up and running every year.
Hundreds of thousands of lights along with lighted figures and characters make the enchanting winter wonderland drive memorable.
Facebook/SantaLand

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An estimated 3,000 to 5,000 vehicles drive by the lighted outdoor displays every year to see the shining Christmas in Nebraska.
SantaLand/Facebook
It's a tradition for many families in the area. Even former Creighton residents who come home for the holidays look forward to seeing it.
Facebook/SantaLand
The shadowboxes are a particular favorite of visitors. Peer inside to see a Christmas scene.
Inside is a whole other level of wonderful things to do in Nebraska for Christmas.
SantaLand/Facebook
An electric train chugs through the workshop, carrying a little mailbox that will take children's letters right to Santa.
A different business or organization sponsors Santa's Workshop every evening. They provide cookies and other refreshments for hungry visitors.
SantaLand/Facebook
Don't forget to stop by to see Santa and Mrs. Claus before you leave.
SantaLand/Facebook
You can help keep the magic alive by making a free-will donation at Santa's Workshop.

For the 2023 season, it’s is open Nov. 27–Dec 31 from 6 to 10 p.m. and Mrs. Claus’ Gingerbread House & Santa’s Workshop is open Dec. 1–23 from 6 to 9 p.m. Get more information about this magical event on the Creighton website. For those who have been, please share your experience in the comments below. For another fun stop nearby, explore the Plainview Klown Doll Museum. And for some Christmas decorating ideas, shop online at Etsy.

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Christmas In Nebraska

Carolyn Harmon | October 26, 2023

What are the best Christmas attractions in Nebraska?

  • Something Special By Marilyn (204 S. Main St., Atkinson, NE): It's Christmas year-round at the special store. With four levels and a 4,400-square-foot warehouse, more than 5,000 Christmas ornaments are available for purchase, and an estimated 10,000 gift items. Browse the shelves while enjoying a cup of hot cider or coffee. If you can't find it here, it isn't anywhere. Treat yourself to the fantastic choices this store gives.

  • Historic Arbor Lodge (700 Sylvan Road, Nebraska City, NE): Enjoy vintage decorations at the former home of J. Sterling Morton, founder of Arbor Day, and his family. This gorgeous look into Nebraska history is especially fun at Christmastime when the entire mansion is decorated in seasonal greenery and decorations. Special holiday-themed displays, appropriate to the period, suit up each of the 52 rooms. You'll feel the nostalgia through the historic interpretation of the magical season. The park includes an Italian-terraced garden, an arboretum, walking trails, a tree-themed playground, and a rustic log cabin. The mansion is located on Arbor Day Farm, which boasts 260 acres of natural beauty and outdoor activities.

  • Drive-Thru Nebraska Christmas Light Show (403 Line Drive Circle, Lincoln, NE): Make time for Lincoln’s largest drive-thru Christmas lights experience at the Christmas Light Show. See the winter wonderland all lit up in sparkling lights and elaborate, holiday-themed displays showcasing your favorite holiday characters. Feel the warmth of the holiday season through the interactive light-up experience. An added bonus comes through your car speakers as the light show is synchronized to holiday music. Be sure to include this in your plans this Christmas season.

  • Comstock Christmas City: Every year right around Thanksgiving, this sweet town becomes one of the most delightful little Christmas cities around. It all started with Henry Nuxoll when he decorated his home for Christmas in 2014. From there it spread and now he and some community volunteers put on a festive display with more than 300 inflatable displays, over 100 wreaths, an assortment of backdrops, and even a stocking for every Comstock resident. What a lovely holiday story!

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1205 Main St, Creighton, NE 68729, USA