OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — The Holiday Lights Festival in downtown Omaha is approaching it's 20th year this winter. There will be a new twist this year, however; due to construction in the Gene Leahy Mall, this year's lights will shine from the Old Market and surrounding streets.
White lights and garland will be lining the streets from mid-November through New Year's Eve, with added special events as part of the "Holidays in the Old Market." The lights will span from 10th-13th streets, and from Harney to Jackson Streets.
The traditional Thanksgiving Evening Lighting Ceremony and Making Spirits Bright concert is not happening this year, either, but the city will still enjoy the Holiday Lights Festival's other events:
- The Family Festival on December 1 will be presented in partnership with Downtown Omaha's arts and cultural community. This year's participating venues are still being finalized.
- The New Year's Eve Fireworks Spectacular will take place in a new downtown location. The public will gather in MECA Lot B near the CHI Health Center for an up-close view of the fireworks display.
- "Sounds of the Season" will fill the Old Market on Saturday evenings from mid-November through December, featuring performances by area choral groups and musicians.
- The Capitol District Ice Rink will return this year, with a portion of the admission fee benefitting Food Bank for the Heartland as part of the "Shine the Light on Hunger" campaign.
For more information, visit the Holiday Lights Festival website.
