Five great spots for spectacular holiday lights in Lincoln (and nearby)

Tower Square is one block south of UNL's city campus at the corner of 13th and P Streets.
Tower Square is one block south of UNL's city campus at the corner of 13th and P Streets.

Outdoor holiday light displays are a mainstay of the winter season. Luckily the twinkling lights and lawn decorations can entertain us from the comfort of a vehicle so we can while avoid crowds during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Check out this interactive Google map to explore nearly 100 of the best light displays in Lincoln and nearby. This tool is a perfect way to find spots close to your home or in your favorite area of town. 2020 is one of the map's biggest years yet, so don't miss the numerous displays. Here are some of our favorite displays.

In Lincoln:

  • Tower Square, 1300 P Street
    This downtown plaza is one block south of UNL's city campus, at the corner of 13th and P Streets. The namesake tall colored-glass tower that illuminates the spot year-round is joined by holiday light displays on the adjacent buildings and trees.

  • 1660 S Cotner Blvd
    One block west off S 48th Street and Bryan Medical Center East Campus, this huge yard display features massive decorated trees, a multitude of lights and dozens of holiday figurines. Drive by for a festive show that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

  • 2765 Arlington Ave
    Figurines depicting characters and locations from all around the world make this holiday display one-of-a-kind. There are also many characters from popular holiday movies featured in this yard, so there is something for everyone. This display goes right up to the street, so everything is easy to see.

  • 5810 S 88th St
    This large display covers a ton of area and showcases inflatable scenes, light-up figures and more. This blinking lights at this home are even synced to a radio station, so as you drive by turn on FM 97.3 to enjoy the full musical experience.

  • 5521 Pawnee St
    This yard show is filled to the brim with glowing features. Drive by to soak in the many trees, stars and characters shown within this home display. The bright spectacle is sure to lighten your spirits and help you enjoy the beauty of holiday lights.

Nearby Lincoln
A 30-minute car drive northwest from downtown Lincoln is Nebraska's largest holiday light show: the Magical Lights of Seward. You can purchase tickets by the vehicle for this drive-through event at the Seward Fairgrounds. The massive displays can't be found anywhere else and includes a large Husker-themed section.

Online
You never have to leave your home to enjoy a light show. There are also completely virtual options to still experience your favorite holiday lights. Take advantage of YouTube to watch this spectacular 2019 light show, or this recent light show made entirely of drones.



Related: Check out these holiday lights displays in Lincoln

Related: One map with the best holiday light displays in town, all thanks to Phillip