Outdoor holiday light displays are a mainstay of the winter season. The twinkling lights and lawn decorations can entertain from the comfort of a vehicle or in the brisk outside air. Read through our compiled list of the best sites around Lincoln for a variety of displays and themes.
Check out this interactive Google map to explore the best light displays in and around Lincoln. This tool is a perfect way to find spots close to your home or in your favorite area of town.
Along R Street and N 16th Street on City Campus
You don't have to go far to start your viewing of lights. Stroll these two campus streets to see the festive light displays installed on the numerous sorority and fraternity chapter houses. We suggest you begin at the Nebraska Union, where you can grab a hot beverage at Starbucks to enjoy while you and your friends check out the lights.
Tower Square
This downtown plaza is one block south of 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. This spot is just a quick 5-minute walk from campus, so don't miss out.
S 17th and Calvert Street
Tune to FM 93.1 for a music-synced light show, complete with live Santa visits from 6– 8 p.m. on Saturday evenings.
S 27th and Arlington Avenue
Figurines depicting characters and locations from all around the world make this holiday display one-of-a-kind. There alsoare 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.
S Cotner Blvd and Sumner Street
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.
Sheridan Boulevard
One house on the gorgeous Sheridan Boulevard is registered on the holiday lights map, but the whole of this meandering street is worth a visit. The Sheridan area is known for being one of the most picturesque drives in Lincoln, and always looks warm and festive during the holiday season. Check out the registered light display home on your way through admiring the entire area.
Zoo Lights at the Lincoln Children's Zoo
Whether you drive by on S 27th Street and Capitol Parkway or stop in and purchase a ticket, you'll get to admire the new additions to the zoo's festive holiday decor. Attractions this year include a 60-foot lighted tunnel and a 40-foot tree.
Magical Lights of Seward
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 vehicle for this drive-through event at the Seward Fairgrounds. The massive displays can't be found anywhere else and even include a large Husker-themed section.
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 2020 light show, or this recent light show made entirely of drones.
Want more festive recommendations?
Check out this list from the Lincoln Journal Star to discover special shows and events around town this season.