Winter is the perfect time for people to grab their hats, mittens, and a cup of hot chocolate to participate in local festivities. Whether people are celebrating the holidays with friends or family members, Lincoln has several ways to get involved.

Zoo Lights Powered by LES is open from November 24 through December 30, 2023, excluding Christmas and Christmas Eve. Taking place at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, tickets cost $14.95 with a discounted price of $11.95 for zoo members. Zoo Lights is one of the largest light displays in Nebraska, and is fun for all ages. This event also has train rides, s’mores, and hot cocoa!

“The best part of zoo lights was when you put on your (3D) glasses and all the lights look like snowflakes,” junior Karlee Waegli said. “It’s a super fun winter activity and I think everyone should get a chance to go.”

This year is the first annual Roca Merry Farm, an event that includes a holiday shopping market with local vendors, live reindeer, free santa photos, and food and drinks. For an additional cost, there is a haunted house to travel through designed specifically for the holiday season. This event takes place at Roca Berry Farm in Roca, NE on December 5-16 at 4:00-9:00.

For people looking to support locals when giving for the holidays, Love, The Locals is the perfect event. On December 9 and 10 at Canoyer Garden Center, this holiday market consists of live music, drinks, food trucks, over 70 local businesses, and a photo booth.

“For Christmas, I love to support local businesses, and this is the perfect event to do that,” Michelle Svehla said. “I feel happy buying gifts for people while also supporting small business owners.”