KETV Family Festival 2025 in Omaha, Nebraska: A Holiday Event Featuring Free Admission, Family Activities, and Trolley Service to Six Key Locations

Published on December 8, 2025

The KETV Family Festival 2025 in Omaha, Nebraska is an event that promises to bring joy, excitement, and holiday cheer to families across the region. Hosted annually, this event transforms Omaha’s downtown into a festive wonderland, offering a wealth of holiday activities at six key locations in the city. From museum tours to special activities for children and families, the festival brings together the best of holiday spirit, community engagement, and cultural enrichment in one convenient package. With free admission and trolley service connecting all six locations, the event has quickly become a highlight of the holiday season in Omaha, making it an important date for tourists and locals alike.

For visitors seeking a fun-filled family experience in Omaha, the KETV Family Festival offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist visiting Omaha during the holiday season, this event provides an immersive holiday experience that reflects the city’s strong sense of community, culture, and festive spirit.

A Day of Free Holiday Activities Across Omaha

Held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays, the festival spans multiple venues, each offering unique events and activities for families to enjoy. These six key locations—each integral to the city’s cultural and community landscape—serve as the perfect backdrop for a day of holiday fun. The free admission policy ensures that families of all backgrounds can come together to celebrate without the worry of high costs, making it an inclusive event for people of all ages and demographics.

The festival’s structure, with its trolley service connecting all six participating locations, offers a seamless way for families to explore different activities throughout the day. The service ensures that visitors can easily travel between locations without the hassle of parking or navigating the city on foot, encouraging them to experience everything the festival has to offer.

Six Key Festival Locations to Explore

The six participating locations in the KETV Family Festival 2025 offer diverse experiences, ensuring there is something for everyone. Each site provides a unique opportunity for cultural immersion, entertainment, and learning, making the festival a great way to discover Omaha’s vibrant attractions while enjoying the festive season.

1. Omaha Children’s Museum
   Located at 500 S. 20th St., the Omaha Children’s Museum is one of the central attractions during the festival. Known for its engaging, interactive exhibits, the museum offers a wide variety of holiday-themed activities, including hands-on workshops, art stations, and performances. Children and families can explore educational exhibits while celebrating the holiday season in a fun and interactive environment.
2. Omaha Public Library
   At 1401 Jones St., the Omaha Public Library is another key stop on the festival route. During the festival, the library hosts special readings, holiday storytelling sessions, and creative workshops designed to engage young minds in the spirit of the season. It’s a perfect spot for those who love books and storytelling to enjoy a quieter yet equally festive part of the event.
3. OPD Mounted Patrol Barn
   Located at 615 Leavenworth St., the OPD Mounted Patrol Barn is a beloved Omaha institution. During the festival, this location offers family-friendly activities, including opportunities to meet the police horses, learn about their role in the community, and take part in seasonal crafts and activities. This unique stop combines community engagement with a holiday twist.
4. The Durham Museum
   Situated at 801 S. 10th St., The Durham Museum offers a historical perspective on Omaha’s past and present. During the festival, visitors can explore the museum’s seasonal exhibits and enjoy holiday-themed displays showcasing Omaha’s history and culture. The museum also hosts holiday performances and other entertainment, making it a wonderful stop for families interested in history and culture.
5. The RiverFront
   The RiverFront, located at 8th St. and Farnam St., is a central gathering place during the festival. This area hosts an array of outdoor activities, including holiday light displays, seasonal performances, and festive games. Families can enjoy the scenic views of the Missouri River while participating in fun, interactive activities and watching live performances.
6. The Joslyn Museum
   Finally, the Joslyn Museum, at 2200 Dodge St., adds an artistic flair to the festival. This museum is known for its exceptional collection of American and Native American art. During the festival, visitors can explore special exhibits, enjoy holiday concerts, and participate in art-making activities. It’s a fantastic stop for families who enjoy both art and culture during the holiday season.

The Growing Appeal of Omaha’s KETV Family Festival

Over the years, the KETV Family Festival has become a staple of the holiday calendar in Omaha, and it is growing in both size and appeal. For tourists visiting Omaha during the holiday season, the festival is a must-visit event that captures the essence of the city’s community spirit and diversity. As the event continues to grow, it is expected to draw in more visitors, both from neighboring regions and from afar, helping to boost the city’s local tourism industry.

The festival’s trolley service makes it an easy event to navigate, and the fact that it’s held across six well-known locations helps spread out the crowds, creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone. Whether you’re visiting from out of town or are a local resident, the KETV Family Festival offers a comprehensive experience that brings together family activities, holiday traditions, and Omaha’s rich cultural offerings in one festive celebration.

Cultural Tourism and the Holiday Spirit in Omaha

Omaha is rapidly becoming an attractive destination for cultural tourism, especially during the holiday season. Events like the KETV Family Festival 2025 are playing a pivotal role in this transformation, offering visitors the chance to experience the warmth and spirit of the city’s diverse community. The festival also serves as a reminder of how holiday events can boost the local economy by drawing tourists, providing families with the chance to explore everything Omaha has to offer.

For holiday travelers, the KETV Family Festival is an excellent opportunity to experience the unique culture and warmth of Omaha, combining festive activities with family-friendly entertainment. In addition to the festival itself, visitors can also explore other attractions in the city, such as the Old Market District, Henry Doorly Zoo, and Lauritzen Gardens, making Omaha a well-rounded destination for those looking to celebrate the holiday season in a welcoming environment.

A Look Ahead: The Future of Omaha’s Holiday Celebrations

As the KETV Family Festival continues to grow in size and scope, it is becoming clear that Omaha’s holiday tourism will only become more prominent. With its emphasis on family-friendly activities, community engagement, and free admission, the festival has carved out a space for itself as one of the city’s most important annual events. The festival’s focus on inclusivity and its ability to attract visitors from all walks of life make it a model for local cultural festivals across the country.

In the future, it is expected that the KETV Family Festival will continue to expand, offering even more opportunities for families and tourists to experience the best of Omaha during the holiday season. The festival’s trolley service, diverse range of activities, and central location ensure that it will remain an easy and enjoyable event for all, making Omaha a destination of choice for those seeking holiday fun and community spirit.

Conclusion: The KETV Family Festival – A Gift to Omaha’s Tourism

The KETV Family Festival 2025 is a shining example of how holiday events can foster community unity, enhance the tourism industry, and create lasting memories for families. With its free admission, family-friendly activities, and the easy accessibility provided by the trolley service, the festival has become a key event in Omaha’s holiday tourism calendar. As Omaha continues to develop as a cultural tourism hub, the KETV Family Festival will undoubtedly remain at the heart of the city’s festive celebrations, drawing visitors year after year to experience the holiday magic of this midwestern gem.