Omaha Holiday Lights festival returns to Gene Leahy Mall

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - Omaha’s Holiday Lights festival returns to the Gene Leahy Mall for the first time since 2018.

The Thanksgiving lighting ceremony signifies the start of the holiday season in Omaha.

It started Thursday night at 6 p.m. at the Gene Leahy Mall.

This is the 23rd Holiday Lights festival held in Omaha.

The festival’s executive director David Callahan was excited to see things come together.

“This is so exciting, just the idea. Being out here, the number of people that will be here, the weather cooperated, the music, the people, everything. It’s incredible. It’s been a long three years and this will be the start of many more to come,” said Callahan.

Mayor Stothert did a countdown for the tree lighting at 6 p.m. Following at 7 p.m. is the Making Spirits Bright Concert.

The lights will shine at the mall until Jan. 2.

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