WELCOME!
Welcome one and all. This year has gone by so fast and we have learned so much. But we’re not ready to say goodbye to 2022 just yet. For we have the best season of the year ahead of us. It’s the time for giving, and the time for joy. The time to be grateful for what we have and more. We are joyous to be bringing you the Winter edition of our Omaha Area Family Fun Guide. This year we bring new joys and wonders for all. There is something here for all –whether you’re big or small. There is a lot of inherent magic
in this season and we tried the best to capture it for you, our readers.
You can take your family to experience the magic of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella or you can take them to visit Santa Claus. Visit the Poinsettia show or the festival of trees. There’s so much for you to see and so much for you to delight in this holiday season.
From our family to ours we want to wish you a happy holiday season.
DISCLAIMER:
©2022 Family Fun in Omaha, All rights reserved. We are not responsible for errors and omissions, or changes since publication. Reproduction in whole or in part granted only by written permission of the publisher.
OMAHA AREA FUN THINGS TO DO THIS WINTER
LOCAL HOLIDAY EVENTS
CHRISTMAS AT UNION STATION
November 24, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Time to trim the tree, bake some cookies, wrap those presents and, of course, visit The Durham Museum! Christmas at Union Station, presented by FNBO, is back for another year of festive fun. The magic of Christmas continues at The Durham Museum and we hope you will join us! This long-standing tradition features Omaha’s official Christmas tree, holiday concerts and Santa himself.
RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S "CINDERELLA"
Nov. 25 – Dec. 28 (times vary), $27
Do you want your family to experience the magic of theater? Well the Rose Theater is taking on Cinderella this season.
Celebrate the season with The Rose Theater’s fantastically frosty take on Rodgers & Hammerstein’s "Cinderella." This new holiday production of the beloved Broadway musical will whisk you away to a wintery wonderland, where your family will find the familiar fable of Cinderella; a young woman who overcomes the frozen hearts of her family with the warmth of her hope and determination – and of course, a little help from her Fairy Godmother! With sparkling sets, cozy costumes, and snowy special effects, this princess tale will prove to be the perfect present for everyone on your nice list this holiday season
Dec. 10: ASL show
Dec. 17: Sensory-friendly show
Location: The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St., Omaha, NE.
3 TIPS TO AVOID TRAVEL SCAMS
(Family Features)
The internet brings vacations and getaways to travelers’ fingertips, but instant access also means vulnerability to fraudsters looking to steal data. Scams such as fake phone numbers on popular search engine results can lead to stolen money or sensitive personal information like credit card details.
Next time you search the web to book that long-awaited vacation, consider these tips from the experts at Expedia to spot, avoid and report scams.
IDENTIFY COMMON SCAMS
• Search engine and gift card scams: Fraudsters will buy fake ads with illegitimate contact information for wellknown companies to pose as agents and ensnare people searching for online support numbers. These imposters often request gift cards in exchange for services such as a trip refund or flight change, wire transfers or sensitive personal information. They may even use personal data obtained
from unaware customers to use an itinerary look-up tool and view real trip details in order to gain additional trust.
• Phone call scams: Scammers will sometimes use “spoofing” technology to make telephone numbers appear legitimate then claim a customer won a prize such as cash, a trip or credit for future travel from a trusted travel company. In exchange, these convincing scammers may ask for personal information including a name, address, payment information and social security number.
• Email scams: Phishing is a scam criminals use to ask for personal information via email by tricking recipients into clicking a link, opening an attachment or directly providing the information. When they appear to come from established businesses or organizations, the emails can be quite convincing, as they sometimes even link to legitimate-looking websites.
WHEN IN DOUBT, END THE CONVERSATION
If you think you’ve received a fraudulent phone call or are in contact with an imposter, hang up or end the conversation immediately.
Do not click any suspicious links or engage further. Double check the sender’s address and delete any suspicious emails. Take note of how you came into contact, such as the phone number you dialed, the contact information displayed and any other identifying information provided by the scammer.
Contact representatives of the company the scammer claimed to represent along with the Federal Trade Commission and state attorney general.
TRUST THE EXPERTS
With a trusted travel group like Expedia, your experience and safety are the top priorities, meaning representatives won’t request a gift card in exchange for services, call or send an email asking for account passwords, request personal information unrelated to a previous service issue or request wire transfers or payment information through text messages.
If you need help with your trip, visit Expedia.com or use the mobile app for self-service tools like a 24/7 virtual agent so you can easily change or cancel trips, redeem credits and check on the status of a refund, all without having to call in to speak with an agent.
HOLIDAY TIPS
9 TIPS TO SAVE ON HOLIDAY SHOPPING
(Family Features)
Between navigating stores, searching for items at the top of wish lists and preparing for inevitable delays and lastminute requests, shopping for the holidays can make the most wonderful time of the year one of the most stressful times as well.
Even though the holidays seem to creep up faster and faster every year, and inflation adds an additional worry, there is still hope for your budget this season. To help reduce stress and avoid overspending on gifts, consider these money-
saving tips from Regina Conway, consumer expert for Slickdeals, a one-of-a-kind online community of shoppers working together to shop smarter and save more.
1. AVOID PROCRASTINATING.
Due to shifting shopping habits, there may be excess inventory in certain categories such as home goods. While it’s possible categories with extra inventory may see deep discounts later in the holiday season, don’t expect every item you want to be available at the last minute.
2. SET YOUR BUDGET WITH HIDDEN COSTS IN MIND.
When setting budgets, many people stop at the number they think they’ll spend on gifts alone. Make sure to factor in additional costs such as child or pet care services, shipping fees and travel costs so there are no surprises.
3.
TAP INTO TECHNOLOGY.
Whether shopping for toys and technology or travel and home goods, starting your search by visiting a site like Slickdeals can help you find the best deals this holiday season. Deals from top retailers are vetted and voted on by a community of 12 million shoppers working together to save to help ensure you’re getting the best products at the best prices. You can also set Deal Alerts to be notified when a deal matching your criteria gets posted.
4. BUY ONLINE, PICK UP IN-STORE.
Where available – including at many big box retailers –shopping online then picking up your purchases in-store (or curbside for even more convenience) can help you avoid paying shipping fees and confirm your items will arrive on time. Some retailers even offer exclusive discounts for curbside or in-store pickup.
5. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS.
If you haven’t been a member before, many retailers that offer memberships allow for free trials to test the perks, which often include free shipping. However, remember to cancel the trial before it auto-subscribes you for a full year. If you’ve previously done a trial, consider buying just a one-month membership to take advantage of the benefits during the holiday shopping season.
6. ABANDON YOUR SHOPPING CART.
When shopping online, add items you’re interested in to your cart, go through the check out process to the point where the retailer has your email address then simply close the browser or tab. Often, if you have not shopped from the site previously, the retailer will send you a discount code or coupon to incentivize your purchase decision.
7. STOCK UP ON DISCOUNTED GIFT CARDS.
Taking advantage of discounted gift card sites is a simple way to save some cash on holiday purchases. Not only can you give a gift card you bought at a discount as a gift, you can also use it to shop. Just be sure not to overbuy or you may end up wasting unused cards.
8. ASK FOR A PRICE MATCH OR ADJUSTMENT.
If you bought something and find a lower price within a week of that purchase, ask the retailer for a price adjustment. While this typically won’t work with special promotions, many stores, both online and brick and mortar, will price match during the holiday season. If you’re shopping in-store, take your smartphone with you and ask for the retailer to match online pricing, which can sometimes be a better deal. Asking for this match can save you time and money on shipping fees you might incur ordering online.
9. CHECK RETURN POLICIES.
Many retailers offer extended return windows during the holiday shopping season. Make sure you look at the details of retailers’ policies to ensure you understand how much time you have to make returns and don’t have to pay return shipping or other unexpected costs.
Find more tips to get the best deals on holiday gifts at Slickdeals.net.
BENEFITS
PTO Website & Social Media Exposure
Ad Space in Yearbook
Logo on Fall Fundraiser and Spring Carnival T-Shirts
PTO Newsletter Acknowledgement
Appearance in Thank You Sign at School
BENEFITS
PTO Website & Social Media Exposure
Medium Ad Space in Yearbook
Logo on Fall Fundraiser and Spring Carnival T-Shirts
Activity Sponsor at Fall and Spring School Wide Events
PTO Newsletter Acknowledgement Appearance in Thank You Sign at School
(1) Feature in PTO Newsletter
BENEFITS
PTO Website & Social Media Exposure
Large Ad Space in Yearbook
Logo on Fall Fundraiser and Spring Carnival T-Shirts
Activity Sponsor at Fall and Spring School Wide Events
PTO Newsletter Acknowledgement
Appearance in Thank You Sign at School
(1) Feature in PTO Newsletter
(4) Complimentary Passes to Fall, Winter and Spring School Wide Events
BENEFITS
PTO Website & Social Media Exposure
Large Ad Space in Yearbook
Logo on Fall Fundraiser and Spring Carnival T-Shirts
PTO Newsletter Acknowledgement
Appearance in Thank You Sign at School
(1) Feature in PTO Newsletter
(4) Complimentary Passes to Fall, Winter and Spring School Wide Events
(1) VIP Tent at Fall and Spring School Wide Event
Community-Wide Exclusive Event Sponsor
Woodbrook Elementary 18520 Purple Martin Parkway Elkhorn, NE 68022
HOLIDAY TIPS
OUR FAVORITE THANKSGIVING DINNER PREP TIP!
DDecorating cookies is a wonderful way to keep your children occupied and out of the kitchen.
All you need are a packet of pre-made sugar cookies (or make some easy bake pillsbury cookies), different colors of icing and an assortment of candy. Your kids will be delighted to get to decorate and be able to participate in the holiday.
And this way you can focus on finishing preparations or anything you need to do for Thanksgiving dinner.
BEST DONUT SHOPS IN OMAHA
SPUDNUTZ
920 N 204th Ave, Elkhorn, NE
A 75-year-old tradition is now open in Elkhorn! Come out to our store with the traditional potato flour recipe that made the donut famous.
SQUARE DONUT
15825 W. Maple Rd. Omaha, NE
Square Donut is your local artisan donut bakery. Family owned and operated. Fresh, scratch donuts every day! Open Tuesdays through Sundays, 6am to 1pm or until sold out. Taste the difference! Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or our website.
HOLIDAY TIPS
HOW TO KEEP PETS HAPPY AND HEALTHY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
(Family Features)
The holiday season means fun and festivities for all,
but getting wrapped up in all the excitement and celebrations can lead to forgetting about safety and precautions, especially for pets.
Consider these seven tips to help you spot potential hazards around the holidays and keep your pets healthy and happy.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
Sweet treats and savory bites are treasured holiday pastimes for humans, but that can also mean things like chocolates, nuts and animal bones should be supervised carefully so your pets don’t ingest something toxic or harmful. Other human foods to put on the do-not-share list include garlic, onions and grapes. It’s also wise to keep your trash in a tightly sealed container or hidden somewhere your pet can’t access.
KEEP CALM & CARRY ON:
The holiday season brings people together for milestones and celebrations, but all the hoopla can be stressful for pets. From the loud music and new visitors to kids running around or fireworks going off, some pets can become overwhelmed. To help keep your pets comfortable and calm, try turning on a TV or some soothing music in a quiet room away from the noises or let them curl up on their favorite bed with a toy or treat to distract them. You can also try introducing a calming supplement like Zesty Paws Calming Bites for Dogs that may help with normal stress, nervousness and hyperactivity during stressful situations.
WATCH OUT FOR TREE TRIMMINGS AND POISONOUS PLANTS:
While poinsettias and festive fir trees are holiday classics, they can also be extremely hazardous to pets. It’s important to be careful about what you’re bringing inside your home. Many holiday plants like holly, lilies, amaryllis and even pine needles from trees can be toxic if ingested. If
ingestion does occur, contact a pet poison hotline or your veterinarian. If it’s after hours or in the event of an emergency, find your nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic.
WATCH THE WEATHER:
Changing temperatures and harsh conditions can wreak havoc on human skin, so it’s no surprise it can also affect pets’ skin and coats. You can try reducing their bathing frequency, keeping up with brushings and providing extra hydration to keep them feeling their best. Another way to keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy is to add supplements that contain essential fatty acids. A fish oil, like Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil, provides omega3s for dogs to help nourish their skin and coats.
STICK TO A ROUTINE:
Pets thrive on routines for feeding, potty breaks and exercise, so be conscious of how your holiday plans may shake things up. Try to stick to your regular schedule as closely as possible or consider asking a friend or relative to help if you’ll be away during regular feeding or outdoor break times.
SPEND SOME QUALITY TIME:
In addition to providing companionship and love, spending time with pets can also reduce stress, anxiety and depression; ease loneliness; and encourage exercise and playfulness. Even though you may be traveling or partying with friends, be sure to spend some quality time with your fur babies this holiday season, too.
GIVE THEM GIFTS:
Humans aren’t the only ones who love to get gifts. Few things beat the look on dog’s faces when you pull out a new toy or treat for them to enjoy. Whether it’s a new leash, ball or cozy bed, be sure you have a little something to give your furry family members this holiday season as well.
For more information and ways to keep your pets happy and healthy, visit ZestyPaws.com.
Find the best Christmas Lights in Omaha full of beautifully decorated houses with bright lights, inflatables, decorations, and some with thousands of lights choreographed to music!
Fill up on some hot cocoa, grab a warm blanket, and drive around looking at the Christmas lights with our Interactive Map!
Want to submit your house for consideration? Click on the link below and send us your info with some photos!
NEW YEAR'S EVE FAMILY FUN!
NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR
Saturday, December 31st | 7 p.m.
LAUNCH AND VIEWING LOCATION near CHI Health Event Center & TD Ameritrade Park (near 10th & Cass Street).
For the last signature event of the Holiday Lights Festival, enjoy the spectacular firework show in the warmth and safety of your vehicle!
The fireworks will be launched from Parking Lot D (no public parking) of the CHI Health Event Center. Arrive early and park for FREE to view the up-close show in the recommended viewing areas listed below. In addition, all Downtown Omaha parking meters will be free after 5 p.m. on December 31, courtesy of Park Omaha.