Kearney County Courthouse (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
MINDEN — The enchantment of the holiday season is approaching, and it’s time to mark your calendars for the most magical celebration in Nebraska in Minden—the Christmas City! Get ready to experience the joy and wonder of Christmas through several events Minden has to offer.
Minden is proud to invite visitors from all corners of Nebraska to join us during many of our unforgettable festive experiences. This year, we’ve prepared a spectacular lineup of activities and events to make your holiday season truly magical! Visit our website and subscribe to our events calendar for information about each event and for cancellations in case of inclement weather at [Mindenne.org](http://www.mindenne.org).
Ladies Night Out:
Date: Nov. 17, 2023
Time: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Get your friends together for an evening of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Explore Minden’s charming downtown area and make the most of exclusive deals from local businesses. Enjoy holiday inspired cocktails, sample foods from restaurants and food trucks; find the perfect gift from vendors at the Minden Opera House, the Rusty Spoke Café, and Bloomin’ Wild Imagery. Finish off the night of fun on the dance floor at Windmill Studios with musician Bobby Cummings.
Christmas City Fun Run 5K & Little Elf Run:
Date: Dec. 2, 2023
Start Time: 8 a.m.
Join the Christmas City Fun Run 5K and Little Elf Run to kick off December on a healthy and spirited note. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual jogger, this event is perfect for all ages and abilities. The event begins at 8 am with a pancake feed by the Rotary Club and the race begins at 9am. Visit our website to register online. The registration deadline is Nov. 17th for T-shirts. Registration is permissible the day of the race.
Christmas Traditions Festival:
Date: Nov. 24
Time: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Family Scavenger Hunt: Kickstart the festivities with a fun-filled family scavenger hunt that will have you exploring the enchanting streets and businesses of Minden. Find hidden treasures and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Live Nativity: Experience the true meaning of Christmas with our live nativity scene. Step into a captivating reenactment of the birth of Jesus, complete with live animals and a heartwarming atmosphere.
Petting Zoo: Delight in the company of furry friends at our charming petting zoo, a hit with visitors of all ages.
Meet Santa and his Reindeer: Thanks to Pony Express Ford for being corporate sponsors of this event, you will get to meet Santa Claus himself and get up close and personal with his magical reindeer. Don’t forget to share your wish list with the jolly man in red!
Lighted Christmas Parade and Competition:
Date: Nov. 24
Start Time: 5:30 p.m.
Gaze in awe as our illuminated parade floats, and festively decorated vehicles light up the night. Local businesses and organizations compete to create the most magical and captivating display. It’s an enchanting spectacle that will leave you in the holiday spirit. Three floats will win prizes and earn bragging rights. Registration for the parade is now open and can be found on our website.
Miss Christmas City Pageant
Date: Nov. 24
Start Time: 6:30 p.m.
The Miss Christmas City Pageant is a beloved annual tradition where grace, talent, and the holiday spirit come together on one glittering stage at the Minden Opera House. As part of the city’s festive celebrations, the pageant showcases the talent and poise of local contestants who compete for the title of Miss Christmas City. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for students K-12 and free for 4 years and younger.
Light of The World Pageant
Date: Nov. 25, Dec 3, and Dec. 10.
Start Time: 7 p.m. (firepits & s’mores begin at 6:30 p.m.
Step into the season’s true meaning at the Light of the World Pageant. Join us in celebrating the 77th year of a cherished tradition which takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and the first two Sundays in December (Nov. 25, Dec 3 and Dec 10.
Performed by local residents, the event takes place on the courthouse square and is free for all to enjoy. Prior to the curtains rising, warm up with our cozy firepits and indulge in delicious s’mores, and create cherished memories that will illuminate your holiday season. Don’t miss this heartwarming experience that brings the spirit of Christmas to life.
