Elkhorn, NE December 2025

Holidays & Giving

Bright Lights, Warm Hearts and Timeless Holiday Style

There’s something magical about the way our community sparkles this time of year. Twinkling lights trace the rooftops, familiar streets glow with warmth and the air carries that unmistakable mix of excitement and generosity that defines the holiday season.

This issue of Elkhorn City Lifestyle celebrates the heart of the holidays: giving, gathering and growing together. We stop by Victress Elkhorn, a local women’s gym that’s redefining strength and community through empowerment and connection. We also explore meaningful ways to support seniors during the holidays, reminding us that the most valuable gifts often come in the form of time, kindness and shared stories. And of course, we couldn’t resist the magic of the Omaha Holiday Lights Festival, where tradition and twinkle meet to illuminate the season.

If you’re decking the halls or planning festive gatherings, Beyond the Vine shares this year’s most elegant holiday décor trends, from natural textures to timeless metallics, while Party Ambiance brings inspiration with statement-making balloon installations and party décor ideas that make any celebration unforgettable. Together, they offer everything you need to host with grace, style and a touch of sparkle.

As we close out another year, may your days be filled with warmth, beauty and joy. Here’s to giving generously, celebrating boldly and cherishing every moment that makes our community feel like home.

Cheers!

STEPHANIE LEWIS, PUBLISHER @ELKHORNCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Stephanie Lewis stephanie.m.lewis@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Hailey Zebley hailey.zebley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Nichole Peringer nichole.peringer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nichole Peringer, Hailey Zebley, Stephanie Lewis, Angela Broockerd

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mollie Marie Creative, Jamie Kilgore, Hailey Zebley, Cara Bresette-Yates, Party Ambiance, Jordain Smith Creative, Papesh Creative, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

“The gift of teammates who make me better and the trust of our community and primary eye care doctors means so much to me.”

DR. BAARTMAN

“Earning a patient’s trust, with something as precious as vision, means the world to me. We are very blessed to do what we do.”

DR. PROVENCHER

“Every patient who comes to see me is giving me their trust with their appearance and their confidence. When that trust is reaffirmed after surgery, it’s a gift of profound gratitude.”

DR. MECHELS

“Serving as a VTV doctor has been one of life’s greatest privileges. The true gift is witnessing how restoring vision can rekindle a patient’s joy in seeing all that life has to offer.”

DR. GOERTZ

“The gift of frequent, gentle reminders that the seemingly small things in life are truly the most important; embrace the glimmers.”

DR. WALTON

“To me, it is more of a privilege to be able to provide the precious gift of sight for our Nebraska community that raised me.”

DR. NGUYEN

Gifts like these can’t be measured in charts or outcomes. They come in the form of a patient’s first look at a grandchild, the light in someone’s eyes after years of darkness, or the simple “thank you” whispered with tears.

World-class eye care. Rooted in service. Enriched by the gifts only human connection can offer.

Schedule your appointment today by calling (402) 506-9970 or visit vancethompsonvision.com.

In

The right questions don’t just get you a

city scene

1: Midnight Masquerade, farm-to-table dinner at Nelson’s Produce Farm. 2: Local author Casey Cline with her family at her book launch party. 3: Wine and live music add to the ambiance at the West O Wine Walk. 4: West O Chamber members serve wine and greet attendees at the West O Wine Walk. 5: Rocky’s Stone + Design created a “living water” display with their Hallelujah Night Trunk at Love Church. 6: Members of Virtue Group Realty at their Nebraska Cornhuskers tailgate event. 7: The Love Can Store by Project Intentional provides resources for mothers in Omaha, with décor by Party Bar Omaha.

8: Shoppers browse the new Anastasia Co. storefront in Waterloo during it’s grand opening. 9: Winners of the 2025 PRO Chili, Wing and Bevy cook-off, held at Forsman’s Finest Decks. 10: Fluff Interior Design celebrates its grand opening in downtown Elkhorn.

Finely Built. Forsman’s Finest.

Forsman’s Finest Decks designs and builds custom decks, patio covers, and outdoor living spaces across the Omaha area. From the design to the final touches, their team handles every step with professionalism and attention to detail. Known for high-quality craftsmanship, clear communication, and clean job sites, they take pride in creating beautiful, long-lasting outdoor spaces that bring families together and enhance the way you enjoy your home.

business monthly

Give the Gift of Style and Get a Little Extra

This season at Clothes Mentor, when you buy a $50 gift card, you’ll get $10 free, or buy $25 and get $5 free. It’s perfect for treating someone special, or yourself, to designer looks for less. Hurry, this limited-time offer won’t last.

Scan to read more

Anastasia Co. Celebrates Grand Opening in Waterloo

The Anastasia Co. celebrated its grand opening surrounded by hundreds of community members and a live performance from Natalie Hughes. Complete with giveaways, refreshments and a ribbon cutting, owner Jillian Garry unveiled her dream alongside friends and family. Boutique lovers can visit Waterloo to find dazzling home décor, stationery and cozy couture on Tuesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Fluff Interior Design Opens New Showroom in Downtown Elkhorn

Fluff Interior Design held its grand opening in early November, providing the Elkhorn community a hub for turning houses into homes. Offering consultations, Fluff aims to make home your favorite place to be, with custom upholstery, bold wallpaper, unique paneling and more. Stop by the store to turn the home of your dreams into a reality.

Scan to read more

Supernovas Announce 2026 Schedule, Host San Diego in Home Opener

The Omaha Supernovas have unveiled their full 2026 Major League Volleyball schedule, featuring 14 home matches at CHI Health Center. The season begins with a primetime home opener Thursday, Jan. 8, against the San Diego Mojo. Focused on delivering the best fan experience, all home matches will be played Thursday through Sunday, giving fans more opportunities to see Nebraska’s leading professional volleyball franchise. For the complete schedule, visit Supernovas.com.

Dream Natural

THE STRENGTH OF GIVING

Victress Elkhorn Empowers Women to Rebuild Body, Mind and Confidence

As the holidays approach and calendars fill, one local gym is looking beyond the glitter to what comes next: January. Victress Elkhorn owner Becca Albrecht says the new year is when women rebuild together, and the gym’s 12-week Strength Cycle is designed for exactly that.

Victress began in Lincoln, Nebraska, founded by Stacy Orsborn and Stasi Grenfell with a fitness focus built specifically for women. “The main idea in the very beginning was prenatal training for women,” Albrecht recalls. That vision grew quickly, and soon a second location opened in Elkhorn, where Albrecht’s role evolved almost overnight. “I was a member for a minute, then I became a coach, then head coach, and I loved it. I loved the mission and knew I wanted more,” she says.

That passion led to a partnership and, eventually, ownership. “It’ll be two years in January that I’ve owned the Victress Elkhorn location,” Albrecht says. After more than a decade in health care, Albrecht felt called to take a leap. “A lot of direction came from God as I chose to walk away from corporate America,” she says. “My husband was super supportive, and it’s been such a blessing ever since.” CONTINUED >

At Victress Elkhorn, programs are designed with women in mind, starting from the inside out with breath and core work. “A lot of our movements are core- and breath focused to really protect the pelvic floor,” Albrecht explains. “We don’t program sit-ups; instead, we do exercises like dead bugs, bird dogs, planks and front squats.”

That same intentional care continues through every season of life, from postpartum to pre- and post-menopause. “Our postpartum program, which we call ‘Return to Movement,’ slowly reintroduces exercise,” Albrecht says. “The goal is intention over intensity. You’re kind to your body, slowing down and really feeling what you’re doing.”

Victress collaborates with pelvic-floor therapists and keeps education front and center, including workshops on menstrual-cycle training. “We teach women how to train around their cycles,” she explains. “My first question is always, ‘Where are you at in your cycle?’ Then we modify movements to honor and respect that time.” It’s an approach that sets Victress apart, along with one other noticeable feature: there are no mirrors. “We’re not about the cosmetic side of working out,” Albrecht says. “I want to move my body without worrying about how I look in a mirror today, because that changes day to day.”

The gym’s mission extends to the next generation, too. “We have a youth sports performance program for teen girls that builds

“We build each other up here, with no cattiness, just support. What makes Victress special is that it’s relational, not transactional.

When women walk through our doors, they’re not just signing up for a workout; they’re joining a community.”

confidence and teaches speed, agility, power and strength,” Albrecht says. And for parents, weekday mornings come with an added bonus: childcare during the 9 and 10 a.m. classes.

As the new year approaches, Albrecht wants to spread one message loud and clear. “Our 12-week Strength Cycle starts the first week of January,” she says. “It’s our most popular program and everyone’s favorite.” Each week builds on the last, helping women progress safely and confidently. “You’ll build on the core strength training we establish at the beginning, and by week 12 you’ll be completely set up for success in week 13 and beyond,” Albrecht explains. Memberships are flexible, month-to-month with no long-term commitment, and the program is open to all. “Even if

someone just wants to join for 12 weeks, they can,” Albrecht says. “Our member retention is incredible. More than 70% of women stay for years after they join.”

Victress Elkhorn meets women where they are, every day and in every season of life. “We work on an RPE scale, which stands for rate of perceived exertion,” Albrecht explains. “Maybe today a 7 or 8 effort feels like all you have, and that’s okay. We’re not here to compare. We’re here to encourage and motivate you to keep showing up.”

That perspective is especially powerful for women in perimenopause and menopause. “Strength training is crucial during this stage of life because it helps preserve muscle mass,” she says. “As estrogen declines, weight training helps maintain strength and bone density.” While cardio and sprint intervals make appearances, the emphasis is clear: more weightlifting, more empowerment and more community.

“These women make me better as a person,” Albrecht says. “We build each other up here, no cattiness, just support. What makes Victress special is that it’s relational, not transactional. When women walk through our doors, they’re not just signing up for a workout; they’re joining a community.” She adds, “We really mean it when we say come as you are. We meet

you exactly where you’re at, whether you’re rebuilding after pregnancy, navigating a tough season or just looking to move your body again. There’s a place for you here.”

She leads by example, too. “I lift three days a week and run three days a week,” she says. “Those workouts are in my calendar, non-negotiable.” From prenatal breathwork to barbell confidence and a community of women who cheer each other on, Victress’ approach is simple: slow down, move well and do it together.

“Everybody’s an athlete,” Albrecht says. “We want everyone to be seen, feel safe, feel welcome and leave empowered.” And for anyone eyeing a fresh start in the new year?

“It’s everyone’s favorite cycle,” she says with a smile. “Join for 12 weeks, and I’m almost certain you won’t want to leave.”

With retention rates like Victress Elkhorn’s, odds are you probably won’t. For more information, visit victressmvmt.com.

OLIDAYH RENDS

CURATING A CHRISTMAS SANCTUARY

Layer color, texture and nostalgia for a holiday look that feels both timeless and new

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY HAILEY ZEBLEY AND CARA BRESETTE-YATES

This Christmas, channel a cozy, curated look with Beyond the Vine. Owner Rose McCormick has created a winter wonderland, each corner a different aesthetic to match the needs of any client.

Holiday decorating, she says, starts with consistent color. While pinks may not be traditional, an easy way to blend pops of color is to layer neutral with soft hues. Match pinks with charcoal and burgundy to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The holiday season doesn’t have to scream Christmas. Go for a more neutral look with subtle details.

Accentuate any Christmas setting with a reindeer, metallic, velvet or wooden, each bringing its own vibe to the party.

while maintaining a neutral aesthetic.

Greens can extend beyond the branches of the tree. Use deep emeralds layered with cream and taupe to create depth with what McCormick has coined her “new neutral.”

“You don’t have to stay true to one shade. I am all about mixing them purposefully so that it all looks blended. In interiors, it isn’t so matchy, so we can carry that through in Christmas décor as well,” McCormick says.

Nostalgia can remain this season, paired with a unifying element and color. Take the sentimental ornaments and pair them with a ribbon or pick a detail to bring together your mementos.

For lighting, incandescent strands offer a softer, dreamy glow, and dramatic toppers add height without overspending. Finally, remember that bigger is better. “If you want a cohesive, uniform look for the tree, it’s better to buy two main elements and plenty of them,” McCormick says. Aim for 15–20 ornaments, layering large to small for depth and magic.

Rose McCormick, owner of Beyond the Vine, has spent more than 40 years transforming homes and businesses with her signature mix of creativity, precision and heart. Specializing in custom silk botanicals, décor and gifting, she blends design expertise with a deep passion for nurturing relationships and inspiring joy.

THE GIFT of Presence

LOCAL EXPERTS SHARE HOW INTENTIONAL MOMENTS HELP AGING LOVED ONES FEEL SEEN

The holidays are about more than dazzling décor and festive gatherings, they’re about connection. No one understands that more than senior family members, who offer a lifetime of wisdom and stories. Yet amid the season’s chaos, it’s easy for them to feel overlooked.

From long-standing traditions to new rituals that reflect changing families, there are countless ways to make senior loved ones feel seen and valued. The holidays also provide an opportunity to notice subtle changes in behavior, mood or routine that may signal a need for added support.

At Garden View Manor, a residential senior home offering round-the-clock care for eight residents, owners Bret and Christi Johnson emphasize autonomy and connection. Their philosophy centers on daily communication and meaningful engagement - key ingredients for aging with dignity.

When evaluating needs, families should look beyond medical requirements to find the right emotional and personality fit. Small details, spoiled food, missed medications or an untidy home, can signal early decline. While not every change requires immediate action, noticing patterns helps families intervene before needs escalate.

CONTINUED >

“Go with them to their doctor visits,” Christi advises. “Often they don’t remember everything the doctor says. It’s helpful to have two sets of ears and to keep communication open.”

Johnson also stresses emotional support, especially keeping seniors connected with younger relatives. “They enjoy sharing their life experiences because there’s so much they went through that this generation hasn’t had to deal with,” she says.

Empathy is central to maintaining strong relationships, says Richard Troia, founder and president of Symphony of Care, an in-home support organization helping seniors maintain daily routines in familiar surroundings. “It’s important to acknowledge that sense of loss or loneliness and then find ways to combat it,” he says. “Incorporate them in the holiday traditions your family has always enjoyed. Make them feel loved and a part of the family. It’s really the small things that create that sense of togetherness.”

her guide the process can preserve a sense of purpose. “Seniors fear being forgotten or feeling like a burden,” Troia says. “Finding ways to show them they are valued is important.”

FirstLight Home Care, another Omaha-based in-home care provider, shares that philosophy. Owner Tracy Connor says her caregivers help families identify subtle behavioral or environmental changes that may indicate evolving needs. “Being more withdrawn or leaning away from social activities are things we watch for,” Connor says. “Our caregivers make sure clients are eating well, staying hydrated and engaging throughout the holidays.”

“Seniors fear being forgotten and left out, or feeling like a burden.

Finding ways to support them and show they are valued is important”

Since 2011, Symphony of Care has created personalized care plans tailored to each client - from companionship and safety to hands-on support. Caregivers also help families recognize changes when they can’t visit often. “We look for increased stress, agitation, not getting enough sleep and just being out of sorts,” Troia says. “If you spend time with your loved one, you know when it’s a good day and when it’s not. Looking for those signs of change is a good place to start.”

As abilities shift, many seniors experience a loss of identity. If a grandmother can no longer lead the holiday baking, assisting her while letting

Connor adds that in-home support isn’t always about decline, it often enhances independence. “Seniors want to maintain their sense of agency,” she explains. “In-home care can provide the help they may not know they need, as well as the social aspect they’re looking for. The goal is to remain independent. More people than ever are aging in place, and we come in to offer support, security and social connection.”

Supporting aging loved ones through the holidays doesn’t require grand gestures. It begins with awareness, compassion and consistent connection. Through small check-ins, shared traditions or professional in-home support, families can ensure seniors feel valued and included.

Honoring those who shaped our lives is more than a seasonal sentiment - it’s a commitment to dignity, continuity and care that strengthens the entire family circle.

Party Ambiance Omaha

Seamlessly elevate your holiday gatherings

With the holiday season in full swing, the quest for unique décor options builds. Enter Party Ambiance, a premier balloon design company known for transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary festive settings.

TAILORED HOLIDAY DÉCOR

Party Ambiance specializes in creating custom balloon installations that cater to a variety of events, from holiday parties to birthdays and corporate celebrations. Whether you are hosting an intimate family gathering or a grand corporate event, their team collaborates closely with clients to bring their vision to life. From balloon arches and garlands to ceiling canopies and chandeliers, each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a cohesive and festive atmosphere.

ECO-FRIENDLY ELEGANCE

In an era where sustainability is vital, Party Ambiance stands out by using 100% biodegradable latex balloons. This commitment to eco-friendly practices allows clients to indulge in luxurious décor without compromising the environment.

STRESS-FREE CELEBRATIONS

Planning a holiday event can be overwhelming, but Party Ambiance aims to alleviate that

stress. Their services encompass everything from design consultation to setup and teardown, allowing hosts to focus on enjoying the festivities. “Customer service is everything to me. I want every client to feel heard, understood and taken care of from start to finish. It’s not just about balloons. It’s about creating a beautiful experience that feels effortless for them,” says owner Lena Khots.

CREATIVITY COMES TO LIFE

The company’s portfolio showcases a diverse range of holiday-themed decorations. Imagine a shimmering gold and red garland archway welcoming guests or a whimsical balloon snowman centerpiece adding charm to your dining table. Each installation is a testament to the creativity Party Ambiance brings to every project.

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY TRANSFORMATION

This holiday season, elevate your gatherings with the expertise of Party Ambiance. Visit their website to explore their gallery, read client testimonials and schedule a consultation. Let them help you create a memorable and festive ambiance that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. For more information and to view their portfolio, visit partyambianceomaha.com.

It’s not just about balloons, it’s about creating a beautiful experience that feels effortless. “

NUCCA Chiropractic is a gentle, specific correction in the upper neck that takes the pressure off the brainstem so that it and the entire nervous system can function properly. Upper cervical chiropractors specialize in detecting and correcting misalignments of the top two bones in the neck. For many, this has provided natural relief for neck pain, chronic pain, dizziness, ear infections, asthma, allergies, headaches and migraines. Unity Wellness is about working together to restore movement, function and life. Call to schedule your complementary consultation today.

A CITY wrapped in CHEER

Each winter, Omaha transforms into a glowing postcard with lights reflecting off riverfront waters, families braving the cold to celebrate the season. In 2024, the city celebrated 25 years of its beloved Holiday Lights Festival, surpassing its goal of 5 million meals in its Shine the Light on Hunger campaign.

Festivities kick off at The RiverFront’s Gene Leahy Mall, where thousands gather for the lighting ceremony and live music before navigating 72 acres of illuminated pathways and exploring the Old Market’s shops and restaurants.

Downtown, North Omaha and South Omaha twinkle with warm light displays, the RiverFront enhancing the experience with a multimedia light show. The detail and dedication of the community demonstrate how a small local tradition has grown into a signature celebration.

Community remains at the heart of it all. Families ride Ollie the Trolley to museums, libraries and even the Mounted Patrol Barn during the annual KETV Family Festival, enjoying scavenger hunts, crafts, cocoa and visits with Santa, all free of charge.

Closing out the season is a STAR 104.5 light show that plays in sync with the station's soundtrack as part of the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular.

Omaha’s beloved festival blends celebration with compassion, one meal at a time

ARTICLE BY HAILEY ZEBLEY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAPESH CREATIVE

Throughout the celebration, Omaha opens both its doors and its heart. The Shine the Light on Hunger campaign rallies the city to support Food Bank for the Heartland, encouraging grocery donations, volunteerism and matched financial gifts. Led by Conagra Brands Foundation, the 2024 5-million-meal goal was met, helping feed neighbors across the region.

This holiday season, the need for food security in our community is higher than ever. Now in the 26th year of the Holiday Lights Festival and the 19th year of the Shine the Light on Hunger campaign, Omaha is preparing to reach a meal goal of 6 million meals this year.

In 2025, the holiday magic returns with the lighting ceremony on Nov. 29. The displays in Omaha will shine through Jan. 10, and the Old Market through Jan. 1.

Families can look forward to the KETV Family Festival on Dec. 7, with free access to hands-on holiday experiences, while the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular on Dec. 31 will provide a display to remember for years to come.

Shine the Light on Hunger returns Nov. 15–Dec. 31, continuing its mission to nourish the heartland. Even in a season of sparkle, giving back remains the most radiant tradition of all.

Omaha’s holiday lights brighten the skyline while shining a light on what matters most: community, tradition and the power of people coming together.

Whether you are strolling through the Old Market, soaking in shimmering views along the RiverFront or admiring the glow across historic stretches of the city, the 2025 Holiday Lights Festival promises another season of joy and camaraderie.

Visit holidaylightsfestival.org for more information on events and to donate to Shine the Light on Hunger.

Opening lighting ceremony, Nov. 29, at 6 p.m.; displays through early January; KETV Family Festival, Dec. 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and New Year’s Eve fireworks, 7 p.m., Dec. 31. All events are free.

BREAKFAST HOLIDAY

The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy these easy, make-ahead recipes to simplify your holiday breakfast; they are sure to impress your guests.

MONKEY BREAD

Ingredients:

• 18-20 Rhodes white frozen rolls

• 1 regular box of cook and serve butterscotch pudding

• ½ cup chopped pecans

• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

• ¾ teaspoons cinnamon

• ½ cup brown sugar

Instructions:

Grease a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Sprinkle chopped pecans around the bottom of the bundt pan. Next, place frozen rolls in the pan, evenly spreading them out. Sprinkle the rolls with the dry pudding mix. Melt butter in a separate container, and add cinnamon and brown sugar and stir. Pour butter and sugar mixture over the rolls. Cover with saran wrap that is sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Place in a cool oven overnight with the light off. Bake the next morning at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes and then turn the bundt pan over onto a serving plate and gently pry out of the pan, allowing time for the pecans and toppings to drip on top. Enjoy!

HEARTY BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Ingredients:

• 8 eggs

• 2-3 cups torn bread pieces

• 3 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

• 1 pound breakfast sausage, browned

• 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 2 cups shredded cheese of choice

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon rosemary

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Spray 9 x 13 pan with cooking spray. Layer torn bread pieces on the bottom of the pan to cover completely. Sprinkle 1 cup cheese over the bread. Whisk eggs and heavy whipping cream and red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Pour mixture into the baking dish. Add bacon and sausage on top of egg mixture. Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle with rosemary and thyme. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes or until the center is done.

EGGNOG MARTINI

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce vodka

• 1 ounce Kahlua

• 1 ounce brewed coffee cooled

• 3  ounces eggnog

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Dash of cinnamon

Instructions:

Add all ingredients together in a shaker and mix. Pour into a glass and serve over the rocks.

GOURMET HOT CHOCOLATE

Add a little extra pizazz to your hot chocolate by using half and half instead of milk, sprinkle with cinnamon and top with a snowman made out of marshmallows and pretzel sticks

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• ½ cup of cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon, optional

• Milk or half and half

Instructions:

Add dry ingredients to a bowl and stir. For individual servings, mix half of the cocoa mix with a ½ cup milk. Add desired amount of cocoa mix with milk to desired sweetness. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows.

CROISSANT LEMON BERRY DELIGHT

Casserole Ingredients:

• 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes

• 3 cups mixed berries

• 1 package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup  sugar

• 5 eggs at room temperature

• 2 cups half and half at room temperature

• ¾ tablespoon vanilla extract

• ¾ tablespoon lemon juice

Lemon Glaze Ingredients:

• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 tablespoon butter, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 x 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

HASHBROWN BITES

Ingredients:

• 20-ounce bag refrigerated hash brown potatoes

• ¾ cup green onions, sliced

• ½ cup  grated parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ¼ cup pepper jack cheese, optional

Instructions:

Spray muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir. Evenly add mixture to each muffin tin and lightly press down. Bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes. These can be made in advance and reheated for convenience.

realty report

TUESDAY EVENINGS THROUGH DECEMBER

Family Nights with Santa at The Durham Museum

810 S. 10th St., Omaha | 5:00 PM

The Durham Museum rings in the holiday season on Tuesday nights with a special North Pole visit from Kris Kringle. Families can enjoy live music from local performers while children share in the Christmas magic, strolling to Saint Nick to share their holiday wishes. Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for children ages 3 - 12, and free for children ages 0 - 2 and members.

WEEKENDS THROUGH JANUARY 11TH

Farnam Winter Pop-Up

3320 Farnam St., Suite 2101, Omaha

Support small businesses this season at Farnam’s Winter Pop-Up, open Fridays from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sundays from noon - 4 p.m. on weekends through Jan. 11, 2026. Fifteen locally owned shops will offer handmade gifts, local cuisine, boutique couture and more throughout Midtown Crossing.

MONTH OF DECEMBER

Holiday Lights Festival

455 N 10th St., Omaha

Omaha transforms into a winter wonderland, with its RiverFront shimmering and families gathering to celebrate the Holiday Lights Festival. After marking 25 years in 2024 and setting a record with the Shine the Light on Hunger campaign, the city is once again preparing for a season of giving back alongside dazzling displays and trolley-hopping family fun.

MONTH OF DECEMBER

Merry & Bright: Holiday Poinsettia Show

100 Bancroft St., Omaha | 9:00 AM

Families can behold towering poinsettias that fill the floral display hall at Lauritzen Gardens. The annual show is open from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. through December. Admission is $15 for adults, $9 for children ages 3 - 12, and free for little ones ages 0 - 2 and members. Glimmering lights, festive foliage and holiday trains help visitors indulge in the Christmas spirit this season.

DECEMBER 3RD - 7TH, 10TH - 23RD, 26TH - 31ST & JANUARY 2ND - 4TH

Bright Nights at Lauritzen Gardens

100 Bancroft St., Omaha | 4:00 PM

Step into a Nordic-inspired winter wonderland at Bright Nights, where illuminated gardens, a soaring poinsettia tree and reclaimed-wood forests shimmer under the lights. Explore the conservatory, stroll through Sofia’s Play Garden and spot playful trolls along the way. With cozy fire pits, family fun nights and surprise character visits, this festive botanical escape brings nature-driven magic to the holiday season.

DECEMBER 3RD - 7TH, 10TH - 14TH, 17TH - 20TH, 22ND - 23RD, 26TH - 30TH

Zoolightful Holiday Event

3701 S 10th St., Omaha | 9:00 AM

Witness the wild creatures of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo transform into a holiday dream as they welcome the Christmas season with glowing displays and handcrafted lanterns fit for the North Pole. The limited-time displays can be viewed with general admission: $26 for adults and $16 for children ages 3 - 11 on select dates in December.

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DECEMBER 5TH - 7TH

Midwest Fest Holiday Market

800 Douglas St., Omaha

Find yourself surrounded by festivities at Heartland of America Park at the RiverFront for the Midwest Fest Holiday Market. Admission is free, and visitors can enjoy 40 local artisans, a variety of sweet treats and holiday feasts, along with activities such as ice skating and live ice sculpting.

DECEMBER 13TH

Jingle Jam in Olde Town Elkhorn

Olde Towne ElkhornDowntown Elkhorn | 10:00 AM

Olde Towne Elkhorn invites you to usher in the season in true holiday style at Jingle Jam. Wander tree-lined streets, visit locally loved boutiques and savor warm sips and festive bites as the town comes alive with music, art and spirited celebration. It is the perfect way to embrace community, support small businesses and create holiday magic of your own.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular

455 N 10th St., Omaha | 7:00 PM

Close out the holiday season with the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Spectacular, presented by the Holiday Lights Festival. Enjoy the show free from the warmth of your vehicle, tuned to STAR 104.5 to hear the music accompanying the display. Free parking will be available in MECA Lots A, B and C and Gallup parking lots, opening at 6 p.m.

G. LEE HOMES

DESIGN BUILD REMODEL

LET'S WORK TOGETHER!

If building a truly custom home or high-end remodel is your dream, we need to talk!

G. Lee Homes is your local full-service luxury home builder. We can take your project from concept to completion and build o n our lot or yours.

Schedule an appointment to start your dream home to day.

B est of all, we’re right here in the neighborhood!

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