Cue the twinkling lights, festive music and the familiar feeling that there simply aren’t enough hours in the day during the holiday season! Between finding the perfect gifts, planning celebrations, preparing for guests and squeezing in a little seasonal fun, the most wonderful time of the year can also be one of the busiest.
Luckily, a little holiday magic is waiting right here in Lincoln. From thoughtful gifts and delicious seasonal treats to festive gatherings, nights out with friends and a helping hand around the house, local businesses are ready to make the season a little brighter. So grab your shopping list, bundle up and get ready to sleigh the season as we explore some of the local people and places helping make the holidays merry and bright!
When planning a holiday gathering, finding a venue that offers fun for everyone and those of all ages does not have to be difficult. After all, the holidays are all about bringing people together, making memories and having a little fun along the way. At Sun Valley Lanes & Games (sunvalleylanes.com) there is something for everyone including bowling, laser tag, Lucky Putt, arcade games and more. 
This is truly an experience built for people of all ages. Whether you are looking to strike up a little friendly competition or simply enjoy some time together, there is no shortage of ways to have fun.
On top of all the fun Sun Valley has to offer, they also have an extensive food menu with many different options to choose from.
When it comes to taking stress out of planning, Sun Valley Lanes & Games will help you in the process and can even accommodate up to 348 guests. Regardless of your group’s size, they will help you create an experience that works for all of you. Whether it is a smaller holiday party or a corporate event, they truly have you covered. From gathering around the table for good food to challenging coworkers to a little holiday competition, there are plenty of ways to make your celebration one to remember.
With the upcoming and quickly approaching holiday season, do not wait to start your planning process with Sun Valley Lanes & Games. The holidays have a way of sneaking up on us, and before you know it, the calendar can start filling up with parties, gatherings and celebrations.
Jen Miseno, Event Coordinator at Sun Valley Lanes & Games, believes that if you are looking to book an event especially over the holidays, it’s never too early to start. Start looking at dates 4-6 months out to secure the time you really want. Other details can be ironed out along the way.
That being said, options could be limited so if you are thinking of booking with Sun Valley Lanes & Games, please visit sunvalleylanes.com. With a little planning ahead, you can check one more thing off your holiday to-do list and get ready to celebrate!
The chillier weather makes you want to just cozy up with your loved ones and enjoy some comfort meals. Well, now that we have reached the colder months, Sweet Things by Marcy (sweetthingsbymarcy.com) has got something for you.
And what better way to warm up than with a bowl of Southern comfort?
“Beginning this fall and continuing through the winter and into early spring, Chicken & Dumplings will be our mainstay soup, with two additional soups rotating throughout the season,” said Marcy Haas, Owner of Sweet Things by Marcy. “The rotating selections will give us a chance to feature different Southern comfort-food favorites and seasonal flavors while keeping Chicken & Dumplings available as the one customers can come back for.”
Of course, no cozy season would be complete without something sweet.
Keeping this holiday season sweet as usual, Sweet Things by Marcy is offering all sorts of treats featuring favorites such as Southern Tea Cakes, Southern Pecan Pralines, Kentucky Butter Cake and other rotating Southern desserts and seasonal specialties.
“I want our holiday offerings to feel like the things you remember seeing on your grandmother’s table, receiving from a neighbor, or taking with you when you went to visit family—simple, comforting and made with love,” said Haas.
And when it comes to spreading a little holiday cheer, sometimes the sweetest gifts are the ones you can eat.
If you are thinking of a gift idea, maybe for a coworker, teacher, neighbor, client or anyone who you may want to give the gift of comfort, Southern dessert gift boxes are available. Depending on the box, customers may find a combination of Southern Tea Cakes, Southern Pecan Pralines, miniature Kentucky Butter Cakes or individually wrapped Kentucky Butter Cake slices, along with a rotating assortment of other Southern desserts.
“For me, food has always been about more than just eating, it’s how we celebrate, how we take care of people and how we show love,” said Haas. “That’s the feeling I want our holiday boxes and winter menu to bring to our customers.”
From warm bowls of comfort to boxes filled with something sweet, it all comes back to sharing a little Southern hospitality.
Sweet Things by Marcy is a Southern-inspired bakery, deli and catering business in downtown Lincoln.
“As a woman, Black and veteran-owned small business, I’m proud to bring a little bit of my Alabama upbringing and Southern hospitality to Lincoln,” said Haas.
Planning a holiday party? Between finding the perfect space, figuring out the food and making sure there is something for everyone to sip on, there can be quite a few items on the holiday to-do list. Talon Room (talonroom.com) in downtown Lincoln offers a place where businesses, families and friends can come together, leave some of that planning stress behind and simply enjoy the season.
Whether it’s an annual company party to toast another year of hard work, a festive gathering with friends or a holiday celebration that brings the whole family together, Talon Room provides a setting where guests can eat, drink, mingle and make a few merry memories along the way.
And when the holiday calendar is already filling up faster than a stocking on Christmas Eve, having everything in one place can make planning a little easier. With event space, catering and bar services available, Talon Room helps bring the different pieces of a holiday celebration under one roof.
Instead of spending the evening worrying about what needs to be served next or whether everyone has what they need, hosts can focus on what the season is really about, spending time with the people around them. From raising a glass with coworkers to catching up with friends over dinner, a holiday party is a chance to slow down during one of the busiest times of the year and celebrate together.
After all, the end of the year deserves a little sparkle. Whether you’re celebrating company accomplishments, continuing a favorite holiday tradition or simply looking for an excuse to gather your favorite people in one room, Talon Room offers a place to eat, drink and be merry right in downtown Lincoln.
Finding the perfect gift for the ones you love can be difficult. You want to find something that feels just as special as they are while still making the gift feel personal. This holiday season, STATUS Haymarket (mystatusluxhaymarket.com) offers a shopping experience that can help take some of the guesswork out of finding a gift that is timeless, stylish and truly unique.
Locally and woman-owned here in Lincoln, STATUS Haymarket is a boutique specializing in pre-authenticated, second-hand luxury handbags. With a selection of unique handbags and accessories, shoppers can find pieces that have their own story while giving something that can be enjoyed for years to come.
As the holiday season gets into full swing, planning ahead can be especially helpful. Some bags and items may take up to six weeks to arrive at the store, so those shopping for friends and family are encouraged to keep the timing in mind when searching for that perfect present. After all, nobody wants their carefully chosen gift arriving after the stockings have already been hung and the presents have been opened.
And when it comes to finding the right piece, you do not have to navigate the selection alone. If you are feeling unsure of what to pick out, STATUS owner Cassie Smidt also offers consultations with spouses and other loved ones to help make sure they find the exact piece they are looking for.
Whether it is a handbag they have been eyeing, a special accessory or simply something that matches their style, a little extra help can make holiday shopping feel much less stressful.
With the holidays just around the corner, a thoughtful gift does not have to be something picked up at the last minute. Sometimes, the most memorable presents are the ones chosen with the person receiving them in mind.
From gifts to experiences, the options for spreading holiday cheer are endless and at Salt Mine City Brewing Co. located in Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket district is helping bring together friends and family for the holiday season.
Whether you are looking for a place for a casual night out with friends, maybe you are looking to plan for a holiday party, regardless of what you are looking for this holiday season Salt Mine City Brewing Co. (saltminecity.com) has got something for everyone to enjoy.
Guests can sip on a selection of small-batch craft beers brewed right on-site while enjoying a menu of crowd-pleasing favorites. Whether you prefer a bold, hoppy IPA or a crisp, refreshing lager, there’s something to suit every taste. It’s the perfect setting to unwind, share a few laughs and make memories with friends and family.
Looking for a place to make your holiday gathering a little merrier? Salt Mine City has a private party room that is just right for everything from festive work parties and birthday bashes to cheerful seasonal get-togethers.
Skip the stress of hosting at home and let the good times roll with delicious food, locally brewed craft beer and plenty of opportunities to catch up, share a few laughs and make merry memories.
Tucked away at 801 R St. in the Haymarket, Salt Mine City brings together the ingredients for a great celebration filled with tasty bites, fresh brews and a laid-back atmosphere where good company is always on the menu!
Finding the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list can be a challenge, but Specially for You (specially4youinc.com) offers a variety of customizable options for different ages, interests and occasions. From apparel and cozy accessories to personalized items, there are plenty of ways to make holiday gift giving special.
Apparel is at the top of the list when it comes to holiday gift giving. These items make great gifts for everyone in the office while allowing them to stay within their brand standards. Coolers and lunch totes continue to be popular choices, especially for those in the healthcare, finance, and educational sectors. For something warm and cozy during the winter months, custom socks and blankets are also great gift ideas.
While all products offered by Specially for You are available year-round, organizations tend to lean toward blankets, drinkware and apparel, including hats and shirts, around the holidays. These options offer a higher price point per person, making them appealing for holiday gifting.
With options for all ages and interests, finding something for everyone is easier than ever. Gifts could include notepads for a musician to write notes on, a simple coloring book for children or items for an avid golfer looking to restock their golf bag.
When it comes to unique gift ideas, every item can be special in its own way. Customers should remember that Specially for You can put a logo on pretty much everything. If they have an idea, the team can hopefully help make it happen, opening the door to personalized gifts for the holiday season and beyond.
The holiday season is all about bringing people together, and good food can make those gatherings even more memorable. Whether you’re planning an office Christmas party, a family get-together or a festive meal with friends, DAVINCI’S (davincis.com) and Greenfield’s Café (greenfieldscafe.com) offer ways to make the season a little easier to enjoy.
For those hosting at home or at the office, DAVINCI’S catering brings a comforting touch to holiday celebrations. Pasta packages featuring baked mostaccioli or lasagna rollups, homemade sauces, garlic cheese rolls and garden salad make it easy to serve a satisfying meal.
For a more casual gathering, the gourmet pizza package includes three large gourmet pizzas, garlic cheese rolls, garden salad and mini chocolate chip cookies. Catering orders can be delivered anywhere in Lincoln, with setup and serving essentials included, giving hosts more time to enjoy the festivities instead of worrying about the details.
Meanwhile, Greenfield’s Café continues to invest in the technology behind its operations, with upgrades designed to improve communication, ordering and the guest experience. Their new updated ordering improvements help the team work more efficiently while keeping hospitality at the heart of the experience.
Greenfield’s Café offers items for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Some of the many items they have include Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs, Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, Nashville Chicken & Waffles, the California Skillet, Loaded Mac N’ Cheese, Philly Quesadilla as well as many sandwiches, soups and salads to choose from! They truly have something for everyone.
As calendars fill with celebrations and the holiday rush begins, a little convenience can go a long way. Whether bringing a meal to the office party or gathering around a table with loved ones, DAVINCI’S and Greenfield’s Café help make room for what matters most this time of year: good food, shared laughter and time together.
Every year, finding a gift for the person, who seems to have everything can be difficult, you want to find something that is memorable and says, “I know you. I appreciate you. I see you.” But the best gifts that are given are not always the gift physically but the ones that last a lifetime in memories and experiences.
Seeing a special someone’s eyes sparkle when opening a gift is a moment that is truly special and makes the holidays a little merrier than they already are. It is true holiday magic.
For 120 years, Sartor Hamann (sartorhamann.com) has been part of life’s most meaningful moments in Lincoln. From engagements and anniversaries to personal milestones and everyday celebrations, the jewelry store offers pieces that become lasting reminders of the people and moments that matter most.
Whether shopping for timeless jewelry, vintage treasures or a watch to commemorate a special achievement, customers can find gifts meant to be treasured for years to come.
For something truly one of a kind, Sartor Hamann’s expert jewelers can help turn a personal idea into a lasting keepsake. Custom designs, reimagined family diamonds and personalized engravings offer thoughtful ways to create a gift with special meaning.
This holiday season, give more than something beautiful. Choose a piece that celebrates a cherished memory, marks a new chapter or shows someone just how much they mean to you.
With 120 years of experience helping generations celebrate life’s special moments, Sartor Hamann makes it easier to find a gift that will be treasured long after the holidays have passed.
Finding the perfect Christmas gift for the man who has everything can be a challenge, but Gary Michaels Clothiers (garymichaels.com) offers several stylish options for the fashion-forward man on your list. Unconstructed stretch sport coats are a versatile choice that can easily transition from casual to dressy. Pair one with premium denim and a sweater for a relaxed look or dress pants, a button-down shirt and tie for holiday gatherings and special occasions.
Cashmere sweaters are another thoughtful gift, available at Gary Michaels in modern solid colors and patterns, with options ranging from classic crew necks to full-zip styles. These timeless pieces make it easy to give a gift he can enjoy long after the holiday season has passed.
Not sure about sizing? The knowledgeable staff at Gary Michaels can help take some of the guesswork out of holiday shopping. Knowing the recipient’s height and weight can be helpful, and even a photo on your phone may give the team a better idea of what size to recommend. With a little help, finding the right fit for that special gift can be easier than expected.
For those who would rather let him choose his own gift, a Gary Michaels gift card is always a great option. It’s another opportunity to check a few names off the Christmas shopping list while finding something he will love.
As another holiday season approaches, Gary Michaels is grateful for the loyal customers who have supported the store throughout its 43-year history.
Whether shopping for a timeless wardrobe staple or something special for the season, shoppers can find thoughtful gifts that help the men in their lives look and feel their best. After all, the best gifts are the ones that keep on giving well beyond the holidays.
The holiday season is the perfect time to celebrate the passions that bring joy to our lives, and for the dancers on your gift list, there are plenty of ways to make their season extra special. From studio essentials to cozy favorites, there are plenty of ways to make a dancer’s holiday bright, starting with Inspire Dance Complex’s (inspiredance-complex.com) merchandise. 
They offer Inspire Dance Complex blankets, water bottles, t-shirts, and tote bags that would make the perfect gift for dancers because they keep on giving throughout the dance season, whether that is a little extra holiday coziness or snuggling up after a busy day at the studio.
For those looking to add a little extra style to the season, Inspire Dance also recommends Dancewares in Lincoln. It has a great selection of cute dance outfits that would make the perfect gift for any dancer looking to upgrade their swag. Let your dancer unwrap a fresh look or step into the New Year in style.
As you see, Inspire Dance Complex in Lincoln has many options for you to choose from. While a physical gift is always exciting to unwrap, the experiences and memories made along the way can be even more meaningful. After all, some of the most memorable gifts are the ones that create lasting memories long after the holiday decorations are put away.
Give the gift of a new adventure or help someone discover a new passion in the New Year. Inspire Dance offers dance classes for dancers of all ages and levels.
Giving the gift of dance is an experience that your child will take with them for a lifetime. They like to say it’s a gift that keeps on giving. From the friendships formed to the confidence gained, friendship, community, art, fun and big dreams are all packed into one dance class. A toy can be easily forgotten, but a dancer’s first class is most definitely one to remember.
The most wonderful time of the year has a way of filling up the calendar quickly, and Venue 5 Twenty-Two (venue5twenty-two.com) is ready to help local businesses, organizations and families make room for a little holiday cheer. With open event space, flexible layouts, built-in AV and on-site parking, the venue can be transformed for everything from a cozy seasonal gathering to a company Christmas party that gives everyone something to celebrate.
And just like the best presents under the tree, the most popular December dates tend to get claimed early. Businesses and organizations hoping to gather their crews for some end-of-year merriment are encouraged to start making their holiday plans sooner rather than later.
When the December calendar starts looking a little too packed, thinking outside the weekend can also open the door to more possibilities. Weekday events offer added flexibility for Christmas parties, celebrations, showers, corporate gatherings, meetings and more. Venue 5 Twenty-Two can help customize the space for each occasion, and those looking for a few helping hands can find a list of vendors on the venue’s website.
Whether the plan calls for raising a glass with coworkers, gathering the family for some holiday cheer or simply celebrating another year together, Venue 5 Twenty-Two offers a space where guests can settle in, celebrate and make the season a little more memorable.
And while visions of Christmas parties may be dancing through everyone’s heads now, wedding bells are already ringing well into 2028. Couples hoping to secure a favorite date are encouraged to reserve 12–18 months in advance when possible.
The holiday season brings plenty of excitement, from decorating the home and preparing meals to welcoming family and friends. But with all the planning that goes into creating a memorable holiday, cleaning can quickly become one more thing on the to-do list.
At the end of the day, the holidays are about togetherness. Whether your friends and family prefer an outing or staying in from the bitter weather, it is a time for memories, laughter and love, no matter how you choose to spend it.
But if you are looking for something to get out of the house, the Nebraska Communities Playhouse (NCP) – Hickman Theater (neplayhouse.com) is a great option for any age. 
The Nebraska Communities Playhouse in Hickman offers a couple of shows throughout the holiday season so you can find one that works for you and your family. Attending a show with your family or friends is a memorable experience to get you ready for all the holiday festivities.
From enjoying a performance together to bringing live music and entertainment to your own celebration, NCP offers ways to make the season more memorable.
This season, families and groups can enjoy one of NCP’s performances of Disney’s Frozen, or businesses and organizations can invite NCP’s Cabaret Singers to perform at their holiday celebrations.
During the holidays consider giving the gift of an experience. Experiences are full of opportunities to make memories, and sometimes the most meaningful ones happen when we try something new together.
Looking for a holiday gift or a night out downtown? Give the people you love something they’ll remember, and give your team a reason to celebrate together. Visit the Lied Center For Performing Arts (liedcenter.org). 
Planning for a large group? We make it easy, with exclusive discounts, flexible payments, early access, and priority seating.
Gathering a smaller crowd? Tickets for friends and family are available online. The best holiday memories are the ones we make side by side, and there’s no better way to feel the season than sharing a night in the room together.
At New Start Cleaning (newstartcleaningllc.com) homeowners can take some of that stress off their plates with professional cleaning services designed to help make the season a little easier.
Whether you are preparing your home for holiday guests, getting ready to host a festive gathering or trying to get everything back in order after the celebrations, New Start Cleaning offers customized cleaning solutions to fit your needs. For those hosting family and friends, a professional deep clean can help take care of the areas that often get overlooked when preparing for company. From kitchens and bathrooms to living spaces and other high-traffic areas, having a clean home can help you feel more comfortable and confident when guests arrive.
Holiday gatherings can mean extra dishes, spills, crumbs, increased foot traffic and plenty of areas that need a little extra attention. A professional cleaning can help homeowners start the new year with a fresh, clean space instead of a long list of chores.
As a Latina-owned business, community has always been at the heart of New Start Cleaning. The company is committed to creating opportunities and making a positive impact in the communities it serves. After years of serving Lincoln, New Start Cleaning is also expanding into the Omaha metro area, bringing its cleaning services and commitment to excellence to even more homeowners.
This holiday season, homeowners do not have to do it all themselves. Whether you need help getting your home holiday-ready, keeping up with the cleaning while entertaining or giving your home a fresh start after the celebrations, New Start Cleaning is ready to help make the season a little cleaner and a lot less stressful.
As the holiday season continues to unfold, remember that some of the best parts of this time of year aren’t found beneath the tree. They’re in the laughter shared around a dinner table, the excitement of finding that perfect gift, the memories made at a holiday gathering and the little moments that make the season feel special. Whether you’re planning a festive night out, treating someone to something sweet, checking off your gift list or giving yourself a break from the holiday hustle, Lincoln’s local businesses have plenty of ways to help make it all a little more magical.
And while the calendars may fill up quickly and the to-do lists seem to grow by the day, don’t forget to leave a little room for the fun too. Support a local business, try something new, gather your favorite people and enjoy the traditions that make this time of year so memorable. After all, the holidays are about more than checking every box on your list. They’re about celebrating the people around you, sharing a little kindness and making memories that last long after the decorations come down.
So, before the final cookie disappears from the plate and the last strand of twinkling lights is packed away, take a moment to enjoy all the festive fun happening right here in Lincoln. From our local businesses to your holiday table, here’s to a season filled with joyful moments, thoughtful gifts, full stockings and plenty of reasons to be merry. This year, let a little local love be part of your holiday tradition, because there’s truly no place like local for the holidays!