OMAHA, Nebraska – Omaha residents and visitors to the metro celebrated the end of 2024 with a fireworks display.
The show took place at Riverfront Park and marks the 25th celebration of the Holiday Lights Festival.
“It’s a wonderful culmination of a celebration of the season,” said Kristyna Engdahl, MECA’s Vice President of Communications. “We’ve been enjoying the lights all season down through downtown Omaha. This really puts a cap on the end-of-year celebrations and gives the public something beautiful to look at.
Fireworks were launched on the east side of Heartland of America Park, near the river. The site provided numerous vantage points for attendees to view the show, including the Old Market and Gene Leahy Mall.
Attendees enjoyed a spectacular show while bundled up, drinking hot chocolate, and parking for free on downtown meters.
Some event attendees tell First Alert 6 that it is their first time seeing fireworks.
“Just the community, I love how everyone comes together as one; it’s very beautiful, and I enjoy it,” said resident Shamiah Buckley.
Rhonda and Steve Sell were celebrating Steve’s retirement and welcoming in the new year. Both had never watched the show before.
“The lights are beautiful coming down here, so that is real nice,” Steve told me. “Just seeing the fireworks for the first time, celebrating that occasion.”
Rhonda describes it as a perfect way to end the holiday season.
“I see a new year as a fresh start, with new beginnings and goals. We are excited about the future, so we look forward to it.”