12 Days of Lozafina, DAY ONE: Lauritzen Gardens
Nestled just south of downtown Omaha, Lauritzen Gardens is a beloved 100‑acre botanical garden and arboretum that invites visitors to connect with nature year‑round. Originally opened in 1994 as the Omaha Botanical Gardens, it has grown into one of the region’s most inspiring green spaces, combining peaceful landscape areas with dynamic educational and cultural experiences.
Lauritzen Gardens is the result of decades of thoughtful development and community support. From themed outdoor gardens and a four‑acre arboretum showcasing regional plant communities to specialized spaces like the Victorian garden and children’s interactive areas, the grounds offer something for every nature enthusiast.
At the heart of it all is the Visitor & Education Center—a stunning 32,000‑square‑foot facility featuring:
A floral display hall with seasonal exhibits
A horticulture resource library
Classes, events, and community programs
A café and gift shop that make every visit a delight for the senses
In 2014, Lauritzen Gardens expanded with the Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory, a gorgeous glass structure filled with tropical and temperate plants from around the world.
And in 2025, the whimsical Sofia’s Play Garden opened—an imaginative, nature‑inspired space built to spark curiosity, discovery, and joy in children of all ages.
Today, Lauritzen Gardens welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond, making it a cherished destination for families, garden lovers, and community members alike.
Check out the Bright Nights: A Holiday Tradition
Each winter, Lauritzen Gardens transforms into a sparkling holiday wonderland with its Bright Nights celebration. With thousands of twinkling lights, festive installations, and seasonal displays (like a 20‑foot poinsettia tree and glowing corridors in the conservatory), it’s an unforgettable way to experience Nebraska’s long winter nights.
Visitors can stroll the illuminated gardens, enjoy live music on select evenings, explore Sofia’s Play Garden under festive lights, and warm up by fire pits in the Family Chill Zone—where s’mores kits are available for cozy campfire fun.
This year’s Bright Nights runs on select evenings through early January, making it the perfect seasonal activity for families, friends, and couples alike.
12 Days of Lozafina Giveaway — Day 1
As part of Lozafina’s 12 Days of Giving, we’re thrilled to partner with Lauritzen Gardens to bring a bit of holiday magic your way!
Giveaway Includes:
- 6 Bright Nights tickets
- 3 S’mores kits (each kit makes six s’mores!)
That means 3 lucky winners will receive:
• 2 admission tickets for Bright Nights
• 1 s’mores kit to enjoy a cozy campfire treat
Event dates: Tickets are valid for select nights between December 26–31 and January 2–4, perfect for festive celebrations or a joyful night out.
Click here to enter or on any of our socials!
How to Enter
Follow these simple steps to join the fun
1️⃣ Follow Lozafina
2️⃣ Like this post
3️⃣ Tag a friend in the comments
Winners announced on December 23rd!
Terms & conditions: Lozafina.com
Connect With Lauritzen Gardens
Website: lauritzengardens.org
Facebook: Lauritzen Gardens
Instagram: @lauritzengardens
LinkedIn: Lauritzen Gardens, Omaha’s Botanical Center