The little town of Creighton in northeastern Nebraska – not terribly far from Norfolk – is an unlikely setting for a must-see holiday attraction. But this tight-knit community has been hosting one of the area’s most anticipated Christmas displays for 23 years now – and you’ll want to see it.
SantaLand began as a fun community project all the way back in 1994. In those days, only a couple of local organizations were involved in setting up the lights and booths in Bruce Park.
Facebook/SantaLand
As the years went on and SantaLand earned a place in the hearts of locals, the display continued to grow and grow.
Facebook/SantaLand
Facebook/SantaLand
As people passed away or became unable to set up their personal lights and decorations every Christmas, those decorations were handed over to SantaLand.
Facebook/SantaLand
Facebook/SantaLand
These generous donations are only a part of the magic of SantaLand, though. It is truly a community project, and the entire community is dedicated to keeping it up and running every year.
Facebook/SantaLand
Facebook/SantaLand
An estimated 3,000 to 5,000 vehicles drive by the lighted outdoor displays every year. It’s a tradition for many families in the area. Even former Creighton residents who come home for the holidays look forward to seeing SantaLand.
Facebook/SantaLand
Facebook/SantaLand
Hundreds of thousands of lights along with lighted figures and characters make the enchanting winter wonderland drive memorable. If you have some time to linger, be sure to find Santa’s Workshop.
Facebook/SantaLand
Inside is a whole other level of wonderful. A working train chugs through the workshop, carrying a little mailbox that will take children’s letters right to Santa.
Facebook/SantaLand
Sweet little elves toil away, getting all of the toys ready just in time for Christmas. You can stop and watch them work while you have a little treat.
Facebook/SantaLand
Don’t forget to stop by to see Mr. and Mrs. Claus before you leave the workshop. There may be a line to sit on Santa’s lap, but it’s totally worth the wait when you see your little one’s eyes light up.
Facebook/SantaLand
The town of Creighton has really banded together to keep this delightful tradition alive over the years. Dedicated volunteers spend an estimated 2000 hours every Christmas season making all of this magic happen.
Facebook/SantaLand
The drive-through display opened for the 2017 season on November 22nd and will be open every day from 6 pm to 10 pm through December 31st. Starting on December 1st, Santa’s Workshop will also be open for business from 6 pm to 9 pm every night through December 23rd. Read more about this special project and the people behind it here.
Facebook/SantaLand
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