Minden Opera House Hosts Holiday Events
(Minden, Nebraska) “There is truly nothing better than celebrating the Christmas Season in Nebraska’s Christmas City,” says Minden Opera House Executive Director Marcy Brandt. “We not only have one of the best views of the stunning lights on the Kearney County Courthouse, but we have some wonderful events on our stage to get everyone in the spirit.”
The 2024 Holiday season features entertainment for all ages. See below for a complete listing.
November 29: Miss Christmas City Pageant 7:00 pm
The Minden Community Players present the Miss Christmas City pageant. The Miss Christmas City pageant is held annually in Minden, NE where Miss Christmas City is crowned (not to be confused with the “Light of the World” pageant which is a pantomime held on the downtown square on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend and December 8 & 15, 2024). Pageant will begin at 7:00 pm. Tickets will be available at the door. Adults $10 / Students K-12 $5 / 4 & under FREE.
December 1: Nebraska Brass 2:00 pm
Founded in 1987, the Nebraska Brass is one of the Midwest’s most popular brass quintets. Audiences young and old enjoy the group’s serious musicianship and light-hearted humor as they present a variety of music ranging from classical to popular, Dixieland, and jazz. A staple in the MOH Christmas season, join the Nebraska Brass as they perform a variety of Christmas tunes in a variety of styles. General Admission tickets will be available at the door ($18).
December 1: Artist Reception for Christy Kosmicki 3:30 - 5:30 pm
Join us as we welcome artist Christy Kosmicki to the Minden Opera House Gallery. Free refreshments will be provided, and the reception is open to the public. Her show of mixed media work is titled “GENESIS: The 5th Day” and features stunning pieces based on the creation story.
Kosmicki believes that “the creation and study of art is a transformational experience that has the potential to expand the mind, challenge the human spirit and open up endless possibilities.” She exhibits in various 2D and 3D media and has shown her work in solo shows, joint exhibitions, and invitationals, receiving numerous awards for painting, mixed media, and sculpture.
December 6: Daniel Christian Band 7:30 pm
Award-Winning Singer-Songwriter Daniel Christian blends a pop/rock sensibility with country/folk roots. He weaves hooky, stick-in-your-head melodies backed by big harmonies with thought-provoking lyrical content. The result is a style of art and entertainment which, according to fans, “sounds like cinnamon rolls taste!” Backed by the Daniel Christian Band, Daniel brings Christmas favorites and originals to the Christmas City. Adults $20 / Students $10 The Nebraska Arts Council, a state agency, has supported this program through its matching grants program funded by the Nebraska Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Visit www.artscouncil.nebraska.gov for information on how the Nebraska Arts Council can assist your organization, or how you can support the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.
Christian says, "Music of the Christmas season is attached to so many special memories in my life. My bandmates and I are so honored to come back to the beautiful Minden Opera House in “Christmas City” to share an evening packed with holiday tunes! You’ll hear a couple of unique selections and original songs, but most of the show will feature loads of pepperminty classics and familiar favorites, from Santa, to snowfall, to the birth of our Savior. Can’t wait to see you there! Let’s make some Christmas memories together!"
December 14: Polar Express Family Event 6:00 pm
Presented by the Alma Lux Family. The annual event begins with the reading of the “Polar Express” book by professional storyteller Mary Henning. At the conclusion of the storytelling, cookies & hot chocolate are served (along with a special appearance by Santa Claus) with the feature film following the refreshments. The event is geared toward families with children ages 4th grade and under. Children are welcome to bring their pillows and come dressed in their pajamas for this magical Christmas event, but please limit to one pillow and blanket per child. Please note that most seating is on the theater floor.