Fun, free, and sanity-saving ideas for the long holiday break

Thanksgiving week is here, and if you’re already hearing “I’m booooored” before the turkey even thaws, don’t worry. You’ve got plenty of budget-friendly, family-approved options right here in the Bellevue area. These Thanksgiving week activities for families will keep everyone moving, happy, and away from the screens (well… mostly).

Let’s jump in.

1. Grab Free Attraction Passes from the Bellevue Public Library

This is hands-down one of the best Thanksgiving week activities for families.

The Bellevue Public Library offers free family passes—first come, first served—to:

• Lauritzen Gardens (holiday displays are already up!) 
• The Durham Museum 
• The Luminarium 
• SAC Museum 
• Fontenelle Forest 

It’s a perfect opportunity to get out of the house without spending a dime.
Note: Passes don’t include separately ticketed events like Zoolightful or Bright Nights, but daytime visits are still a big win.

All of the local libraries have passes, and some may offer different ones. If you live in a SID and have to pay for a library card, did you know you can get it for free if you are active duty military? You can check out this gem and other military discounts in this blog.

2. Take Advantage of Sunday’s Beautiful Weather

Before temps drop later in the week, Sunday is shaping up beautifully.
Get outside and let the kids burn off energy with:

• Trails at Wakonda State Recreation Area 
• A nature walk at Fontenelle Forest (free with your pass!) 
• A visit to Kennefick Park to see the massive trains 
• The American Heroes Park playground 
• The fantastic Dream Playground at Lake Manawa 

If the kids crash early afterward… that’s what we call a Thanksgiving miracle.

3. Everybody is Kung Fu Fighting at AAMA

As the week goes on and Nebraska remembers it’s late November, move things indoors.

American Academies of Martial Arts in Bellevue is hosting trial classes on
Monday and Tuesday evening this week.

👉 Call (402) 731-5425 to reserve your spot.

Kids get movement and focus. Parents get peace. Win-win.

You can also check out our full list of winter options here:
➡️ https://martialartsinbellevue.com/winter-activities-for-kids-in-bellevue/

4. Go See Holiday Light Displays (Big Events + Neighborhood Gems)

Thanksgiving week is when the holiday lights start popping up everywhere.
Next weekend is full of official lighting ceremonies around Bellevue, Papillion, and Omaha.

But for something low-key and magical, pile into the car, grab hot cocoa, and go exploring.
We found the ultimate local guide from local realtor, Justin Ogburn. 

➡️ Justin’s Christmas Lights Blog
https://justinogburn.com/omaha-christmas-lights-2025/

Turn it into a game:

• Who spots the biggest inflatable? 
• Who finds the house with the most lights? 
• Who finds a blow-up Santa doing something questionable? 

Good times for all.

5. Get Ready for a Small Business Scavenger Hunt with a Military Twist

Just in time for Small Business Saturday, Justin is launching a fun, family-friendly scavenger hunt featuring:

• Local favorites 
• Veteran-owned businesses 
• New places you might not know yet 

It’s a great way to get out of the house, discover hidden gems, and support the community.
Watch your inbox for details!

6. Do a Simple Family Gratitude Ritual

Thanksgiving week activities for families don’t have to be all outings and events. Some of the best moments happen around the table.

Try this gratitude ritual (kids love it and it actually sticks):

1. Share something you’re grateful for about another person. 
2. Share something you’re grateful for about yourself. 
3. Optional: Write them down and save them for next year. 

The whole idea ties beautifully into our approach at AAMA.
Learn more here:
➡️ https://martialartsinbellevue.com/intentional-gratitude-martial-arts/

If you want to get more in depth, you can check out our list of 30 gratitude prompts. We’ve got separate one for kids and adults.  Click here to view the list. 

You’re Ready to Take On Thanksgiving Week

With these six Thanksgiving week activities for families, you’ll have plenty of ways to stay busy, stay connected, and stay sane. Whether you’re exploring trails, visiting local attractions, enjoying holiday lights, or coming to Kung Fu, you’re all set for a memorable break.