Snow may not coat the ground and sledding may not be on the itinerary, but New Orleans knows how to throw an incredible Christmas. You’ll be feeling merry & bright this holiday season with these festive events all through December.
November 29 - January 1: Celebration in the Oaks
City Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting New Orleans, but in the wintertime, the best time to visit is in the pitch black of night. The spectacular oak trees are swathed in over a million colorful holiday lights and surrounded by beautiful light displays. Each year, the hard-working light artists create new and unique designs to enchant visitors. Grab a cup of cocoa and wander through the park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park for a new holiday tradition.
December 7th: Krewe of Jingle Parade
If you thought that the best parade of the season was on Thanksgiving in NYC, then you haven’t been to the Krewe of Jingle Parade on Canal Street. On December 7th at 1 pm, the street will be overtaken with elves, giant gingerbread man, nutcrackers, walking candy canes, and Santas marching to a choreographed dance. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season.
December 13-27: Holiday Shows at the Saenger Theater
Get into the holiday spirit with one of the several incredible shows hosted at the beautiful Saenger Theater.
- Lauren Daigle: The Behold Christmas Tour. Get into the holiday spirit with two-time Grammy award winner Lauren Daigle as she performs her favorite holiday songs off her jazzy Christmas album Behold: A Christmas Collection.
- A Christmas Story The Musical. You may have seen the movie, you may know the songs, but until you watch this Christmas classic live, you haven’t experienced the true magic.
- Delta Festival Ballet’s The Nutcracker with The Louisiana Philharmonic. Visit the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts to witness a magical rendition of the holiday classic The Nutcracker.
- Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. End your Christmas season on a high note with the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Watch toys and puppets come to life before your very eyes to Tchaikovsky’s storytelling score.
December 20-31: NOLA ChristmasFest
New Orleans’ ChristmasFest is one of the most family-friendly events of the season. Holiday-themed rides and activities will lift anyone’s spirit and leave you feeling merry and bright. Explore beautiful gingerbread houses, skate on the indoor rink, climb the candy cane wall, and shop for unique gifts at the Yuletide Market!
December 22: Caroling in Jackson Square
Join the city of New Orleans for their long-time tradition of spreading cheer this holiday season. Since 1946 Christmas Carolers have gathered in Jackson Square to fill the winter night with warm songs that celebrate this magical time of year. Thousands of people fill the square to sing along with the carolers. Song sheets and candles are provided and event-goers are encouraged to dress in festive attire.
December 22: French Quarter Holiday Home Tour
During the holidays, the gorgeous mansions and plantation homes are decorated in extravagant seasonal decor. From enormous Christmas trees to holiday-themed yards, these homes turn into a dreamy winter wonderland. On December 22nd, you can tour these magnificent homes across the different historic districts of New Orleans.
Get into the holiday spirit this year with one of these amazing events all through the month of December. From ice skating to gingerbread parades, and musical events, you can have the most memorable Christmas right here in New Orleans.
Ready to get into the holiday spirit this year? The Louisiana Bed & Breakfast Association boasts several one-of-a-kind inns, bed & breakfasts, and historic homes located in all corners of the state.