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Christmas in New Orleans is a truly unique experience. While other cities are buried under snow and bundled in parkas, the Big Easy celebrates with a special blend of Southern charm, historic Creole traditions, and a whole lot of holiday cheer. It’s a time when the city’s legendary vibrant energy meets the festive spirit of the season. You’ll find ancient live oak trees dripping with thousands of twinkling lights, historic mansions decorated with dazzling displays, and a community ready to celebrate with music, food, and family. It’s no wonder people travel from all over to experience the magic of a New Orleans Christmas.
But with so many unique things to do, where do you even start? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the absolute best Christmas family events in New Orleans. We’ll cover everything from massive light festivals and traditional parades to historic dining experiences and musical performances. We’ll make sure you have all the details you need to plan a holiday trip your family won’t ever forget.
Holiday Lights & Dazzling Displays: New Orleans Glows Bright
Nothing says “Christmas” like a city lit up with holiday lights. New Orleans takes this tradition to a whole new level, turning parks, streets, and even the zoo into sparkling wonderlands. The holiday light displays in New Orleans aren’t just about decorations; they are a central part of the city’s festive season. They draw locals and tourists alike, creating a warm, magical atmosphere that you can’t get anywhere else. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera for these.
Celebration in the Oaks: City Park’s Majestic Light Festival
For over 30 years, Celebration in the Oaks has been the most popular holiday tradition in New Orleans City Park. This spectacular event is a massive fundraiser for the park, which is one of the oldest urban parks in the country. It’s a huge lights festival featuring more than a million twinkling lights spread across 25 acres. You’ll see centuries-old oak trees wrapped in countless strands of color, enchanting displays, and whimsical light sculptures. It’s not just a light show; it’s an immersive holiday experience that gets bigger and better every year.
Driving vs. Walking Tours: Choosing Your Experience
You can experience the festival in two main ways: a driving tour or a walking tour. The driving tour is perfect for families with younger kids or for chilly nights. It takes you on a two-and-a-quarter-mile path through the park, allowing you to see the magnificent light displays from the comfort of your car. Tickets are priced per vehicle and can be a great value for larger families.
The walking tour, however, offers a much more immersive experience. This option includes all-access passes to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the New Orleans Botanical Garden. You’ll be able to walk among the displays, get a closer look at the intricate sculptures, and take amazing photos. It’s a great choice if you want to spend a bit more time exploring. Tickets for the walking tour are priced per person. You can also combine both tours for a single price, which is a fantastic way to experience everything Celebration in the Oaks has to offer.
What to Expect at Celebration in the Oaks
Besides the stunning lights, Celebration in the Oaks is packed with activities. The Botanical Garden transforms into a fairytale landscape. You’ll see beautiful floral sculptures and lights that create a truly elegant scene. For families with children, the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park is a huge draw. It offers unlimited rides on its antique wooden carousel and other classic carnival attractions, all decked out in holiday flair. There’s also plenty of festive food and drink options available, from hot cocoa to beignets, so you can snack while you enjoy the show.
Audubon Zoo Lights: A Wild Wonderland of Holiday Cheer
Imagine the zoo at night, but instead of just seeing the animals, you’re surrounded by glowing, animal-themed light displays. That’s exactly what you get at Audubon Zoo Lights. This event turns the zoo into a sparkling wonderland with millions of lights and larger-than-life silk replicas of some of the zoo’s most popular inhabitants. You’ll see a giant, glowing peacock, a soaring giraffe, and a whole host of other creatures illuminated for the holidays. It’s a fun and festive twist on a normal zoo visit.
Animal-Themed Lights and Festive Fun
Audubon Zoo Lights is a great place to go for families who love both animals and Christmas. The displays are creative and often interactive. You can also take part in a variety of holiday-themed activities, like visiting Santa’s workshop, enjoying special seasonal treats, and listening to live music. It’s an exciting event that creates a nighttime experience the whole family will love. This is a must-do for any family visiting New Orleans in December.
Miracle on Fulton Street: A Downtown Winter Wonderland
Located just a short walk from the famous French Quarter, the Miracle on Fulton Street is a beloved holiday attraction. This pedestrian-only block transforms into a magical winter wonderland. While the name “Miracle on Fulton Street” might bring to mind a different famous movie, the experience here is all New Orleans. The street is decked out with thousands of lights, a towering Christmas tree, and even hourly “faux snowfalls.” The periodic snowfalls, while a bit of a trick, are a huge hit with kids who rarely get to see real snow in Louisiana.
The event also features a fantastic lineup of live music on Fridays and Saturdays, with performances from top local bands playing everything from jazz to blues. This blend of festive lights, music, and the illusion of snow makes it a must-visit spot. You can even get a picture with Santa! It’s a perfect place to feel the holiday spirit in the heart of downtown New Orleans.
Classic New Orleans Christmas Traditions: Old-World Magic
What makes Christmas in New Orleans truly special are the traditions that have been passed down for generations. These aren’t just events; they are a deep part of the city’s cultural heritage. They blend French, Creole, and Cajun influences to create holiday customs that are unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else. They’re a way to connect with the city’s rich history while making new memories with your family.
Caroling in Jackson Square: A Beloved Holiday Tradition
Picture this: thousands of people gathered in historic Jackson Square, holding candles, and singing Christmas carols together. That’s the scene at Caroling in Jackson Square, a free and non-denominational event that has been a New Orleans tradition since 1946. It’s an incredibly moving experience that brings the entire community together. The square is already beautiful, but seeing it lit by the gentle glow of thousands of candles while the sounds of classic carols fill the air is something you have to see for yourself.
The event usually happens on the last Sunday before Christmas. Song sheets are provided, so you don’t have to worry if you can’t remember all the words. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a real New Orleans tradition. It’s a peaceful, joyful event that is perfect for families of all ages. Don’t miss it.
Bonfires on the Levee: Lighting the Way for Papa Noël
One of Louisiana’s most visually stunning and mysterious Christmas traditions is the bonfires on the levee. On Christmas Eve, huge, often elaborate, wooden structures are built along the Mississippi River levees in St. James Parish, just outside of New Orleans. At sundown, these towering structures are set ablaze, creating a spectacular line of fire that lights up the night sky. While the main event is outside the city, there is often a smaller, more accessible bonfire in the Algiers neighborhood of New Orleans itself.
The Origins of the Bonfire Tradition
The bonfires are an old Cajun custom. The original purpose was to light the way for Papa Noël, the Cajun version of Santa Claus, to guide him on his journey down the Mississippi River. According to Cajun folklore, Papa Noël travels in a boat pulled by eight alligators, not reindeer. The bonfires are a way to ensure he doesn’t get lost in the dark and misty bayous. This tradition, with its unique blend of folklore and fiery spectacle, is a powerful reminder of Louisiana’s distinctive cultural heritage. Watching the flames rise against the dark sky is a magical sight.
Unique Family-Friendly Events and Activities
While the big festivals and traditions are incredible, New Orleans also has plenty of other fantastic holiday events that are perfect for families. These activities add to the festive atmosphere and give you a huge range of things to do, no matter what your family enjoys. From indoor winter wonderlands to culinary journeys, New Orleans has it all.
NOLA ChristmasFest: A Convention Center Extravaganza
When you think of New Orleans, you probably don’t think of ice skating. But at NOLA ChristmasFest, that’s exactly what you get! This huge, indoor holiday event is held at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. It’s a massive festival that brings all the fun of the season under one roof, no matter the weather outside. It’s a fantastic option for families who want to escape the sometimes-chilly December weather and enjoy a variety of activities in a single location.
Ice Skating and Carnival Rides: The Big Freezy
The main attraction at NOLA ChristmasFest is its indoor ice rink, affectionately called the “Big Freezy.” It’s New Orleans’ only real ice rink and a huge hit with both kids and adults. You can rent skates and glide around the ice, pretending you’re somewhere a lot colder. In addition to skating, the festival features carnival rides, giant inflatables, a “Kringle Carousel,” and a gingerbread village. There’s also the “Jingle Bells Stage” with live performances, storytelling sessions, and other festive entertainment. You can even take a picture with Santa, who makes daily appearances.
Holiday Parades: The New Orleans Way to Celebrate
Of course, no celebration in New Orleans would be complete without a parade! The city’s love for parades doesn’t stop after Mardi Gras. The Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade, also known as the Krewe of Jingle Parade, kicks off the holiday season in style. This large-scale parade rolls through the French Quarter and downtown, featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, and costumed characters. You’ll see oversized toy soldiers, dazzling floats, and even appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Unlike the boisterousness of some Mardi Gras parades, this one is specifically designed for families. It’s a festive, joyful event that brings the community together. Watching the parade go by is a classic New Orleans experience, and it’s a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit.
Réveillon Dinners: A Culinary Tradition
Réveillon (pronounced “reh-vee-on”) is a historic French tradition that has become a major part of New Orleans’ holiday culture. The tradition dates back to the 19th century when Creole families would return from midnight mass on Christmas Eve and share a large, celebratory meal. Today, many of New Orleans’ best restaurants, from fine dining establishments to casual cafes, offer special Réveillon dinners throughout the entire month of December. These are typically multi-course, prix-fixe meals that showcase the best of Creole and Cajun cuisine.
Finding a Family-Friendly Réveillon Meal
While some Réveillon menus are very high-end, many restaurants offer options that are perfect for families. You’ll find classic dishes like gumbo, turtle soup, and roasted duck, as well as special holiday desserts. It’s a great way to introduce your family to traditional New Orleans food in a festive setting. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary journey and a chance to participate in a piece of New Orleans history. Be sure to check with restaurants in advance, as reservations are often required.
Musical and Theatrical Holiday Performances
New Orleans is a city known for its incredible music scene, and the holiday season is no exception. Throughout December, you can find a wide range of musical and theatrical performances that will get you into a festive mood. These events offer a different kind of holiday magic, one that is centered on artistry and community.
St. Louis Cathedral Concerts: Free and Festive
For a more traditional and serene holiday experience, don’t miss the St. Louis Cathedral Concerts. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the St. Louis Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Every December, it hosts a series of free holiday concerts featuring prominent local musicians. You can listen to gospel choirs, jazz ensembles, and classical groups perform holiday classics in a truly breathtaking setting. The concerts offer a moment of peace and reflection amid the hustle and bustle of the season. They are a beloved tradition for locals and a great way for families to enjoy some beautiful music without spending a dime.
Holiday Theatre: The Nutcracker and Beyond
The holidays wouldn’t be complete for many families without a trip to the theatre. New Orleans has a thriving arts scene, and during Christmas, you can find several performances of classic holiday shows. “The Nutcracker” is a favorite, with multiple local ballet companies putting on their own versions of the classic ballet. Watching the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince come to life on stage is a magical experience for children and adults alike. There are also other holiday-themed plays and musicals happening around the city, so be sure to check local listings to find a show that’s perfect for your family.
The Best of New Orleans’ Holiday Charm: Beyond the Big Events
While the major events are fantastic, some of the most charming Christmas memories can be made just by exploring the city. New Orleans is full of hidden gems and smaller traditions that contribute to its unique holiday feel. Don’t feel like you have to stick to the big-ticket items. Sometimes, simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere is the best plan.
Hotel Lobbies and Decorations: The Roosevelt and More
Several hotels in New Orleans go all out with their holiday decorations, turning their lobbies into destinations in themselves. The most famous example is The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel. Its main lobby is transformed into a sparkling spectacle with thousands of white lights, beautiful Christmas trees, and garlands that seem to stretch forever. It’s an iconic display that’s free to the public and a huge favorite for photos. The Roosevelt also hosts a popular “Teddy Bear Tea” that’s perfect for families. Other hotels, like the Royal Sonesta and Hotel Monteleone, also have gorgeous decorations that are worth seeing. Taking a tour of these hotel lobbies is a great way to experience the city’s festive spirit.
Creole Christmas Holiday Home Tours: Stepping Back in Time
Ever wondered what’s inside New Orleans’ beautiful historic homes? During the holidays, you can find out. Several organizations, such as the Friends of the Cabildo, host “Creole Christmas Holiday Home Tours.” These tours take you inside private residences in the French Quarter and Garden District. You get to see the stunning architecture and learn about the city’s history while enjoying the festive holiday decorations. It’s a wonderful way to step back in time and get a glimpse of how people have celebrated Christmas in New Orleans for centuries.
Holiday Shopping in the French Quarter and Magazine Street
New Orleans is home to countless unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. The holiday season is the perfect time to explore these local businesses. You can find one-of-a-kind gifts that you won’t get anywhere else. The French Quarter, with its bustling streets and historic architecture, is a great place to start. Magazine Street, with its six miles of eclectic shops, is another fantastic option. The atmosphere is festive, and you’ll be supporting local artists and merchants. This is a great activity to do with older kids who enjoy shopping and exploring.
Making Your Christmas Memories in New Orleans
New Orleans during Christmas is more than just a place; it’s a feeling. It’s the taste of a Réveillon dinner, the sound of carols echoing through Jackson Square, the sight of bonfires lighting the way for Papa Noël, and the warmth of a community that loves to celebrate. It’s a unique blend of traditions and modern festivity that creates a holiday experience unlike any other. Whether you’re catching a parade, ice skating in a convention center, or simply admiring the holiday lights, you’ll find that the city truly lives up to its promise of being the “Big Easy.” We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and makes your family’s Christmas in New Orleans a magical one. So go on, jingle all the way, and make some incredible memories.
