There's no better place to celebrate this festive season than the Big Easy. From dazzling parades and stunning light displays to traditional Réveillon dinners at your favorite local restaurants, New Orleans offers a unique holiday experience.
Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade
Kick off the holiday season with the 3rd Annual Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade, December 7, starting at 11 a.m. The parade will feature over 30 dazzling floats from Kern Studios, complete with animatronic props, special effects, and lighting.
Jazz Brunch with Santa at The Court of Two Sisters
Enjoy a festive brunch with a side of jazz at the Court of Two Sisters, one of the French Quarter's most beloved restaurants. On December 7, 14, and 20, Santa will be holding court, offering children a gift and the chance to share their wish list while enjoying live music in a beautiful courtyard setting. Reservations are required. Call 504-522-7261, ext. 24.
"Bonfire Adventure Tour" with Gray Line
Create lasting memories with a Louisiana-style Christmas Eve adventure on December 24. Gray Line’s Bonfire Adventure Tour includes a visit to Destrehan Plantation, a festive holiday meal, and a trip to see the iconic Christmas Eve bonfires. Gray Line also offers an all new “Cajun Holiday Bonfire Celebration,” the "Bonfire Express" Tour and the "Jingling Through the Crescent Tour" for those looking to experience New Orleans' holiday spirit in full. Learn more.
Candlelight Caroling in Jackson Square
One of the most heartwarming traditions of the season is the Candlelight Caroling in Jackson Square, hosted by the Patio Planters. On December 22, join in this moving event and enjoy beautiful carols by candlelight in one of the city’s most iconic locations. Learn more.
The Skivvies: Best In Snow
For a unique holiday party experience, head to Le Petit Theatre for The Skivvies: Best In Snow. Broadway stars Lauren Molina and Nick Cearley perform stripped-down versions of your favorite holiday tunes in this quirky, fun-filled show on December 17th and 18th. Click for tickets and more info.
NOLA ChristmasFest
Celebrate the season at the annual NOLA ChristmasFest at the Convention Center, December 20-30. This indoor holiday wonderland features rides, giant ice slides, an ice skating rink, gingerbread houses, and plenty of festive cheer. Learn more.
Celebration in the Oaks
For over 30 years, New Orleans’ City Park has dazzled visitors with its "Celebration in the Oaks" light display. Through January 3, you can explore 25 acres of magical holiday lights, with breathtaking live oaks adorned in hundreds of thousands of lights. Enjoy unlimited rides at the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and stop by the Botanical Garden’s outdoor bar for a festive drink. Learn more.
Christmas Eve Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
Make your Christmas Eve extra special with a jazz-filled cruise along the Mississippi River aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ. Enjoy live music, festive cuisine, and a breathtaking sunset as you celebrate the season on the river. Learn more.
New Year's Eve Celebration on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
Ring in the New Year on the Mississippi River with the Steamboat NATCHEZ’s New Year’s Eve Celebration. The night includes live entertainment, a special late-night menu, and stunning views of the city’s fireworks display at midnight. Learn more.
Fleur de Lis Drop
On New Year’s Eve, watch as the iconic Fleur de Lis drops at Jax Brewery in the French Quarter at the stroke of midnight. This festive tradition is a unique New Orleans way to ring in the New Year, complete with fireworks.
Allstate Sugar Bowl and New Year’s Day Parade
On New Year’s Day, the Allstate Sugar Bowl kicks off at the Superdome, one of the oldest and most exciting bowl games in the country. To add to the excitement, the Sugar Bowl Parade rolls through the streets of New Orleans on New Year’s Eve at 2 p.m., featuring floats, bands, and plenty of holiday cheer. Learn more.