Throughout the holiday season, you can visit a wide variety of light displays and shows throughout the city. There is no better way to spread holiday cheer than admiring the twinkling lights and colorful displays in City Park, hotel lobbies, and beyond.

Celebration in the Oaks

This special, month-long lights show in City Park hosts hundreds of thousands of colorful lights and illuminated outdoor displays to showcase the holiday season in New Orleans. An annual tradition that began in the late 1980s, Celebration in the Oaks is a family-friendly event that only happens after dark.

Starting on Thanksgiving weekend, visitors are treated to a wide range of attractions by way of light displays. Take the 2.25-mile driving tour or walk through Carousel Gardens Amusement Park by foot to experience the lights. Perennial favorites include the animated Cajun Night Before Christmas display and the Who Dat Tree, imaginatively adorned in New Orleans Saints black and gold, and related football themes. Another favorite is New Orleans iconic snowman, Mr. Bingle, a holiday character beloved by generations of New Orleanians when he adorned the window of the old D.H. Holmes department store on Canal Street during the holiday season. Children and their parents are invited to take a two-mile ride on the miniature train that circles the park, passing underneath lit-up holiday displays and other special effects.

Hotel Lobbies

Many hotels in the French Quarter and CBD illuminate their lobbies with decorations– from lights and trees, to fake snow, and gingerbread houses. Thousands of lights are used to transform these spaces into a holiday dreamland. Even if you’re not staying at one of these hotels, it’s worth a visit. The Roosevelt includes a canopy of lights and an aisle of white Christmas trees, while the Ritz-Carlton has Santa’s toy shop. The Royal Sonesta has Christmas Tree Land, while the Windsor Court has one of the biggest trees in the city. Both Hotel Monteleone and Le Pavillon have various traditional decorations. Many participating hotels also offer Holiday Tea and visits from Santa, as well.

Greenway Supernova

Greenway Supernova is a free lights walk held on the Lafitte Greenway in Mid-City. It features installations from local artists and original art. Funds raised go toward the Greenway’s care and upcoming projects.

Lagniappe

Driving around town, you’ll find holiday decorations just about anywhere. From the Christmas Tree lighting in the French Market to illuminated houses along St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans really puts on a show when it comes to dressing up for the holidays. Take a streetcar ride when the sun goes down to see it for yourself.