Event Calendar

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

For the month of December we feature our Meowy Catmas special - purrformances JUST FOR MEW ORLEANS! Celebrate Christmas (or Catmas) with us by watching cats jump through wreaths, roll an ornament, push a sleigh, and performing an array of other seasonal tricks. Real rescued house cats that delight and amaze audiences of all ages.
There will also be a special appearance by The Rock-Cats (the only cat band in the entire WORLD!) playing seasonal holiday selections such as "A Cat in a Manger," "Catnip Roasting on an Open Fire," and "God Rest Ye Merry Kittens" (songs might not be performed as described).
Our Amazing Acro-Cat bus is also a mobile fostering unit for Rock Cats Rescue, helping cats and kittens across the nation find their furrever homes. Proceeds always benefit our cause of foster and rescue. Rock Cats Rescue has fostered and found homes for over 350 cats and kittens, some of them being from Mew Orleans!
This two-hour show has very limited tickets so we suggest buying online to make sure you get your seats. This show sells out! There is no intermission.
All tickets include the Meet & Greet which occurs immediately AFTER the show!

Event's last day is Sunday, December 22nd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen as the Victory Belles bring you the gift of song in a brand-new holiday concert! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six Band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony in this festive musical revue.

Luncheon Matinee:

• Luncheon Seating: 11:45 a.m. | Showtime: 12:45 p.m. 
• Members: $65
• Nonmembers: $68
• Show Only: $22

Show-Only Matinee:

• Showtime: 2:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Show-Only Evening:

• Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen with a brand-new musical revue from the Victory Belles! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony. Matinee luncheon available on select dates.
View Menu: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2024-07/national-ww2-museum-holiday-matinee-buffet-2024-menu-.pdf
12/11, 12/13, 12/17, 12/18, 12/19, 12/23: 11:45am - 2:00pm
12/15, 12/22: 2:00pm - 3:30pm
12/20, 12/21: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

New Orleans Ballet Theatre is thrilled to be bringing The Nutcracker back to its home at the Orpheum Theater in New Orleans this December. With nine performances in New Orleans, this beloved two-act ballet will be performed by the professional company and the charming addition of over 120 local children.

Come see this classic Christmas tale and experience the incredible talent that is New Orleans Ballet Theatre’s company of dancers, stunning sets and costumes, and the iconic score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The holiday season isn’t complete without The Nutcracker, and NOBT’s production is not one to be missed!

Performance dates are:

Friday, Dec. 13th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 14th: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 15th: 2:00pm
Friday, Dec. 20th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 21st: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 22nd: 2:00pm
Monday, Dec. 23rd: 2:00pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Tour the interiors and grounds of several stunning homes in the historic Garden District. Festivities also include live music, a boutique and more! 

For almost 50 years the Preservation Resource Center’s Holiday Home tour has opened the doors to beautiful Garden District homes during the heart of the holiday season. The tour has grown over the years to include live musical performances, a festive boutique and more! The Holiday Home Tour is held the second weekend in December and draws delighted attendees from across the country.

The Holiday Home Tour is one of the largest fundraisers for the Preservation Resource Center, and money raised helps protect the historic architecture, neighborhoods and cultural identity of New Orleans.

Ruby Slipper is hosting a Holiday Arts Market on December 14 and 15 at the Mid City restaurant located at 315 S Broad. Come visit for brunch and get some holiday shopping done while you're here!

🎄✨ A Christmas Carol - A Multimedia Production ✨🎄
Sunday, December 15th at 10am and 7pm.

Step into the whimsical world of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his journey of redemption. This timeless tale of generosity, compassion, and holiday cheer will fill your heart with warmth and joy, making it the perfect way to celebrate the season.

https://www.victorychurchnola.com/events/a-christmas-carol-a-multimedia-production/

In this December workshop we will learn to make Fire Cider (an immune system booster) and even take some home with us to keep for ourselves or give as a gift!
We'll explore how to craft herbal teas and connection with ourselves through the power of plants; unleashing your own kitchen witch✨

While you sip herbal teas, you'll allow for your intuition to speak to you during Melanie's guided meditation. An experience that is equally relaxing and empowering!

On December 15th, join us in the Pharmacy Museum's courtyard for our annual winter market. This year, the market will feature 12 local vendors selling art, jewelry, baked goods, and other giftable goodies! Enjoy the first floor of museum exhibits with no admission fee and support local artists at the same time. With a small donation to the Pharmacy Museum at the soda fountain, you can have your purchases gift-wrapped for you.

The Pharmacy Museum will also be accepting donations for New Orleans Community Fridges, a local community aid effort providing an opportunity for community members to access free food from community fridges. NOCF donations can be unopened perishables, canned goods, or unopened drinks (non-alcoholic).

Photo courtesy of Ashley Biltz Photography.

Get ready for the ultimate holiday shopping experience! Join us Sunday, December 15th, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM in our 17,000 sq. ft. warehouse, where you’ll find an amazing lineup of local makers, artists, and vendors alongside our stunning vintage furniture, art, and decor. It’s the perfect one-stop shop for unique gifts for others (or a treat for yourself!)—all under one roof. Don’t miss this festive event—we can’t wait to celebrate the holiday season with you!

For a true holiday treat, spend a delightful evening at The Historic BK House & Gardens. The 19th Century house, once home to noted author Frances Parkinson Keyes, will be decked in holiday finery reminiscent of Christmas past and will feature the harmonic sounds of The Big Easy Boys singing holiday tunes in the beautifully restored grand ballroom. Refreshments will be served. 5:30-7:30 pm. Tickets are $30 for nonmembers and $25 for members and may be purchased at www.bkhouse.org.

TOY GIVEAWAY

Join us Sunday, December 15 at 10am

This Christmas, we’re spreading joy to families in need with our Annual Toy Giveaway! Free Toys for children ages 1-11. Before the Toy Giveaway, we are showing A Christmas Carol, A Multimedia Production.

Please arrive at 9:30 am to check-in each child. Check-in closes at 10 am. First come, first served. The child must be present to receive a gift.

Located at 5708 Airline Drive Metairie, LA 70003

https://www.victorychurchnola.com/events/toy-giveaway/

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen with a brand-new musical revue from the Victory Belles! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony. Matinee luncheon available on select dates.
View Menu: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2024-07/national-ww2-museum-holiday-matinee-buffet-2024-menu-.pdf
12/11, 12/13, 12/17, 12/18, 12/19, 12/23: 11:45am - 2:00pm
12/15, 12/22: 2:00pm - 3:30pm
12/20, 12/21: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

The Skivvies return to Le Petit Theatre for their third year to perform classic Christmas tunes, comedic mashups, and nostalgic medleys. Their wildly absurd musical theatre moments are sure to bring joy and laughter during the holiday season. Surprise special guests join in the fun each night.

The Skivvies are Lauren Molina and Nick Cearley, singer/actor/musicians performing stripped down arrangements of eclectic covers and eccentric originals. Not only is the music stripped down - cello, ukulele, glockenspiel, melodica - but the Skivvies literally strip down to their underwear to perform.

Featured in People Magazine’s Hottest Bodies Issue and as Sports Illustrated’s Favorite New Band, The Skivvies’ award-nominated live shows feature celebrity special guests having wild fun, packed with big voices and crazy harmonies…but no pants.

Find out more on their website at theskivviesnyc.com

Recommended for teens and up.

Special Guests:
Kathleen Monteleone
Kimberley Kaye
Geneva Joy
Greg Kata
Raion Ramsey
Whitney Mixon
Nora Palka

(subject to change)

Nathan Ellman-Bell on drums 

Rob Morrison on guitar 

Event's last day is Wednesday, December 18th

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

For the month of December we feature our Meowy Catmas special - purrformances JUST FOR MEW ORLEANS! Celebrate Christmas (or Catmas) with us by watching cats jump through wreaths, roll an ornament, push a sleigh, and performing an array of other seasonal tricks. Real rescued house cats that delight and amaze audiences of all ages.
There will also be a special appearance by The Rock-Cats (the only cat band in the entire WORLD!) playing seasonal holiday selections such as "A Cat in a Manger," "Catnip Roasting on an Open Fire," and "God Rest Ye Merry Kittens" (songs might not be performed as described).
Our Amazing Acro-Cat bus is also a mobile fostering unit for Rock Cats Rescue, helping cats and kittens across the nation find their furrever homes. Proceeds always benefit our cause of foster and rescue. Rock Cats Rescue has fostered and found homes for over 350 cats and kittens, some of them being from Mew Orleans!
This two-hour show has very limited tickets so we suggest buying online to make sure you get your seats. This show sells out! There is no intermission.
All tickets include the Meet & Greet which occurs immediately AFTER the show!

Event's last day is Sunday, December 22nd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen as the Victory Belles bring you the gift of song in a brand-new holiday concert! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six Band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony in this festive musical revue.

Luncheon Matinee:

• Luncheon Seating: 11:45 a.m. | Showtime: 12:45 p.m. 
• Members: $65
• Nonmembers: $68
• Show Only: $22

Show-Only Matinee:

• Showtime: 2:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Show-Only Evening:

• Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen with a brand-new musical revue from the Victory Belles! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony. Matinee luncheon available on select dates.
View Menu: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2024-07/national-ww2-museum-holiday-matinee-buffet-2024-menu-.pdf
12/11, 12/13, 12/17, 12/18, 12/19, 12/23: 11:45am - 2:00pm
12/15, 12/22: 2:00pm - 3:30pm
12/20, 12/21: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

The Skivvies return to Le Petit Theatre for their third year to perform classic Christmas tunes, comedic mashups, and nostalgic medleys. Their wildly absurd musical theatre moments are sure to bring joy and laughter during the holiday season. Surprise special guests join in the fun each night.

The Skivvies are Lauren Molina and Nick Cearley, singer/actor/musicians performing stripped down arrangements of eclectic covers and eccentric originals. Not only is the music stripped down - cello, ukulele, glockenspiel, melodica - but the Skivvies literally strip down to their underwear to perform.

Featured in People Magazine’s Hottest Bodies Issue and as Sports Illustrated’s Favorite New Band, The Skivvies’ award-nominated live shows feature celebrity special guests having wild fun, packed with big voices and crazy harmonies…but no pants.

Find out more on their website at theskivviesnyc.com

Recommended for teens and up.

Special Guests:
Kathleen Monteleone
Kimberley Kaye
Geneva Joy
Greg Kata
Raion Ramsey
Whitney Mixon
Nora Palka

(subject to change)

Nathan Ellman-Bell on drums 

Rob Morrison on guitar 

Event's last day is Wednesday, December 18th

The New Orleans show is being held on Wednesday, December 18th at 6:30pm. Tickets are $35 with free admission for children ages 12 and under. The event is being held at Jesuit High School Auditorium (4133 Banks Street, New Orleans, LA). Tickets can be purchased at pauline.org/concert.
The Daughters of St. Paul Choir has been sharing the message of God’s love through live concerts and choral recordings for over forty years. Their annual Christmas concert tour is one expression of the wider mission of the Daughters of St. Paul, a religious community founded to proclaim the Gospel through all forms of media: from books, videos, and podcasts to music, speaking events, and Pauline Books & Media centers across the country.
The 2024 “Come to Bethlehem” tour features seven Daughters of St. Paul and an upbeat mix of contemporary and traditional Christmas carols. “Music has a way of opening us up to what our hearts desire most deeply: to know that we are loved by God,” said Sr. Margaret Timothy Sato, Choir Director. “Our Christmas concerts celebrate this love and invite people into it, no matter where they are or what their story is. Our upbeat program—which features music, choreography, stories, props, and a video wall—springs from the joy of the Gospel that characterizes our lives as Daughters of St. Paul. We pray that all who attend our concerts will experience this joy as well and leave with a deeper sense of God’s love for them.”

Sip Local! Shop Local! Support Local!

Beets & Brine brings together creativity and community for a unique evening of all things local.

This month Cerina Waterstone (Sylvain) will be tasked with creating a one of a kind cocktail menu using locally ingredients from the Once Around The Kitchen pantry and locally distilled spirits from Porchjam Distillery. DJ P.Filthy will be spinning holiday records while you shop the work of over 15 local artists for the perfect holiday gift.

Eat Oscar by Chef Melissa Araujo has Oyster Happy Hour from 5-7pm featuring $1 RAW & $1.50 CHARBROILED.

Experience a unique fusion of global sounds that will transport you.  

LET IT SNOW! December 18, 6pm-8pm

Get ready for the most wonderful Christmas event of the season! Join us for our annual Let it Snow Christmas Party on the Victory's side lawn!🎅🏼❄️

✨ Highlights:

❄️ Bubble Snow: Experience the magic of “snow” with your children!
🐐 Nativity Petting Zoo: Meet friendly animals and enjoy some hands-on holiday fun.
🚂 Holiday Train Ride: Take a ride through a winter wonderland on our festive train!
🍪 Food & Treats: Warm up with delicious holiday snacks, hot cocoa, and more!
🎅🏻Christmas characters and Christmas carols!

This is the perfect event to kick off the holiday season with your loved ones! Whether you’re riding the train, playing in the bubble snow, or enjoying the petting zoo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

https://www.victorychurchnola.com/events/let-it-snow-christmas-party/

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

For the month of December we feature our Meowy Catmas special - purrformances JUST FOR MEW ORLEANS! Celebrate Christmas (or Catmas) with us by watching cats jump through wreaths, roll an ornament, push a sleigh, and performing an array of other seasonal tricks. Real rescued house cats that delight and amaze audiences of all ages.
There will also be a special appearance by The Rock-Cats (the only cat band in the entire WORLD!) playing seasonal holiday selections such as "A Cat in a Manger," "Catnip Roasting on an Open Fire," and "God Rest Ye Merry Kittens" (songs might not be performed as described).
Our Amazing Acro-Cat bus is also a mobile fostering unit for Rock Cats Rescue, helping cats and kittens across the nation find their furrever homes. Proceeds always benefit our cause of foster and rescue. Rock Cats Rescue has fostered and found homes for over 350 cats and kittens, some of them being from Mew Orleans!
This two-hour show has very limited tickets so we suggest buying online to make sure you get your seats. This show sells out! There is no intermission.
All tickets include the Meet & Greet which occurs immediately AFTER the show!

Event's last day is Sunday, December 22nd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen as the Victory Belles bring you the gift of song in a brand-new holiday concert! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six Band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony in this festive musical revue.

Luncheon Matinee:

• Luncheon Seating: 11:45 a.m. | Showtime: 12:45 p.m. 
• Members: $65
• Nonmembers: $68
• Show Only: $22

Show-Only Matinee:

• Showtime: 2:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Show-Only Evening:

• Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen with a brand-new musical revue from the Victory Belles! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony. Matinee luncheon available on select dates.
View Menu: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2024-07/national-ww2-museum-holiday-matinee-buffet-2024-menu-.pdf
12/11, 12/13, 12/17, 12/18, 12/19, 12/23: 11:45am - 2:00pm
12/15, 12/22: 2:00pm - 3:30pm
12/20, 12/21: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in New Orleans. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Holiday Pop Classics and Modern Favorites at The Sazerac House under the gentle glow of candlelight.

Consider treating your friends and family to a Candlelight experience with our gift card! Check it out here

General Info
Venue: The Sazerac House
Dates and times: select your dates/times directly in the ticket selector
Duration: 60 minutes (doors open 45 mins prior to the start time and late entry is not permitted)
Age requirement: 8 years old or older. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult
Accessibility: this venue is ADA compliant
View the FAQs for this event here
Seating is assigned on a first come first served basis in each zone
If you would like to book a private concert or buy regular tickets for a large group (+30 people), click here
Check out all the Candlelight concerts in New Orleans
To treat your friends and family to a Candlelight gift card, click here

Tentative Program

Santa Tell Me - Ariana Grande
Wonderful Christmastime - Paul McCartney
Happy Xmas (War Is Over) - John Lennon and Yoko Ono
Mistletoe - Justin Bieber
I Need You Christmas - Jonas Brothers
Christmas Tree Farm - Taylor Swift
Little Saint Nick - Beach Boys
Do They Know It’s Christmas - Band Aid
Underneath the Tree - Kelly Clarkson
Glittery - Kacey Musgraves, Troye Sivan
Snowman - Sia
What Christmas Means to Me - Stevie Wonder
Merry Christmas Darling - Carpenters
Last Christmas - Wham!
All I Want for Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey

Performers

Listeso String Quartet
Seating Map

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

For the month of December we feature our Meowy Catmas special - purrformances JUST FOR MEW ORLEANS! Celebrate Christmas (or Catmas) with us by watching cats jump through wreaths, roll an ornament, push a sleigh, and performing an array of other seasonal tricks. Real rescued house cats that delight and amaze audiences of all ages.
There will also be a special appearance by The Rock-Cats (the only cat band in the entire WORLD!) playing seasonal holiday selections such as "A Cat in a Manger," "Catnip Roasting on an Open Fire," and "God Rest Ye Merry Kittens" (songs might not be performed as described).
Our Amazing Acro-Cat bus is also a mobile fostering unit for Rock Cats Rescue, helping cats and kittens across the nation find their furrever homes. Proceeds always benefit our cause of foster and rescue. Rock Cats Rescue has fostered and found homes for over 350 cats and kittens, some of them being from Mew Orleans!
This two-hour show has very limited tickets so we suggest buying online to make sure you get your seats. This show sells out! There is no intermission.
All tickets include the Meet & Greet which occurs immediately AFTER the show!

Event's last day is Sunday, December 22nd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen as the Victory Belles bring you the gift of song in a brand-new holiday concert! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six Band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony in this festive musical revue.

Luncheon Matinee:

• Luncheon Seating: 11:45 a.m. | Showtime: 12:45 p.m. 
• Members: $65
• Nonmembers: $68
• Show Only: $22

Show-Only Matinee:

• Showtime: 2:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Show-Only Evening:

• Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen with a brand-new musical revue from the Victory Belles! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony. Matinee luncheon available on select dates.
View Menu: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2024-07/national-ww2-museum-holiday-matinee-buffet-2024-menu-.pdf
12/11, 12/13, 12/17, 12/18, 12/19, 12/23: 11:45am - 2:00pm
12/15, 12/22: 2:00pm - 3:30pm
12/20, 12/21: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

New Orleans Ballet Theatre is thrilled to be bringing The Nutcracker back to its home at the Orpheum Theater in New Orleans this December. With nine performances in New Orleans, this beloved two-act ballet will be performed by the professional company and the charming addition of over 120 local children.

Come see this classic Christmas tale and experience the incredible talent that is New Orleans Ballet Theatre’s company of dancers, stunning sets and costumes, and the iconic score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The holiday season isn’t complete without The Nutcracker, and NOBT’s production is not one to be missed!

Performance dates are:

Friday, Dec. 13th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 14th: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 15th: 2:00pm
Friday, Dec. 20th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 21st: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 22nd: 2:00pm
Monday, Dec. 23rd: 2:00pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Get in the spirit of the Holidays and come and sing your favorite Christmas Carols at Rosella. This is a family-friendly event with fun for everyone. Hot Chocolate, cocktails, wine and dinner will be available for purchase.

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

For the month of December we feature our Meowy Catmas special - purrformances JUST FOR MEW ORLEANS! Celebrate Christmas (or Catmas) with us by watching cats jump through wreaths, roll an ornament, push a sleigh, and performing an array of other seasonal tricks. Real rescued house cats that delight and amaze audiences of all ages.
There will also be a special appearance by The Rock-Cats (the only cat band in the entire WORLD!) playing seasonal holiday selections such as "A Cat in a Manger," "Catnip Roasting on an Open Fire," and "God Rest Ye Merry Kittens" (songs might not be performed as described).
Our Amazing Acro-Cat bus is also a mobile fostering unit for Rock Cats Rescue, helping cats and kittens across the nation find their furrever homes. Proceeds always benefit our cause of foster and rescue. Rock Cats Rescue has fostered and found homes for over 350 cats and kittens, some of them being from Mew Orleans!
This two-hour show has very limited tickets so we suggest buying online to make sure you get your seats. This show sells out! There is no intermission.
All tickets include the Meet & Greet which occurs immediately AFTER the show!

Event's last day is Sunday, December 22nd

Towering bonfires are a Christmas festivity unique to the river communities just outside New Orleans. A Gray Line exclusive, this guided experience brings locals and visitors together for a Cajun dinner and bonfire at St. Joseph Plantation, a working sugar cane farm owned by the same family since 1890. Merriment flows as guests learn about Cajun and Creole holiday traditions, sing carols and tour the plantation by candlelight. Cash bar available for beer & wine. Advance reservations required. (Dec. 14 the house tour will be at the adjacent Felicity Plantation)

Event's last day is Saturday, December 28th

Towering bonfires are a Christmas festivity unique to the river communities just outside New Orleans. A Gray Line exclusive, this guided experience brings locals and visitors together for a Cajun dinner and bonfire at St. Joseph Plantation, a working sugar cane farm owned by the same family since 1890. Merriment flows as guests learn about Cajun and Creole holiday traditions, sing carols and tour the plantation by candlelight. Cash bar available for beer & wine. Advance reservations required. (Dec. 14 the house tour will be at the adjacent Felicity Plantation)

Event's last day is Saturday, December 28th

Join us for Teddy Bear Tea at BB’s Stage Door Canteen—the perfect holiday experience to share with your children and grandchildren! Featuring delicious food and sweet treats, live music from the Victory Belles, and a special visit with Santa, young guests will leave with a teddy bear and warm memories they’re sure to treasure for years to come.

Pricing:

Members: $77 

Nonmembers: $80

Join us for Teddy Bear Tea at BB’s Stage Door Canteen—the perfect holiday experience to share with your children and grandchildren! Featuring delicious food and sweet treats, live music from the Victory Belles, and a special visit with Santa, young guests will leave with a teddy bear and warm memories they’re sure to treasure for years to come.
Dates and Times:
• Morning Tea Seating: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (December 7, 14, and 21)
• Afternoon Tea Seating: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (December 14 and 21)
View Menu: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2024-08/national-ww2-museum-teddy-bear-tea-1224-menu..pdf

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen as the Victory Belles bring you the gift of song in a brand-new holiday concert! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six Band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony in this festive musical revue.

Luncheon Matinee:

• Luncheon Seating: 11:45 a.m. | Showtime: 12:45 p.m. 
• Members: $65
• Nonmembers: $68
• Show Only: $22

Show-Only Matinee:

• Showtime: 2:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Show-Only Evening:

• Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen with a brand-new musical revue from the Victory Belles! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony. Matinee luncheon available on select dates.
View Menu: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2024-07/national-ww2-museum-holiday-matinee-buffet-2024-menu-.pdf
12/11, 12/13, 12/17, 12/18, 12/19, 12/23: 11:45am - 2:00pm
12/15, 12/22: 2:00pm - 3:30pm
12/20, 12/21: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

New Orleans Ballet Theatre is thrilled to be bringing The Nutcracker back to its home at the Orpheum Theater in New Orleans this December. With nine performances in New Orleans, this beloved two-act ballet will be performed by the professional company and the charming addition of over 120 local children.

Come see this classic Christmas tale and experience the incredible talent that is New Orleans Ballet Theatre’s company of dancers, stunning sets and costumes, and the iconic score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The holiday season isn’t complete without The Nutcracker, and NOBT’s production is not one to be missed!

Performance dates are:

Friday, Dec. 13th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 14th: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 15th: 2:00pm
Friday, Dec. 20th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 21st: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 22nd: 2:00pm
Monday, Dec. 23rd: 2:00pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

How the Drag Queens Stole Christmas!
Twas the Night Before Christmas Eve and all through the house, not a creature was stirring....
Except for one Drag Queen!
And she needs YOUR help to SAVE CHRISTMAS!
Witness the unbelievable Tale of how 6 Drag Queens SAVED Christmas in this Holiday Cabaret!
You'll laugh! You'll cry! You'll sip hot cocoa in the front row! (if you get Front Row VIP)!
Don't forget your dollars to MAKE IT RAIN on these Drag Entertainers!!
Limited seating!
Prettieboi.com for tickets!
The Allways Lounge & Cabaret
This is a 21+ event
RSVP REQUIRED
NO REFUNDS
Prettieboishowcase@gmail.com

New Orleans, REJOICE!

After a decade of delighting rapturous sold out Seattle audiences with their critically acclaimed, smash hit holigay spectacular, Kitten N’ Lou are thrilled to finally bring their biggest most bombastic theatrical production home to New Orleans this December…. JINGLE ALL THE GAY!

This deliciously queer and delectably extravagant holiday confection featuring an internationally acclaimed all-star cast is guaranteed to make even the most stubborn yuletides gay.

Event's last day is Sunday, December 22nd

The sixth annual Jingle on the Boulevard Parade - a uniquely New Orleans holiday extravaganza - is set for Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024. Enjoy local marching bands, dance groups, floats, and seasonal fun.

Jingle on the Boulevard celebrates the holiday season throughout New Orleans East by highlighting the local retailers, restaurants, and shops along its trail. Follow along as the parade rolls down Crowder Boulevard to Haynes Boulevard, making its way to Read Boulevard and strolling all the way to Lake Forest Plaza. 

The vision behind the parade was to bring back family fun to District E in New Orleans East. Jingle on the Boulevard is now included as one of the many cultural events in the city to improve the quality of life for local residents and the flow of tourism. 

The parade is free to attend! Visit www.jingleontheboulevard.com for more information.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season with a special screening at the Prytania Theatres at Canal Place. Join Santa Claus himself as he kicks off the movie with a festive introduction, followed by a heartwarming and captivating film that will surely put you in the holiday spirit.
 
Tickets are only $10 and include a delicious bucket of popcorn and a refreshing soda to enjoy throughout the movie. Don't miss this opportunity to create lasting memories with friends and family as you experience the joy of cinema and the warmth of the holiday season together at Canal Place.

Once Around The Kitchen presents The Third Annual Bayou Gardens Art Market!
Featuring work by over 30 local artisans, the Bayou Gardens is the ultimate place to shop local this holiday season. From gourmet foods to candles, vintage wares to ceramics, we will have it all!
Live Music from 2pm-5pm
Amazing food & drink provided by the team at Bayou Beer & Wine Gardens!
21+
Doggo Friendly!

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

For the month of December we feature our Meowy Catmas special - purrformances JUST FOR MEW ORLEANS! Celebrate Christmas (or Catmas) with us by watching cats jump through wreaths, roll an ornament, push a sleigh, and performing an array of other seasonal tricks. Real rescued house cats that delight and amaze audiences of all ages.
There will also be a special appearance by The Rock-Cats (the only cat band in the entire WORLD!) playing seasonal holiday selections such as "A Cat in a Manger," "Catnip Roasting on an Open Fire," and "God Rest Ye Merry Kittens" (songs might not be performed as described).
Our Amazing Acro-Cat bus is also a mobile fostering unit for Rock Cats Rescue, helping cats and kittens across the nation find their furrever homes. Proceeds always benefit our cause of foster and rescue. Rock Cats Rescue has fostered and found homes for over 350 cats and kittens, some of them being from Mew Orleans!
This two-hour show has very limited tickets so we suggest buying online to make sure you get your seats. This show sells out! There is no intermission.
All tickets include the Meet & Greet which occurs immediately AFTER the show!

Event's last day is Sunday, December 22nd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen as the Victory Belles bring you the gift of song in a brand-new holiday concert! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six Band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony in this festive musical revue.

Luncheon Matinee:

• Luncheon Seating: 11:45 a.m. | Showtime: 12:45 p.m. 
• Members: $65
• Nonmembers: $68
• Show Only: $22

Show-Only Matinee:

• Showtime: 2:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Show-Only Evening:

• Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen with a brand-new musical revue from the Victory Belles! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony. Matinee luncheon available on select dates.
View Menu: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2024-07/national-ww2-museum-holiday-matinee-buffet-2024-menu-.pdf
12/11, 12/13, 12/17, 12/18, 12/19, 12/23: 11:45am - 2:00pm
12/15, 12/22: 2:00pm - 3:30pm
12/20, 12/21: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

New Orleans Ballet Theatre is thrilled to be bringing The Nutcracker back to its home at the Orpheum Theater in New Orleans this December. With nine performances in New Orleans, this beloved two-act ballet will be performed by the professional company and the charming addition of over 120 local children.

Come see this classic Christmas tale and experience the incredible talent that is New Orleans Ballet Theatre’s company of dancers, stunning sets and costumes, and the iconic score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The holiday season isn’t complete without The Nutcracker, and NOBT’s production is not one to be missed!

Performance dates are:

Friday, Dec. 13th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 14th: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 15th: 2:00pm
Friday, Dec. 20th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 21st: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 22nd: 2:00pm
Monday, Dec. 23rd: 2:00pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

New Orleans, REJOICE!

After a decade of delighting rapturous sold out Seattle audiences with their critically acclaimed, smash hit holigay spectacular, Kitten N’ Lou are thrilled to finally bring their biggest most bombastic theatrical production home to New Orleans this December…. JINGLE ALL THE GAY!

This deliciously queer and delectably extravagant holiday confection featuring an internationally acclaimed all-star cast is guaranteed to make even the most stubborn yuletides gay.

Event's last day is Sunday, December 22nd

We are partnering with our friends at Bacchanal Wine to take Sip & Shop to a whole new level with the Bacchanal Holiday Artisan Faire! Shop small this holiday season in the gorgeous Bywater backyard oasis lined with local artisans making 100% handmade wares from right here in New Orleans. Featuring work by over 15 of the cities most talented creators, there is no doubt you will find the perfect gift for your loved ones.

Grab a bottle from one of the hundreds of wines in the shop while you listen to live local music from the Tangier Combo at this Last Stop Holiday Shop!

This event is 21+

Since 1946, visitors and locals alike have gathered in historic Jackson Square to herald the season and spread holiday cheer. Thousands of people of all ages, backgrounds and religious affiliations, often decked in festive holiday attire, join together to sing popular Christmas tunes. Complimentary song books and candles are provided upon entry to the Square. The annual tradition is presented by the nonprofit organization, Patio Planters of the Vieux Carre, as its gift of the holiday season. Gates open at 6:30 and everyone is encouraged to arrive before then in order to secure their favorite spot for Caroling. Earlier in the day, Patio Planters also hosts a Holiday Home Tour from 12 - 4 pm as a fundraiser to defray expenses for Caroling in Jackson Square.

What is Caroling in Jackson Square?

Since 1946, Christmas Carolers have gathered in Jackson Square to spread holiday cheer. Each year the square is filled with Christmas songs and candle lights.Thousands of people gather in festive attire and of all religious affiliations. Courtesy of Patio Planters, the events major sponsor, both candles and song sheets are provided! Patio Planters is a nonprofit group dedicated to the horticultural beautification of the French Quarter. They also help fund the event through monies raised by its Vieux Carre holiday home tours earlier on the same day.

When is Caroling in Jackson Square?

The Caroling in Jackson Square will be held on December 22nd, 2024. 

Where can I find tickets to Caroling in Jackson Square?

The event is free and open to all who wish to participate. Those who plan to attend and participate are strongly advised to arrive early. This is a very popular event that sometimes exceeds the capacity of the square. Gates open at 6:30 PM.

Where can I find more information about Caroling in Jackson Square?

More information can be found on Patio Planters website.

Savor the holiday spirit as Patio Planters of the Vieux Carre presents a lovely collection of private homes dressed for the season. Residents of the Vieux Carre open their beautifully decorated homes for the self-guided walking tour which includes interesting architectural styles and home furnishings, as well as a variety of Christmas collections and holiday decorations. This festive event includes a refreshment stop and acts as a fundraiser for the highly anticipated Caroling in Jackson Square that takes place later in the evening. Ticket pick-up and day-of sales take place in the Cabildo alcove from 11 am - 3 pm. Some entrances are narrow and may not be accessible to strollers or wheelchairs.

Savor the holiday spirit as Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré presents French Quarter residences dressed for the season on December 22, 2024. The tour includes interesting architectural styles and home furnishings, as well as a variety of collections of Christmas decorations. This December fundraiser is a prelude to the highly anticipated Caroling in Jackson Square later in the evening.

The self-guided walking tour includes interesting architectural styles and home furnishings, as well as a variety of collections of Christmas decorations. This December fundraiser is a prelude to and helps provide funding for the highly anticipated Caroling in Jackson Square later in the evening.

French Quarter residents will open their homes for the self-guided walking tour between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM.

It's the most fabulous time of the year and we're decking the halls with glitter, glam, and bottomless mimosas! 🎄✨ Join us for a Holiday Drag Brunch on Sunday, December 22nd with The Divine Ms. Emms & Her Fabulous Femmes that'll jingle your bells and leave you feeling merry & bright! 💄👠

Tickets include a brunch buffet as well as a front-row seat to the divas – Lexis Redd DVille, Gia GiaVanni, Giselle Trivianni, and Ms. Jessica Emms! Please note that entertainer tips are customary and appreciated - please tip your divas!

$45 BUFFET ONLY ticket includes:
- Brunch buffet
- Drag show
- Cash bar

$60 BUFFET + BOTTOMLESS MIMOSA ticket includes:
- Brunch buffet
- Drag show
- Bottomless mimosas

Brunch buffet includes: fried chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits, and home fries.

The Attic opens at 10am with brunch starting at 10:30am and the show beginning at 11am sharp.

Limited seating is available and advanced purchased tickets are required for entry. We strongly suggest purchasing tickets on a single order for groups who wish to sit together. Please note that tables seat 8 guests – should you have less than 8 in your group other parties may also be seated at your table.

On the day of the event, please visit the host stand to check in with a photo ID (or copy of the photo ID) that matches the name of the person who purchased the tickets and the confirmation email associated with the order. From there, you’ll be seated in The Attic for brunch.

Event is nonrefundable, nontransferable, and guests must be 18+ to attend. Please note that The Attic is ADA accessible - an elevator is available to bring guests up to the second floor as needed.

Questions? Please feel free to call us at (504) 523-8995 or send us an email at neworleans@lucyssurf.com.

To purchase tickets, visit https://lucyssurf.com/shop

Revel in the beauty of the Cathedral Choir’s seasonal selections.  

NOLA String Quartet & Victory Music!

Sunday, December 22nd at 10am

🎻✨ Celebrate the Christmas season with the beautiful sounds of Christmas classics performed by the NOLA String Quartet and Victory Music! Catch the Wonder of Christmas afresh with a time of Christmas worship, carols and hymns. ✨🎼

https://www.victorychurchnola.com/events/nola-string-quartet-victory-music/

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen as the Victory Belles bring you the gift of song in a brand-new holiday concert! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six Band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony in this festive musical revue.

Luncheon Matinee:

• Luncheon Seating: 11:45 a.m. | Showtime: 12:45 p.m. 
• Members: $65
• Nonmembers: $68
• Show Only: $22

Show-Only Matinee:

• Showtime: 2:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Show-Only Evening:

• Showtime: 7:00 p.m.
• Members: $37
• Nonmembers: $40

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

Celebrate the holidays at BB’s Stage Door Canteen with a brand-new musical revue from the Victory Belles! Backed by the Museum’s own Victory Six band, the Belles will perform yuletide favorites in their timeless signature three-part harmony. Matinee luncheon available on select dates.
View Menu: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2024-07/national-ww2-museum-holiday-matinee-buffet-2024-menu-.pdf
12/11, 12/13, 12/17, 12/18, 12/19, 12/23: 11:45am - 2:00pm
12/15, 12/22: 2:00pm - 3:30pm
12/20, 12/21: 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

New Orleans Ballet Theatre is thrilled to be bringing The Nutcracker back to its home at the Orpheum Theater in New Orleans this December. With nine performances in New Orleans, this beloved two-act ballet will be performed by the professional company and the charming addition of over 120 local children.

Come see this classic Christmas tale and experience the incredible talent that is New Orleans Ballet Theatre’s company of dancers, stunning sets and costumes, and the iconic score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The holiday season isn’t complete without The Nutcracker, and NOBT’s production is not one to be missed!

Performance dates are:

Friday, Dec. 13th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 14th: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 15th: 2:00pm
Friday, Dec. 20th: 7:00pm
Saturday, Dec. 21st: 2:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, Dec. 22nd: 2:00pm
Monday, Dec. 23rd: 2:00pm

Event's last day is Monday, December 23rd

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

What is the Christmas Eve Bonfires on the levee?

There are many colorfully imaginative traditions dating back to the earliest Cajun settlers of the regions of southern Louisiana to the west and north of New Orleans. One of them is the lighting of the bonfires along the Mississippi River on Christmas Eve.

These bonfires, erected on the river levees by the keepers of this old tradition, are intended to light the way for “Papa Noël,” the Cajun Santa Claus, on his airborne journey to the area. Or, according to some sources, the bonfires may have also been a way of lighting the path to the nearest Catholic church for Midnight Mass.

The earliest bonfires on the levees were relatively simple in design and assembly, with long logs arranged into a pyramid-shaped cone, some as high as twenty feet. Shorter horizontal logs holding the structure in place gave it a ladder-like appearance. Most of today’s bonfires still incorporate that design, but more imaginative creations have since evolved. Some of the most elaborate structures resemble old Cajun cabins, pickup trucks and other indigenous cultural motifs.

When is the Christmas Eve Bonfires on the levee?

At dusk, usually around 7:00 p.m., the structures are doused with flammable liquids and set ablaze, lighting the sky and the surrounding area with towering flames that would be impossible for Papa Noël and his reindeer to miss. The crowds that gather to watch these spectacular conflagrations enjoy a free show and, in some locales, free bowls of hot gumbo are served up by local residents. The blazes are often accompanied by displays of fireworks, set off by the fires themselves.

Where is the Christmas Eve Bonfires on the levee?

These Christmas Eve bonfires are most commonly found in St. James Parish (county), some 30-40 miles upriver from New Orleans. As many as 100 or more bonfires may be erected in the adjoining communities of Gramercy, Lutcher and Paulina, and more may be scattered in other locations in St. James and neighboring parishes.

The fire departments in these locales supervise the activity around the bonfires on the levees, maintaining a safe perimeter for the crowds while keeping vigil to make sure the fires stay under control. Unfavorable weather can force cancellation or postponement of the bonfires, but this has happened only once in recent memory – in 1982.

Private vehicular traffic in the areas of heaviest bonfire concentration may be restricted or even banned. Special parking lots are set up within comfortable walking distance of some of those areas. However, traffic leading up to those areas can be heavy, especially within the last few hours before the bonfires are lit. An early arrival is strongly encouraged.

One of the best ways to ensure “a good seat” for a bonfire on the levee is to book a narrated motor coach excursion with Gray Line Tours. Two options are available: the four-hour Christmas Eve Bonfire Express, which only includes the bonfires, and the 6½-hour Christmas Eve Bonfire Adventure Tour, which includes a tour of San Francisco Plantation and a holiday dinner there.

Where can I find more information about the Christmas Eve Bonfires on the levee?

Both tours originate and terminate at the Gray Line Lighthouse ticket office located at Toulouse Street and the Mississippi River, adjacent to the steamboat Natchez wharf. Reservations are recommended 24 hours in advance. Call (504) 569-1401 or (800) 233-2628 or visit their website, www.graylineneworleans.com/holiday-tours.html for further details.

For those who prefer to “stay home” and watch a bonfire here in New Orleans, the Algiers Economic Development Foundation sponsors one annually, early in December on the levee in Algiers Point. The site is on the west bank of New Orleans, near a bend in the river directly opposite the French Quarter. It can be viewed from the Moonwalk adjacent to Woldenberg Riverfront Park or from Algiers Point itself. The Canal Street-Algiers Point Ferry carries passengers from downtown New Orleans to the vicinity of the bonfire site.

The AEDF website and Algiers Bonfire website contain details and photos about the organization and event. The tradition takes place in early December and features live music, a second line, and the bonfire lighting.

Event's last day is Wednesday, December 24th

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

Celebrate a time-honored Louisiana tradition – the lighting of the bonfires on the banks of the Mississippi River! The Bonfire Adventure Tour includes round-trip narrated motor coach transportation to Destrehan Plantation along with a traditional holiday dinner and sweet treats, concluding with a visit to the bonfires along the Mississippi River levee in Gramercy, LA. to view the bonfires that light the way for Papa Noel (our Cajun Santa Claus) to bayou country.

Celebrate a time-honored Louisiana tradition – the lighting of the bonfires on the banks of the Mississippi River! The Bonfire Express Tour includes round-trip narrated motor coach transportation to view the bonfires that light the way for Papa Noel (our Cajun Santa Claus) to bayou country.

Join us for an elegant Christmas Eve celebration on the Mighty Mississippi River! Take in the beauty of the New Orleans skyline as you enjoy live jazz music and holiday tunes by the DUKES of Dixieland. Indulge in a special Creole-style Christmas Eve Dinner Menu or try a delicious beverage from our Holiday Cocktail Menu. Your family will love awaiting Santa Claus aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ.

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

A fully narrated tour of New Orleans neighborhoods decorated for the holidays. See the French Quarter, Esplanade Avenue, Faubourg Tremé, City Park, Carrollton Avenue, St. Charles Avenue, Audubon Park, and the Garden District. A tour highlight and ultimate photo opportunity is strolling through the exquisitely decorated lobby of the Roosevelt Hotel, a longstanding local tradition.

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

Step into a holiday wonderland this season at “The Spirit of Christmas,” a dazzling family-friendly event and fundraiser benefiting the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center (gnotrc.org GNOTRC). Presented in partnership with Destrehan Plantation (destrehanplantation.org), this festive experience lights up the season with fun, food, and holiday cheer for all ages. Held nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 PM, November 29 through December 26 (closed on Christmas Day), the event promises unforgettable memories while supporting a great cause.

Weather Notice: The event will be closed in case of rain.

Named after one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses, Spirit, this event is more than just holiday lights – it’s an enchanting 1/4 mile walking tour through five acres of majestic oak trees, adorned with over 60 illuminated frames, 50 Christmas trees, and a magical lighted tunnel. And don’t miss “The Cajun Night Before Christmas” by Trosclair, adding a unique Southern twist to the festivities!

Activities for All Ages:
Photos with Santa (check gnotrc.org for dates)
Santa’s Workshop
Duck races and holiday games
Christmas caroling and cheerful stand-ins
Light projections and sparkling decorations
Holiday treats and snacks (available for purchase)
Pony rides for the little ones (small fee applies)
Admission is only $5 per person, and children four and under attend free. Plus, free parking makes it easy to bring the whole family.

Supporting GNOTRC’s Mission
All proceeds from “The Spirit of Christmas” benefit GNOTRC, a nonprofit organization in LaPlace, LA, dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. Through the bond with a horse, riders experience improved balance, muscle control, confidence, and emotional well-being. This event will help sustain a year of programming, allowing GNOTRC to continue its essential work in the community.

Mark your calendar and bring the family to experience the season's joy at “The Spirit of Christmas.” This is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Event Details:

When: November 29 – December 26, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM (closed Christmas Day)

Where: Destrehan Plantation, Destrehan, LA, off Exit 6 from I-310

Admission: $5 per person; Free for children four and under. Purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time online at gnotrc.org.

Parking: Free

For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, or directions, please visit gnotrc.org or contact Anita Hefler, Executive Director of GNOTRC, at (504) 453-5509.

Come join “The Spirit of Christmas” and make brighter memories than the lights!

Event's last day is Thursday, December 26th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

Towering bonfires are a Christmas festivity unique to the river communities just outside New Orleans. A Gray Line exclusive, this guided experience brings locals and visitors together for a Cajun dinner and bonfire at St. Joseph Plantation, a working sugar cane farm owned by the same family since 1890. Merriment flows as guests learn about Cajun and Creole holiday traditions, sing carols and tour the plantation by candlelight. Cash bar available for beer & wine. Advance reservations required. (Dec. 14 the house tour will be at the adjacent Felicity Plantation)

Event's last day is Saturday, December 28th

Towering bonfires are a Christmas festivity unique to the river communities just outside New Orleans. A Gray Line exclusive, this guided experience brings locals and visitors together for a Cajun dinner and bonfire at St. Joseph Plantation, a working sugar cane farm owned by the same family since 1890. Merriment flows as guests learn about Cajun and Creole holiday traditions, sing carols and tour the plantation by candlelight. Cash bar available for beer & wine. Advance reservations required. (Dec. 14 the house tour will be at the adjacent Felicity Plantation)

Event's last day is Saturday, December 28th

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

Friends of the Cabildo presents: 2024 Creole Christmas – December 27th- 29th
Step back in time and join the Friends of the Cabildo for a tour of the French Quarter’s most cherished properties adorned in traditional Creole Christmas finery befitting the time and style of each historic residence!

The 46th- annual Creole Christmas will be December 27th- 29th from 10 a.m, – 3 p.m. Historic Houses include the Historic BK House & Gardens, Gallier House, Hermann-Grima House, 1850 House, Spring Fiesta Association Home and a bonus at the Historic New Orleans Collection a. All houses will have their courtyards open to enjoy on the tour as well. Tickets will be daily limited so don’t miss a chance to get out and enjoy the Christmas season in period-decorated historic homes.

This year’s Creole Christmas takes place December 27th – 29th. Tour session runs from 10:00 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tours are self-guided and begin at the 1850 House at 523 St. Ann Street. Tickets are $30 for members, $40 for general admission. Purchase tickets at www.friendsofthecabildo.org or by calling 504.523.3939. The remaining limited unsold day-of tickets are available at the 1850 House, 504.524.9118.

For more information, please contact Jason Strada at 504.523.3939 or jason@friendsofthecabildo.org.

Event's last day is Sunday, December 29th

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

Towering bonfires are a Christmas festivity unique to the river communities just outside New Orleans. A Gray Line exclusive, this guided experience brings locals and visitors together for a Cajun dinner and bonfire at St. Joseph Plantation, a working sugar cane farm owned by the same family since 1890. Merriment flows as guests learn about Cajun and Creole holiday traditions, sing carols and tour the plantation by candlelight. Cash bar available for beer & wine. Advance reservations required. (Dec. 14 the house tour will be at the adjacent Felicity Plantation)

Event's last day is Saturday, December 28th

Towering bonfires are a Christmas festivity unique to the river communities just outside New Orleans. A Gray Line exclusive, this guided experience brings locals and visitors together for a Cajun dinner and bonfire at St. Joseph Plantation, a working sugar cane farm owned by the same family since 1890. Merriment flows as guests learn about Cajun and Creole holiday traditions, sing carols and tour the plantation by candlelight. Cash bar available for beer & wine. Advance reservations required. (Dec. 14 the house tour will be at the adjacent Felicity Plantation)

Event's last day is Saturday, December 28th

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

Friends of the Cabildo presents: 2024 Creole Christmas – December 27th- 29th
Step back in time and join the Friends of the Cabildo for a tour of the French Quarter’s most cherished properties adorned in traditional Creole Christmas finery befitting the time and style of each historic residence!

The 46th- annual Creole Christmas will be December 27th- 29th from 10 a.m, – 3 p.m. Historic Houses include the Historic BK House & Gardens, Gallier House, Hermann-Grima House, 1850 House, Spring Fiesta Association Home and a bonus at the Historic New Orleans Collection a. All houses will have their courtyards open to enjoy on the tour as well. Tickets will be daily limited so don’t miss a chance to get out and enjoy the Christmas season in period-decorated historic homes.

This year’s Creole Christmas takes place December 27th – 29th. Tour session runs from 10:00 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tours are self-guided and begin at the 1850 House at 523 St. Ann Street. Tickets are $30 for members, $40 for general admission. Purchase tickets at www.friendsofthecabildo.org or by calling 504.523.3939. The remaining limited unsold day-of tickets are available at the 1850 House, 504.524.9118.

For more information, please contact Jason Strada at 504.523.3939 or jason@friendsofthecabildo.org.

Event's last day is Sunday, December 29th

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

Friends of the Cabildo presents: 2024 Creole Christmas – December 27th- 29th
Step back in time and join the Friends of the Cabildo for a tour of the French Quarter’s most cherished properties adorned in traditional Creole Christmas finery befitting the time and style of each historic residence!

The 46th- annual Creole Christmas will be December 27th- 29th from 10 a.m, – 3 p.m. Historic Houses include the Historic BK House & Gardens, Gallier House, Hermann-Grima House, 1850 House, Spring Fiesta Association Home and a bonus at the Historic New Orleans Collection a. All houses will have their courtyards open to enjoy on the tour as well. Tickets will be daily limited so don’t miss a chance to get out and enjoy the Christmas season in period-decorated historic homes.

This year’s Creole Christmas takes place December 27th – 29th. Tour session runs from 10:00 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tours are self-guided and begin at the 1850 House at 523 St. Ann Street. Tickets are $30 for members, $40 for general admission. Purchase tickets at www.friendsofthecabildo.org or by calling 504.523.3939. The remaining limited unsold day-of tickets are available at the 1850 House, 504.524.9118.

For more information, please contact Jason Strada at 504.523.3939 or jason@friendsofthecabildo.org.

Event's last day is Sunday, December 29th

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

Where holiday magic meets the afterlife…
Festive garlands.
The cheerful glow of twinkling lights.
Even the permanent residents of the French Quarter are a little extra ‘spirited’ over the holidays.

But as joyful lights bring luminance to the city, dark things lurk year round.

Follow our enchanting French Quarter Fairy for a special, holiday-themed ghosts and legends tour. Hear tales of the shape-shifting Rougarou ready to snatch naughty children. Uncover the true crimes committed by evil socialite Madame Lalaurie. And since no holiday experience is complete without mentioning the Big Man himself, learn how Christmas Eve bonfires are used to lure Papa Noel.

This family-friendly excursion will surely become a favorite holiday memory! Limited to just 9 people per group, advanced booking is required.

Event's last day is Sunday, January 5th

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

From December 20 - 30, experience NOLA ChristmasFest - the Crescent City's signature holiday celebration. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this indoor holiday celebration is fun for the whole family.

Returning with the theme “Best in Snow,” the Convention Center invites locals and visitors to enjoy a variety of festive attractions including fan favorites the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House. There will be live music, concessions, visits with Santa and his friends and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink returns along with ice bocce and, new this year, a FOURTH ice slide! Also added this year, Merry Mini Golf and the Yuletide YoYo ride will enhance the enchantment of NOLA ChristmasFest’s 300,000 square feet of indoor holiday fun.

The ice skating rink is fun for all. Made of real ice, the wintery wonderland extends 52 feet by 140 feet. While skaters are welcome to bring their own skates, a range of sizes will available onsite. This new attraction is sure to brighten up holiday plans for visitors and locals alike. Get ready to bring the entire family to show their best camel spins, cross strokes and more ice skating moves, while enjoying the Crescent City at its finest holiday event.

Additional Entertainment

This family-friendly celebration in the Crescent City’s Warehouse/Arts District will also feature two miles of lights (both indoors and outdoors!) and indoor Christmas activities. Kids of all ages will have a chance to meet special Christmas characters such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, and all their friends. Professional photographers will be on hand to capture your special holiday memories and autographs will be available from all characters throughout the event.

The Kringle Carousel, Winter Whirl, Amazing Funhouse Maze, Snowy Summit Climbing Wall and other carnival rides and inflatables are just a few of the many attractions that await children out of school for the holidays.

NOLA ChristmasFest Tickets 

Ticket prices are $25 during weekdays and $30 on Saturday/Sunday (plus ticketing fees). Tickets are non-refundable and good for a single admission at the specific timeframe AND the specific day you choose.

General admission tickets include access to all rides and activities within the festival. Add-ons such as images with Santa Claus can be purchased at an additional cost. Individual ticket purchase is required on those ages 2 and up.

In 2024, there will be timed entries (most days will include a morning session and an afternoon session). Each session is 4.5 hours in length (except for Christmas Day). Book your timed entry slot here. To maximize your time slot, please come on time. Each time slot has a limited capacity and some popular time slots will sell out. Please make your plans early to receive your desired date and time.

Locals and visitors alike are invited to celebrate the Christmas season in New Orleans at NOLA ChristmasFest. Reserve parking in advance via ParkMobile. For details about ticket prices and festival hours/dates, visit NOLAChristmasFest.com.

Event's last day is Monday, December 30th

The countdown to NYE is on and the biggest New Years Eve Gala in town is moving to a new location to bring in 2024! Big Night New Orleans features the Ying-Yang Twins, the Soul Rebels and many more!

Beer, wine, champagne and liquor will be available. Food and drink selection varies depending on ticket level. Formal and festive attire is encouraged!

Big Night New Orleans offers various ticket levels including all-inclusive, seating, and VIP. VIP tickets includes food and drinks. Party favors are given to all! See the official website for more information. You must be 21 or older to attend. Each person must be present at check-in.

For hotel options, visit https://www.bignightneworleans.com/hotels/ .

Event's last day is Wednesday, December 31st

Celebrate New Years Eve on a Bourbon Street Balcony with 3 hours of open premium bar, champagne toast and New Year's Eve party favors. Guests can enjoy cocktails with the bead tossing balcony extravaganza to ring in 2024. Have a destination "above the crowd" waiting for you after dinner on World Famous Bourbon Street for New Year's Eve! Be in the mix of the madness without being in the crowd!

***For all guests to have the opportunity to throw beads on the front row there will be a balcony rotation.***

***Beads and balcony throws not included.***

Event's last day is Wednesday, December 31st

Celebrate New Year's Eve on Bourbon Street with 4 Hours Open Premium Bar, Midnight Champagne Toast, New Year's Eve Party Favors, Balcony Access with our DJ to keep the dance floor lit. Guests can enjoy unlimited premium cocktails, tossing beads from the balcony and dancing the night away to ring in 2024. Have a destination awaiting you and your guests at prime time on World Famous Bourbon Street for New Year's Eve!

***The balcony will rotate so all guests have the opportunity to be on the front row tossing beads to the crowds on Bourbon Street.***

***Beads are not included.***

***We refer our guests to a local wholesaler that delivers to us to have your beads and balcony throws waiting for you.***

Event's last day is Wednesday, December 31st

Visit Gallier House to view “A 19th-Century Christmas” exhibition, which runs November 15, 2024 until January 6, 2025. Tours are offered six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tour the private family home of famous New Orleans architect James Gallier, Jr. as it would have looked for Christmas with his family in the mid nineteenth-century. Gallier house is an architectural gem and the perfect example of a French Quarter townhouse. Guests will learn about Christmas customs of the day including holiday décor, religious traditions, reveillon dinners, and the experience of enslaved men and women and later domestic servants who made the such holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

View Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House in holiday dress while learning about 19th-century life from November 13, 2024 - January 6, 2025. Open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Tours will discuss 19th-century Christmas and New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans, including gift-giving, holiday meals, seasonal displaying and decorating, and how the season’s activities would impact the lives of the enslaved people laboring on the property.

Discover Creole holiday traditions from the 19th-century while touring the Hermann-Grima house and slave quarters, an example of historic preservation and interpretation in the French Quarter. The culmination of the Creole holiday season was a New Year’s Day celebration, when New Orleanians exchanged gifts and called on one another. While on tour visitors will learn about local methods of holiday decorating, culinary traditions, and the experience of the enslaved men and women who made the fanciful holiday celebrations possible.

Event's last day is Monday, January 6th

EVENT DETAILS

Celebration in the Oaks

What is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual festivity consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in New Orleans during the holidays. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, enjoy one of the most spectacular, family-friendly holiday light displays in New Orleans and the country. Watch as the grounds of New Orleans City Park are transformed into 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are all captured with hundreds of thousands of lights to create a winter wonderland here in the Big Easy. 

Enjoy the scene of illuminated oak trees with a Driving Tour throughout the Park. Over a million lights will be scattered throughout the 2.25-mile drive to set the scene for the holiday season to come. You can also book a Walking Tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. 

Adults ages 21+ can get a sneak peek of Celebration in the Oaks at Jingle Bells & Beer.

When is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks goes on for a whole month! This season, the New Orleans holiday tradition will run from November 29 and on select nights through January 3, 2025.

Where is Celebration in the Oaks?

Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday event in City Park. Choose from the Driving Tour or Walking Tour through the Garden. Those who arrive by private vehicles will find ample parking on-site to make seeing New Orleans Christmas lights easy. The entrance to the Driving Tour is 4 Frederichs Ave.

When did Celebration in the Oaks start?

Celebration in the Oaks started in the late 1980s at New Orleans City Park, filling the grounds with festive lights and decorations each year. The annual holiday tradition has since become a local favorite, drawing thousands of visitors to stroll through beautiful displays nestled among the Park’s historic oak trees and gardens.

Where can I find tickets to Celebration in the Oaks?

Purchase tickets to Celebration in the Oaks here!

Where can I find more information about Celebration in the Oaks?

More information about Celebration in the Oaks can be found on their website.

Celebration's Preview Party 2024

What is Celebration's Preview Party?

Celebration offers two ticket levels so that you may design your own Preview Party experience!

Garden Party Ticket: Sip on signature cocktails and enjoy an array of bites from local restaurants in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Tickets are $100.

Jingle Bells & Beer Ticket: Experience the excitement of the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, beer and merriment. Tickets are $40.

Both events are 21+. Proceeds benefit the continued beautification and preservation of New Orleans City Park’s 1,300 acres.

When is Celebration's Preview Party? 

Celebration's Preview Party is on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Where can I buy tickets for Celebration's Preview Party?

Purchase your tickets for the Garden Party and/or Jingle Bells & Beer here.

Where can I find more information about Celebration's Preview Party?

Looking to learn more about Celebration's Preview Party? Find more information here.

Event's last day is Friday, January 3rd

The New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will take you to relive the magic of the famous movie through a one hour journey from the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Enjoy the soundtrack and transport yourself into the magic. Hot chocolate, cookies, and characters fill the train.

During the trip, you can expect to be greeted by Santa and his helpers while enjoying live entertainment. All guests will receive a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas and will be able to keep their bell after the trip is over.

All guests are expected to arrive 60 minutes before the departure time. The train departs and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Multiple rides will take place daily from December 10- January 1, with the exception of Christmas Day (closed).  

The pricing tiers go as followed:

Value: $50 Adult, $42 Child (2-11)
Standard: $65 Adult, $57 Child (2-11)
Premium: $78 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)

The only differences between Value, Standard, and Premium departures are the dates and/or times of the rides. Children under two years of age may ride for free with adult guardian.

Sensory-friendly rides will be held on December 17.

An ASL interpretation of the show is on December 20 at 3 p.m. A block of seats has been designated for the best viewing of the show and interpretation. Call 504-930-4408 or fill out the contact form here to book the ASL interpreted show. See the official website for tickets and more details. 

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train. Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor! Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the First Gift of Christmas after Santa boards the train to greet families. Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Event's last day is Wednesday, January 1st

New Orleans biggest annual New Year’s Eve Event – Big Night New Orleans is back for its 12th edition at The Fillmore, located at 6 Canal Street, in New Orleans. Big Night New Orleans & The Fillmore will offer party goers all-night entertainment and impeccable service with full, open bars, and optional VIP reserved seating areas. The entertainment lineup for this years New Years celebration includes live music from multiple artists including the Trina aka “The Baddest Chick”, 2000s rap star “Young Joc”, New Orleans’ own The Brass-A-Holics, plus the incredible Inferno Burlesque show…all hosted by Social Media sensation, Joshua Starkman with more to be announced.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the N.O. R. D Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises funds to support the activities of the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission.

Join us for Blue Midnight, our inaugural New Years Eve party. Come dressed to the nines for a glamorous night of dancing, live music, champagne and good times. Start the evening grooving with the lively sounds of the NOLA Dukes Band. Then, DJ Legatron Prime takes the stage, spinning beats that’ll have you dancing all the way to 2a.

And between all that - Ring in the new year with a dazzling champagne tower toast—our grand highlight of the night.

Your ticket includes a glass of bubbly and delectable bites to keep you fueled for the dance floor.

Let’s raise our glasses and welcome 2025 in true Common House style. See you there?

THIS EVENT IS 21+