NEW ORLEANS — New Orleans comes alive with holiday magic at this time of year, offering a variety of festive activities for all ages. Visitors can marvel at dazzling light displays at Celebration in the Oaks in City Park or enjoy ice skating and carnival rides at NOLA Christmas Fest.
Here are some Holiday events happening around the New Orleans region.
If you have a public Holiday event not listed here, please email us at webteam@wwltv.com.
Orleans Parish
Canal Street Holiday Lighting Ceremony
The 2024 holiday season will officially begin in Downtown New Orleans on Tuesday, Nov. 26, with the annual lighting of Canal Street and the surrounding area.
The event, held at the main entrance to Canal Place, 333 Canal St., will run from 4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. and feature live performances by the Voices of Peter Claver, hot cocoa from PJ’s Coffee, treats from Brasa South American Steakhouse, a glitter bar, giveaways, and a special appearance by Santa Claus.
The event marks the start of the Holiday festivities in Downtown New Orleans, illuminating one of the city’s most iconic streets and bringing the community together to celebrate the season.
NOLA Christmas Fest
NOLA Christmas Fest is returning to the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center for its 11th year, offering 11 days of holiday cheer from Dec. 20 to Dec. 30, 2024. New this year is the Merry Mini Golf attraction, a festive twist on the classic game, perfect for family fun.
Santa Claus himself tested the course, expressing his excitement for the event’s newest addition. Other fresh attractions include the Yuletide YoYo ride and a fourth ice slide, adding to the indoor festival's dynamic lineup. Tickets are available now at nolachristmasfest.com.
The indoor winter wonderland spans 300,000 square feet and features returning favorites like the Kringle Carousel, Big Blizzard Blast, life-sized Gingerbread House, and New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink. Visitors can also enjoy live music, concessions, and visits with Santa Claus.
This year’s “Best in Snow” theme ensures something for everyone, with organizers promising a magical experience filled with joy and memories. Michael J. Sawaya, Convention Center President and CEO, highlighted the festival’s growing tradition, emphasizing its role in spreading holiday cheer to locals and visitors.
The Roosevelt New Orleans
Lights in the Lobby
The Roosevelt New Orleans invites the community to kick off the holiday season with its 2024 Lobby Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, December 3, at 5 p.m.
Guests, visitors, and locals can enjoy complimentary champagne as they toast to the festive season amid dazzling holiday décors. On Christmas Day, the hotel will host a special Christmas brunch featuring an array of delectable entrees, bottomless mimosas, and live music, offering a memorable dining experience for families.
Teddy Bear Tea
From December 1 to December 27, the beloved Teddy Bear Tea returns, enchanting children and families with a magical North Pole-themed celebration. This cherished tradition includes singing, dancing, storytelling, and special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, creating a whimsical holiday experience for guests of all ages.
Caroling in Jackson Square
Patio Planters of the Vieux Carre will host the annual Caroling in Jackson Square on Sunday, December 22, from 7-8 p.m.
This beloved holiday tradition invites both locals and visitors to join in a free community sing-along, featuring carols led by local dignitaries and clergy.
Gates open at 6:30 p.m., with volunteers distributing complimentary songbooks and candles to participants.
The non-denominational celebration brings thousands together for a festive hour of holiday cheer in the heart of the French Quarter.
Celebration in the Oaks
Celebration in the Oaks is a cherished New Orleans holiday tradition and one of the most stunning holiday lights festivals in the country. Drawing over 135,000 visitors from around the globe, the event transforms City Park into a magical winter wonderland. Established in the late 1980s, this family-friendly celebration runs for 37 days, delighting guests of all ages with its dazzling displays and festive atmosphere.
Krampus NOLAuf parade
The Krewe of Krampus walking parade returns to the streets of New Orleans on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
Starting at 7:30 p.m. in the Bywater neighborhood, this unique Krampuslauf event promises an unforgettable evening filled with excitement and creativity, bringing a taste of Alpine holiday tradition to the Crescent City.
51st Annual Bayou Classic Events
Annual Bayou Classic Thanksgiving day Parade
Thanksgiving day - Thursday, November 28, 3:00 p.m.
The parade starts at the Caesars Superdome on Poydras Street, parades down Poydras Street to make a left on S. Peters Street, down S. Peters Street to make a left on Canal Street, continues on Canal Street to make a left on St. Charles Avenue, marches down St. Charles Avenue back to Poydras Street to make a right and ends at Poydras and Loyola streets.
Bayou Classic Invitational High School Battle of the Bands
Friday, November 29
Doors 5:00 pm; Event 6:00 pm
Caesars Superdome
Southern University's “Human Jukebox” Marching Band will be on the South End Zone side of the Caesars Superdome and the Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band will be on the North End Zone side.
Jefferson Parish
Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village 2024 Opening Ceremony and Tree Lighting
The City of Kenner's Magical Christmas Village at Heritage Park in Rivertown (2015 Fourth Street) is a holiday tradition for the whole family, offering lights, snow, music, food, arts, crafts, and special appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Open every day in December from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the event features local bands, dance groups, and cheer teams each weekend. Admission is free, with vendors and entertainment available every Friday and Saturday.
The festivities kick off with an exciting opening night on Sunday, December 1, featuring the Elvis My Way concert by Brandon Bennett at 6:00 p.m., following the festive tree lighting at 5:30 p.m.
Sipping with Santa
Sipping with Santa, the annual fundraiser benefiting the Kenner Food Bank will take place on Tuesday, December 3, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Chateau Country Club in Kenner.
This festive event features holiday-themed cocktails, wine, hors d'oeuvres, Santa's secret shopping village, and photo opportunities with Santa. Proceeds from the evening will support the Kenner Food Bank, which serves over 1,000 individuals and more than 400 families each month, with demand continuing to rise.
It's a fun way to give back to the community while celebrating the holiday season.
18th Annual iBarnes Toy Distribution
The 18th Annual iBarnes Toy Distribution will be held on Wednesday, December 18, at the Pontchartrain Center.
Organized by the iBarnes Foundation the event offers children a free gift, cookies, and punch to celebrate the holiday season.
Attendees can enjoy photo opportunities with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, festive Christmas music played by a DJ, and much more.
Registration is required for each child to receive a toy.
38th annual Christmas in the Park
Jefferson Parish kicks off the 38th annual Christmas in the Park on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. with a lighting ceremony at Lafreniere Park in Metairie.
Christmas in the Park will be held nightly through Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. Lafreniere Park will be closed on Christmas Day, Wednesday, Dec. 25, and will reopen on Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024.
The event features over 10 million LED lights, elaborate decorations, and festive displays, including new attractions celebrating Jefferson Parish’s 200th anniversary.
Visitors can enjoy Santa’s Express Mail Center where children can watch Santa’s elves at work. Santa, Rudolph, Frosty, and the Grinch will make appearances on weekends.
The event runs through December 30, with driving and walking tours available. Admission is $10 per vehicle in advance and $15 at the gate. Christmas in the Park is closed on Christmas Day, December 25.
For more information, visit www.lafrenierepark.org.
St. John the Baptist Parish
Festival of Bonfires
Celebrate the holiday season at St. James Parish's unique and festive event, held at Lutcher Recreational Park (2545 Louisiana Avenue, Lutcher, LA 70071) throughout the weekend.
Enjoy delicious food, live entertainment, handmade crafts, and family-friendly attractions like Santa’s Very Merry Forest and carnival rides.
On Friday night at 7 p.m., the lighting of a bonfire on the levee will take place, with a free bus shuttle available.
The celebration continues on Saturday night at 8 p.m. with the lighting of another bonfire on the festival grounds, followed by the annual fireworks show, making for a memorable weekend of holiday cheer.
Click here for more information on the Festival of Bonfires.
A Christmas Stroll Down Main Street and Beyond
The 3rd Annual Christmas Stroll will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering a festive walk through the heart of Main Street.
Following the stroll, guests are invited to visit the Welcome Center from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for an Open House celebration. The event will feature a Merry Mini Market, live holiday music, refreshments, door prizes, and a special visit from Santa, making it a perfect way to enjoy the holiday season with family and friends.
Senior Citizen Holiday Luncheon
St. John Parish Seniors are invited to a Senior Citizen Holiday Luncheon on Thursday, December 5, at 10:30 a.m. at REGALA Gym, 200 REGALA Park Rd., Reserve.
If you plan to attend, RSVP by November 26, to the Parish office at 985-652-9569.
Plaquemines Parish
Christmas in the Park
Jesuit Bend Park will transform into a winter wonderland on Thursday, Dec. 21, as the Jesuit Bend Park Foundation hosts its annual Christmas in the Park celebration.
The free event, located at 12888 Highway 23, will run from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. and feature a variety of festive activities for all ages.
Highlights include a Christmas market open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., a petting zoo, inflatables, and kids' crafts. Santa Claus will make a grand arrival by sleigh, delighting children and families alike.
As the evening progresses, visitors can enjoy raffle prizes, a boozy booth for adults, and free Polar Express train rides from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. The festivities will culminate with a Christmas movie screening and complimentary hot chocolate starting at 5 p.m. DJs spinning holiday music, photo booths, and other surprises promise to make this event a memorable way to celebrate the season. Families and friends are encouraged to attend and embrace the holiday spirit.
Plaquemines Christmas Festival
Plaquemines Parish will celebrate the start of the holiday season with its annual Fun Run and Christmas Parade on Thursday, Nov. 30, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The festivities begin with a spirited Fun Run, inviting participants to lace up their sneakers and embrace the holiday cheer. Following the run, a Christmas parade featuring festive floats and Santa Claus himself will make its way through the streets, concluding at the government complex.
After the parade, attendees can enjoy a vibrant Holiday Market at the government complex, featuring craft vendors and food trucks offering seasonal delights. The event is free to the public, and organizers are still welcoming applications from food truck operators and craft vendors interested in participating. Route details for the parade will be announced closer to the event, promising an evening of community celebration and holiday spirit.
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