Throughout the holiday season (varies by restaurant)
French Market Tree Lighting11/15/2012
French Market, Washington Artillery Park
There will be music and entertainment in Washington Artillery Park from 5 to 7pm, with the tree lighting at 6pm. 4 p.m. Bon Operatit! On the Balcony at the Upper Pontalba on Jackson Square; 5 p.m. New Orleans Navy Band; 5:30 p.m. NOCCA Vocal Music Choir; 5:50 p.m. Guest Speakers & Countdown; 6:00 p.m. TREE IS LIT; 6:01 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Cullen Landry & The Midnight Streetcar
11/20/2012, 5:30pm
Astor Crowne Plaza Hotel
Stroll along Canal Street and watch as they “flip the switch,” turning on more than 1 million twinkling lights. Stop by the hotel’s St Charles Ballroom just off the lobby from 5-7pm and decorate your own holiday cookie while enjoying complimentary hot cocoa or apple cider. Santa will be there to hear your wish list for the holidays. Bring an unwrapped, new toy for Children’s Hospital and receive a free picture with Santa!
Miracle on Fulton Street Lighting11/20/2012, 6-8pm
Fulton Street (at Poydras)
The Miracle on Fulton Street returns as a New Orleans holiday tradition starting with the lighting ceremony featuring Steve Gleason. The spectacle includes dancing lights and faux "snow" that is synchronized to holiday music, roaming caroler chorus, Santa and his reindeer and a 30-foot holiday tree. Snow falls are scheduled on the hour from 5-11pm nightly. Miracle on Fulton Street runs 11/21-1/2.
Bogalusa's Christmas in the Park11/22 - 12/25/2012
Cassidy Park
An evening walking tour of Christmas decorations displayed and lights. Santa visits and tram rides are available. Open Friday & Saturday nights, then every night the week of Christmas. For more information call 985-732-7044.
Celebration in the Oaks
11/23/2012 - 1/1/2013 (closed 12/24 & 12/31)
City Park
$7 per person, children under 3 free. A month-long holiday show featuring millions of twinkling lights throughout the Botanical Garden and Amusement Park. Walk through the Botanical Garden, Storyland, a children's theme park, and Carousel Gardens,an amusement ride area aglow with holiday magic at every turn. Nightly musical entertainment and a full service cafe featuring their famous hot-buttered rum. Don't miss the "Dripping Snow Tree" and the 2-story tall Mr. Bingle!
A Christmas Carol11/23 - 12/16/2012
Southern Rep
Don't miss John “Spud” McConnell starring as SCROOGE in this delightful Dickens Holiday tale featuring a traveling troupe of actors who enact this unforgettable classic with music, dance, clowns and visual effects. This special production rings in the holiday season with plenty of cheer, wit and family fun. Tickets $12.50-$25
A Christmas Story
11/23 - 12/9/2012Slidell's Little Theater
The only thing little Ralphie Parker hopes to find under the tree is a Daisy Brand Red Ryder BB rifle. He doesn’t simply want it—he’s consumed with an aching desire for it. Looming in the way, however, are alleyway bullies, major awards, freezing flagpoles, unsympathetic authorities and a certain horrifying Santa. Based upon the classic motion picture, this play is a holiday treat everyone can enjoy—that is, until someone shoots their eye out. Tickets $15 for adults, $8 for youth.
The Nutcracker11/24 - 11/25/2012
Loyola’s Roussel Hall
New Orleans Ballet Theatre performs Tchaikovsky's timeless favorite. The performance will include over 60 young local dancers. Lead rolls will be performed by the internationally acclaimed dancers of New Orleans Ballet Theatre. Tickets $30 or $20 for students.
The hotel's lobby is transformed into a canopy of white birch branches and thousands of twinkling lights. A giant gingerbread village will be displayed inside Teddy’s Café, located off the hotel’s grand lobby. The lobby also will be lined with Christmas trees and other holiday-themed displays. The festive attraction is a favorite near and far among locals and guests and is free and open to the public.
The Victory Belles Magical Musical Christmas
11/28 - 12/30/2012Stagedoor Canteen at the WWII Museum
An all-new holiday show is their present to you! Join the Victory Belles vocal trio on their journey all the way to the North Pole in search of Santa, as they sing all your favorite songs of the season along the way! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in the Stage Door Canteen, and Chef John Besh is creating savory new holiday menus and sweet desserts for matinees and evening performances. Advance ticket purchase is recommended ($30 show only up to $60 with dinner).
Holiday Movie on the Mississippi11/30/2012
Spanish Plaza
The Downtown Development District and the Riverwalk Marketplace present a special free outdoor showing of a holiday movie. Enjoy hot chocolate, tasty treats and the beautiful Mississippi River with your family, friends, and neighbors in this truly unique setting.
Santa's Secret Workshop11/30 - 12/24/2012
4800 Canal Street
Santa's Workshop isn't at the North Pole this year - it's on Canal Street! It's an exciting adventure through Santa's World where kids of all ages will discover how Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Elves make the magic of Christmas Eve happen ending with custom portraits with Santa. Sure to become a part of your family’s holiday tradition, Santa’s Secret Workshop rekindles your fondest memories. Tickets start at $10.50.
Festival of Trees Premiere Party or Brunch
11/30/2012 - Dessert First Premiere Party12/01/2012 - Family Preview Brunch
Louisiana Children's Museum
Krewe of Jingle Parade
12/1/2012, 1pm
Canal Street
Back for its fifth year, New Orleans’ official holiday parade, the “Krewe of Jingle,” will once again delight locals and visitors alike with authentic parade floats, marching bands, stilt walkers, Christmas characters and many more magical surprises!
Oak Alley's Christmas Bonfire Party12/1/2012
Oak Alley Plantation
St Nicholas Day Fair
12/1/2012
French Market
Families can enjoy free arts and crafts, musical theater, and other interactive seasonal activities in Dutch Alley as part of our St Nicholas Day Fair. Most importantly, St. Nick himself will be there, spreading joy and hope–and of course available for wishes and photographs!
Delta Festival Ballet's The Nutcracker12/1 - 12/2/2012
Northshore Harbor Center in Slidell, 100 Harbor Center Blvd
The LPO opens its season of holiday performances with Delta Festival Ballet as they join forces to recreate Tchaikovsky's Christmas classic. Bring the whole family for an enchanting and magical adventure that continues to thrill audiences and keeps the spirit of the holiday season alive. Tickets $30-$50.
Breakfast with SantaKids will enjoy a variety of cold breakfast foods, face painting, holiday stories and activities. Coffee and pastries will be available for parents. The cost is $5 per person and all proceeds will be donated to a local charity.
The Roosevelt Hotel
Teddy Bear Tea hosts guests and their children for a special tea party featuring children’s menu items, as well as traditional tea, a cash bar and menu for adults, plus complimentary free-flowing champagne. Children also will receive this year’s commemorative Roosevelt Teddy Bear. Entertainment includes storytellers and trumpeters, as well as appearances by Santa, his elves and Mrs. Claus. Commemorative photos with Santa will be available at an additional cost. Tickets $39 for children ages 4-10 and $59 for ages 11-adult (reserved seats additional)
12/2/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Holiday Choir Performances12/3 - 12/20/2012
The Roosevelt Hotel
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Ellis Marsalis
12/3/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Chef's Holiday Cooking Demos12/4 - 12/21/2012
French Market's Shed (between Ursulines & Gov. Nicholls)
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Opera Creole
12/4/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Philip Manuel
12/5/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
LPO's Yuletide Celebration12/6/2012
Ponchartrain Center
A spectacular evening of holiday favorites, food, and fun for the entire family featuring school choirs, local celebrities, and an appearance from Santa! Tickets $20-$95.
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Preservation Hall-Stars
12/6/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Christmas Under the Stars
12/7 - 12/8/2012
Olde Town Slidell
One of the city's most magical celebrations, Christmas Under the Stars returns to Griffith Park this season. Still featured will be live entertainment by local organizations, holiday decorations, the Parade of Trees decorated by local organizations, storytelling and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus the popular miniature village and train display. Free admission.
Holiday Movie on the Mississippi
12/72012
Spanish Plaza
The Downtown Development District and the Riverwalk Marketplace present a special free outdoor showing if a holiday movie. Enjoy hot chocolate, tasty treats and the beautiful Mississippi River with your family, friends, and neighbors in this truly unique setting.
Holiday of Lights
12/7 - 12/8/2012
Tammay Trace
You can view the spectacular light display on the Tammany Trace throughout the month of December, but special events on this weekend include free kiddie rides, food and drink (for purchase), Santa pictures ($15) and live entertainment. Free
The Pecan Cracker
12/7 - 12-23
Rivertown Theaters
The fun New Orleans Christmas musical based on The Nutcracker is bigger and better than ever! More Sets! More Lights! More Costumes! More Roaches! More Alligators! Starring New Orleans favorite, Becky Allen! If you haven't seen The Pecan Cracker, come see the holiday show that is truly a treat for the entire family! Tickets $17-$20
Reindeer Run & Romp
12/8/2012, registration 8am, race 9am
Begins & ends at Aquarium
Calling all kids! The Downtown Development District and Entergy present the annual holiday fun run for kids on Canal Street! Rudolph, Santa and friends will jingle their bells to signal the start of the race. Participants will receive bells for their sneakers, antlers, a race t-shirt and a bag of holiday goodies. After the race, “Romp” around the Aquarium and enjoy healthy activities like yoga for kids & parents, pictures with Santa, music, games, crafts and more.
Jingle Bugs
12/8/2012
Audubon Insectarium on Canal St
Day long family fun with bugs. Meet Santa, sample Bug Nog and Fruit(fly) Cake plus special holiday themed insect programming including Pupa Noel on display, the Gum Drop Hunt and more! Free for Audubon members.
Ponchatoula Christmas Parade
12/8/2012
Downtown Ponchatoula
A new route for 2012 is being planned for "Christmas Characters on Parade" - Santa Claus will arrive on his sleigh along with floats, marching bands, dance groups and more will be included in the annual christams parade.
Noel on Newton & Algiers Bonfire
12/8/2012
Old Algiers / Algiers Point
Activities will begin with a parade of marching bands, school groups, walking characters and more at 10 a.m. from Teche Street to the Federal City complex along Newton Street. School bands, choirs and drill teams will perform at the NOMTOC headquarters in the 1900 block of Newton Street, and children’s activities will be held inside the facilities. Snacks and beverages will be available for sale, and children can take photos with Santa for $5. The day ends with the 25th annual Algier's Holiday Bonfire at Algiers Point.
Happy Ho-Ho-Holidays Family Tea with Santa
12/8/2012
Longue Vue House & Gardens
Glad tidings and great tea! Children and their parents are invited to join Santa in celebrating the holidays at Longue Vue with music, crafts and good cheer! Price includes a photo taken with Santa to capture and share the joyful spirit of the season. Toast the holidays with a complimentary glass of bubbly cheer, served with hot chocolate, cookies, sandwiches, and tea. $35 adults, $18 children
PRCNO Holiday Home Tour
12/8 - 12/9/2012
Starts at 1329 Jackson Ave, Trinity Episcopal Church
Tour six historic homes — plus a bonus house — in the Garden District. Enjoy history and architecture, accompanied by the tunes of talented New Orleans musicians. Visit the tour headquarters for regional cuisine and holiday shopping. Tickets $40 day of tour.
Cajun Holiday Tea with Papa Noel
12/8, 12/15, 12/22/2012
Creole Queen
Come pass a good time aboard the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler with Papa Noel, the Cajun Gingerbread Boy, the Cajun Gator and other jolly Cajun characters during this enchanting family festivity. Tickets $34 children, $49 adults.
Holiday Pet Photos
12/8-12/16/2012
Jefferson Feed, Jefferson & Central
$25 sitting fee includes a CD of ten (10) digital photos of you, your pet/or family. Two scenes to choose from. All proceeds benefit the programs and services of Gulf Coast Doberman Rescue and The Louisiana SPCA.
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Betty Win
12/9/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Foubourg Quartet
12/10/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Pfister Sisters
12/11/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Harmonouche
12/12/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Christmas Organ Spectacular
12/13/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Marine Corps Reserves Band Concert
12/14/2011
Northshore Harbor Center in Slidell
A Night of Magic, Music, and Marines. Free (Toys for Tots donations requested)
Festival of the Bonfires
12/14 - 12/16/2012
Lutcher Park
Enjoy great food, live entertainment, crafts, Santa’s Very Merry Forest and carnival rides throughout the weekend. Each night will be highlighted with a single bonfire lighting! Come out and experience a prelude to the famous Christmas Eve Bonfires: A tradition unique to St. James Parish and all the world. $4 adult admission.
Monte the Lion's Children’s Holiday Party
12/15/2012
Hotel Monteleone
Hotel Monteleone‘s loveable mascot Monte the Lion hosts his annual Children’s Party. Along with Santa, Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman and Santa’s elves. Children will listen to classic Christmas tales read by Mrs. Claus and will enjoy savory treats, games and caroling as a trumpeter will lead special guests in a musical parade. Each child receives a stuffed Monte animal to forever remind them of this event. $55 adults, $40 children.
Holiday of Lights
12/14 - 12/15/2012
Tammay Trace
You can view the spectacular light display on the Tammany Trace throughout the month of December, but special events on this weekend include free kiddie rides, food and drink (for purchase), Santa pictures ($15) and live entertainment. Free
Christmas Under the Stars
12/14 - 12/15/2012
Olde Town Slidell
One of the city's most magical celebrations, Christmas Under the Stars returns to Griffith Park this season. Still featured will be live entertainment by local organizations, holiday decorations, the Parade of Trees decorated by local organizations, storytelling and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, plus our popular miniature village and train display. Free admission.
LPO's Baroque Christmas
12/13/2012 - New Orleans, First Baptist Church
Messiah was composed at Handel's usual quick speed, After an initially modest public reception the oratorio gained in popularity, eventually becoming one of the best-known and most frequently performed choral works in Western music. Come join the LPO as they celebrate this Christmas Classic! Tickets $20-$95
Running of the Santas
12/15/2012
Warehouse District
Participants dressed in Santa Claus costumes fill the streets and local establishments – with Mrs. Clauses and the occasional Elf. “Running of the Santas” in a pub-crawl style event. Activities start at Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar on Tchoupitoulas at noon and eventually makes it's way to Generations Hall for a post-party and concert. A portion of the proceeds benefits That Others May Live Foundation. Registration $15-$25.
The Amazing True Story of Santa Claus
12/15 and 12/22
Rivertown Theaters
Santa himself will appear in a one-man musical presentation. He will tell of his childhood as Nicholas in the town of Patara and his transformation into the person we call Santa Claus. He will explain how the traditions such as “stockings by the chimney” came to be, and how he manages to bring gifts to children all over the world! Most importantly, he will remind us that the traditions of Christmas are an outgrowth of Christian love. Tickets $10
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Annual Christmas Concert
12/16/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 5:30pm. Free
Holiday Home Tour
12/16/2012
French Quarter
Residents open their homes for a self-guided walking tour. The tour includes interesting architectural styles and home furnishings, as well as a variety of collections of Christmas decorations.Tickets are $20 each (children under 12 free), and will be available for purchase prior to the tour at Creole Delicacies, 533 St. Ann Street.
Caroling in Jackson Square
12/16/2012
Jackson Square
Join in a truly moving 64-year-old tradition as Jackson Square brims with thousands of candlelit faces and song-lit spirits as high as the spires of the St. Louis Cathedral. Candles and song sheets provided. Gates open at 6:30 pm and Caroling begins promptly at 7pm. Free and open to the public.
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Rachel Van Voorhees
12/17/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Don Vappie
12/18/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Judith Owen & Harry Shearer's Holiday Sing-A-Long
12/18 - 12/19/2012
Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St
Actor/comedian Harry Shearer and his wife, Judith Owen, in an evening of holiday mirth. The evening unites Christmas-lovers and Scrooges alike, in traditional and non-traditional holiday music, part performance, part sing-along. Both reverent and irreverent. Advance tickets $30
Cathedral Christmas Concert - Lars Edegran's Jazz Band
12/19/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Cathedral Christmas Concert - St Peter Claver Gospel Choir
12/20/2012
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Enjoy the sounds of the season at St. Louis Cathedral. Concerts feature a variety of New Orleans artists performing beloved holiday classics and gospel favorites in one of the country’s most beautiful and historic churches. Begins at 6pm and lasts about an hour. Free
Live Reindeer at Family Day at the Fairgrounds
12/22/2012
Fairgrounds Race Course
Holiday fun include the reindeer and creative activities like cookie decorating, ornament making and face painting. And since his reindeer will be there, Santa won't be far behind - he'll be available for pictures ($5). There will also be free hot cocoa, hot dogs, soft drinks and more. The event is 12n-4pm, children under 12 are free, admission $5.
Christmas Eve at St. Louis Cathedral
12/24/2011
Jackson Square at Chartres Street.
Celebrate as we have for generations by capping off your Christmas Eve with the pageantry of the traditional Midnight Mass. Doors open at 11:15pm. Christmas carols, with the St. Louis Cathedral Concert Choir, begin at 11:30pm. Vigil Mass also at 5pm on the 24th. On Christmas Day, Masses will be at 9am and 11am. For information, please call (504) 525-9585. Free.
Bonfire Express
12/24/2012
Toulouse St. and the River
The traditon of bonfires that light the way for Papa Noel is a sight unique to our part of the country. Take a bus tour of the mammoth wooden structures such as cabins, tepees, & riverboats along the Mississippi River levee. Some walking is necessary to see the "feux de joie" (fires of joy)! The cost is $39.00 adults and $29.00 children.
A NOLA New Year's Eve
12/31/2012
Jackson Square in the French Quarter
Live music and the gumbo pot drop to launch the midnight barrage of fireworks over the mighty Mississippi River. Tune into Magic 101.9 for a musical simulcast soundtrack to make the fireworks even more exciting!
