Christmas is a time of celebration and joy for people worldwide, and Louisiana is no different.
With its rich culture and unique traditions, Louisiana provides a diverse array of Christmas events to capture the magic of the season. From the sparkling lights of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival to the vibrant flames of the Bonfires on the Levee, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the Christmas season in Louisiana. Whether you seek a traditional Christmas celebration or something more distinctive, you’re sure to find an event that suits your taste.
Natchitoches Christmas Festival (Natchitoches)
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is a six-week celebration of the holiday season, featuring over 300,000 lights that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. In this charming town, you can enjoy carriage rides through the historic district, live music, and visits with Santa, among many other delightful activities.
NOLA Christmas Fest (New Orleans)
New Orleans excels at celebrating, and the Christmas holidays are no exception. At NOLA Christmas Fest, you can enjoy all the traditional holiday festivities, including a gingerbread village, ice skating, and sweet treats from Mrs. Claus. Bring the kids for hot cocoa, candy canes, and carnival rides, and immerse yourself in the Yuletide spirit.
Louisiana Lights (Baton Rouge)
The Windrush Gardens at the Burden Museum & Gardens transform into a magical holiday oasis during the Louisiana Lights event. This multi-night celebration, where history meets illumination, runs from late November to late December. Guests have ample time to explore the stunning light displays and experience the enchantment of Windrush Gardens.
Festival of the Bonfires (Lutcher)
A Christmas Eve tradition dating back to the 1800s, bonfires are lit along the Mississippi River in St. James Parish. While the reasons behind the tradition vary—from guiding ships on the river to marking the path to Midnight Mass—the Festival of the Bonfires now serves to light the way for Papa Noel’s gift deliveries. These aren’t ordinary bonfires; the structures range from fleur-de-lis to towering alligator heads.
Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights (Central/North Louisiana)
Gather the family and set out on the Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights for festive fun. You can watch a Christmas parade, complete your holiday shopping, or enjoy live music in a park. With seven stops along the trail, there’s something to bring Christmas magic to everyone.\
Celebration in the Oaks (New Orleans)
Located in New Orleans’ iconic City Park, Celebration in the Oaks features 25 acres of dazzling lights and breathtaking, festive displays. Drive beneath illuminated oak trees on a 2.25-mile route to see more than a million lights. You can also book a walking tour, which includes access to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden.
The Nutcracker — A Tale From the Bayou (Baton Rouge)
For many, the Christmas spirit is sparked by the opening notes of The Nutcracker’s Overture. If you are one of these people, you’ll surely enjoy the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre’s annual performance of The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou, which seamlessly blends the classic Nutcracker ballet with the rich culture of South Louisiana.
Christmas Eve with a Reveillon Dinner (New Orleans)
Enjoy a Christmas Eve dinner inspired by the old Catholic Reveillon tradition, originally a feast for parishioners returning from midnight mass. This modern take on the tradition invites everyone to celebrate at numerous restaurants around New Orleans throughout December.
Christmas in Roseland (Shreveport)
During the holiday season, America’s Rose Garden turns into a magical winter wonderland. Experience Christmas in Roseland, where you can stroll through gardens illuminated with Christmas lights and festive displays, and enjoy nightly entertainment. Be sure to visit local vendors’ booths for a hot chocolate or to find the perfect gift.
Noel Acadien au Village (Lafayette)
LARC’s Acadian Village offers a festive Cajun holiday experience for the whole family in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Bring the kids to Noel Acadien au Village for carnival rides, live music, delicious food, and a special visit with Papa Noel.
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