How to celebrate Christmastime in New Orleans

03.12.2024 - 18:21 / lonelyplanet.com

Dec 3, 2024 • 4 min read

The year-round party vibe of New Orleans takes on an extra sparkle during the holiday season. Christmas lights and decorations adorn homes and businesses, and the streets are filled with holiday music – with that distinctly Big Easy flair, of course.

From decked-out hotel lobbies and cathedral concerts to bonfires on the levee and Réveillon dinners introduced by French colonists that stretch into the wee hours, here are the best things to do during the holiday season in New Orleans.

Many of New Orleans’ higher-end hotels are famous for their over-the-top holiday decorations and seasonal events. In the Central Business District, the Windsor Court Hotel has towering Christmas tree, several smaller trees, wreaths, garlands and a classic toy train. Kids can write their wishes on a complimentary ornament and hang it on the wish tree.

Over at the Roosevelt New Orleans, the lobby is decorated with thousands of lights, a multitudes of trees and wreaths and features a North Pole theme features Santa and Mrs. Claus. Holiday menus include a Teddy Bear 

In the French Quarter, the Ritz-Carlton’s artfully decorated lobby is a favorite of Instagrammers. The hotel’s jam-packed December calendar includes gingerbread building, Papa Noël teas and holiday dinners. Other hotels known for their displays include the Hotel Monteleone, the Windsor Court and the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans. While you don’t have to be a guest to check out these decorations, many hotels do offer special Papa Noël rates during the holidays if you decide to stay.

It’s no surprise that the birthplace of jazz takes a musical approach to its holiday celebrations. From concerts to caroling, the December calendar is full of merry musical events throughout New Orleans. On the Sunday before Christmas (that's December 22 for 2024), Caroling in Jackson Square is a free event that invites everyone to sing Christmas carols by the glow of candlelight – show up early to get a good spot.

Rather just listen? The St. Louis Cathedral hosts a free concert series featuring choirs, gospel singers, jazz musicians and more. Check New Orleans’ local events calendars for plenty more holiday concerts.

Veer off the well-trodden tourist track and head to City Park for a beloved New Orleans Christmas family tradition. Celebration in the Oaks is one of the most spectacular holiday light displays in the country, featuring more than a million lights twinkling all around City Park. Though it’s usually a walking tour, visitors to this year’s event can choose between a 2.25-mile driving tour through the grounds or an all-access pass to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, which features 18 rides and a festive outdoor beer garden.

New Orleans’ Réveillon (REV-ee-on)