See all New Orleans Christmas happenings this year!
New Orleans celebrates Christmas 2025 around the French Quarter and riverfront, where twinkling lights and brass bands add soulful holiday cheer. Festive events, holiday entertainment and winter gatherings feature markets, concerts and lively neighborhood traditions rich with local flavor.
Find the best New Orleans Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around New Orleans
- Celebration in the Oaks
- New Year's Eve in New Orleans
- Teddy Bear Tea at The Roosevelt
- NOLA ChristmasFest
- Windsor Court Holiday Tea
- New Year's Eve Cruise Aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen
- NOLA ChristmasFest 2025
- Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
- Caroling in Jackson Square
- Creole Christmas at Preservation Hall
See even MORE Christmas events below!
New Orleans Christmas Events
New Orleans Christmas Light Displays
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New Orleans City Park transforms into a magical winter wonderland for Celebration in the Oaks, a beloved holiday tradition. This spectacular light festival features over a million twinkling lights spread across a two-mile driving tour and an immersive walking tour. Visitors can enjoy unlimited amusement park rides, explore the beautiful Botanical Garden, and witness dazzling displays that have enchanted guests since the 1980s. It's a vital fundraiser supporting the park's year-round care and beautification.
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Get ready for NOLA ChristmasFest, a spectacular holiday celebration coming to New Orleans from December 20-29, 2025. This year's theme, "Best in Snow," promises an enchanting winter wonderland experience. While more details are coming soon, attendees can anticipate a magical atmosphere filled with festive decorations and holiday cheer.
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New Orleans' premier indoor holiday attraction, NOLA ChristmasFest, transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland. Discover dazzling displays, including a new giant gingerbread house, an expanded ice slide, and a sparkling ice-skating rink. Thrilling carnival rides and festive live entertainment add to the magic. Don't miss the exclusive, limited-capacity ice bumper cars for an extra dose of fun.
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Step into a New Orleans holiday wonderland with the 50th Annual Holiday Home Tour. This cherished tradition invites you to explore the breathtaking interiors and grounds of magnificent homes in the historic Garden District, all decked out in festive holiday splendor. Enjoy enchanting live music, discover unique treasures at the Holiday Boutique, and immerse yourself in the seasonal magic of this iconic event.
New Orleans Christmas Food, Drink and Parties
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Experience the magic of the holiday season with a festive afternoon tea at The Windsor Court in New Orleans. For over 25 years, they have celebrated the British tradition of holiday afternoon tea in Le Salon, offering a refined and joyous experience. Their Grand Lobby is transformed into a winter wonderland with numerous decorated trees and a magnificent centerpiece, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. Beyond tea, their culinary team prepares special menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve, alongside the unique Reveillon menus, a beloved local tradition.
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Ring in the New Year aboard the historic Paddlewheeler Creole Queen for an unforgettable celebration on the Mississippi River. Guests will enjoy a lavish buffet, a premium open bar with call-brand drinks, and a champagne toast at midnight. Live music from a jazz band and a DJ will keep the party going across three decks, ensuring a festive atmosphere as you welcome the new year.
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Embark on a magical Cajun holiday journey aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen. This enchanting family festivity features Papa Noel, Mrs. Noel, and beloved Cajun characters. Indulge in a delightful holiday tea with tempting treats, engaging storytelling, and fun children's activities like face painting and magic tricks. A unique highlight includes the chance to hold a live alligator, offering a true taste of Louisiana. Adults can also enjoy optional bottomless mimosas.
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Get ready for an unforgettable holiday celebration at the New Orleans SantaCon 2025! Don your most festive Santa suit and join a merry throng of revelers as they hop between the city's best bars. Enjoy waived cover fees, special drink prices, and a free after-party. It's the ultimate way to spread holiday cheer with friends old and new.
New Orleans Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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Experience the magic of the Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet, a beloved holiday tradition. This spectacular performance features an international cast, enchanting puppetry, and exquisite costumes and sets crafted by European artisans. Tchaikovsky's iconic score sets the stage for an unforgettable Christmas celebration that will create cherished memories for the entire family.
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Step into the heart of New Orleans for a magical Creole Christmas at Preservation Hall. This annual tradition features the renowned Preservation All Stars performing beloved holiday tunes with their signature intimate, acoustic jazz style. Experience the vibrant musical heritage of the French Quarter in a truly unforgettable setting.
New Orleans Christmas Markets and Shopping
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Experience the charm of a traditional German Christkindlmarkt at Deutsches Haus in New Orleans. This beloved annual event brings the magic of European Christmas markets to the Gulf South, featuring over 60 vendors offering unique handmade gifts, jewelry, crafts, and imported German goods. Savor authentic German treats like sausages, pretzels, and warm gluhwein, all while enjoying festive music and carols. Children can delight in visits from St. Nicholas and the Christkind, making it a perfect holiday outing for the whole family.
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Discover a vibrant holiday shopping experience at the New Orleans East Kaleidoscope Holiday Pop-up on Read Blvd. This festive event showcases unique gifts, handcrafted jewelry, and delicious treats from local and regional vendors. It's the perfect opportunity to find special presents while supporting small businesses and embracing the spirit of the season.
New Orleans Other Christmas Activities
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Ring in the New Year with an unforgettable celebration in the heart of New Orleans. This immersive journey explores the unique cultural tapestry of Louisiana, from historic Creole plantations along the Mississippi to the mystical bayous. Discover the vibrant jazz scene, explore the oldest African-American neighborhood, and experience the festive spirit of a truly memorable New Year's Eve.
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Step into a magical North Pole at The Roosevelt's beloved Teddy Bear Tea. This cherished holiday tradition offers enchanting singing, dancing, and storytelling, complete with special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Indulge in decadent pastries and hot chocolate, creating lasting memories for generations.
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Experience the magic of the holiday season at Caroling in Jackson Square, a cherished New Orleans tradition. Thousands gather for a festive hour of carols led by local figures, creating a heartwarming community sing-along. Complimentary songbooks and candles are provided, making it easy for everyone to join in the joyous celebration.
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Get ready for the 4th Annual Manning Family Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade! This spectacular event kicks off the holiday season with a dazzling procession through Downtown New Orleans. Prepare to be amazed by 30 holiday-themed floats, soaring helium balloons, and the vibrant energy of numerous marching bands and dancing groups. It's a family-centered celebration not to be missed!
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Experience the Algiers Holiday Bonfire & Concert, a vibrant community celebration along the Mississippi River. This unique event honors Louisiana's bonfire tradition with live music, local artisan shopping, and delicious food from area vendors. The highlight is a stunning 30-foot sculptural bonfire, ignited after sunset, offering a breathtaking spectacle against the New Orleans skyline.
Christmas Events Near New Orleans
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