“The sun is shining, the green is green.”
Irving Berlin could’ve been talking about Christmas in the Crescent City when he wrote the introductory lyrics to one of the world’s most favorite holiday songs. But he was actually talking about the other L.A. — Los Angeles.
While chances of a white Christmas in south Louisiana are slim — it’s snowed on Christmas only twice in the past 150 years — there’s no lack of opportunities to celebrate the season the way we celebrate all things: with food, fun, fellowship and festivities.
Even before Thanksgiving leftovers have been put away, New Orleans will be cranking up the Christmas cheer. By the time Advent officially starts Nov. 30, the Black and Gold faithful will have started to hang the green and red. And the bon temps will rouler until it’s time to celebrate Carnival on Jan. 6.
In addition to the attractions that bring millions to the city each year, there are seasonal events and traditions for every age, taste or budget. From Réveillon dinners at world-renowned restaurants to dazzling light displays, here are more than 100 ways to make your days merry and bright.
TRADITIONS
Young visitors pop fog bubbles during City Park’s annual Celebration in the Oaks in New Orleans, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. (Photo by Sophia Germer, The Times-Picayune)
CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS: City Park’s largest annual fundraiser featuring more than a million lights runs Nov. 28-Jan. 1, 2026. The 2-mile driving tour, starting at 4 Friederichs Ave. in New Orleans, or the walking tour, starting at 7 Victory Ave., includes unlimited Amusement Park rides as well as access to the Botanical Garden. Tickets start at $7. celebrationintheoaks.com
People march from St. Louis Cathedral to Jackson Square during the Caroling in Jackson Square holiday singalong in New Orleans, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024. (Staff photo by Scott Threlkeld, The Times-Picayune)
CAROLING IN JACKSON SQUARE: Patio Planters of the Vieux Carre will present their annual holiday sing-along Dec. 21, 7-8 p.m. Gates open at 6:30. Complimentary song books and candles will be provided. Mark Romig will serve as master of ceremonies, with local musicians Harry Mayronne, Chris Wecklein and Amy Alvarez leading carols. patioplanters.net
Judith Owen breaks the crowd into 12 parts and encourages them to sing and act out “The Twelve Days of Christmas” song during her annual ‘Christmas Without Tears’ charitable variety show at the Orpheum Theater in New Orleans, Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022. The show benefited the Innocence Project New Orleans. (Photo by Sophia Germer, NOLA.com, The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate)
CHRISTMAS WITHOUT TEARS: Harry Shearer and Judith Owen celebrate their 20th anniversary holiday event benefiting Innocence & Justice Louisiana (formerly Innocence Project New Orleans) on Dec. 16, 8 p.m., at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. The evening includes music, special guests and the release of “Judith Owen Swings Christmas.” Tickets start at $47.45 via Ticketmaster. orpheumnola.com
KENNER’S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS VILLAGE: The free holiday experience, located at Heritage Park in Rivertown, 2015 Fourth St. in Kenner, will run Nov. 30-Dec. 31, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Activities include lights, snow, music, food, arts and crafts, weekend vendors, live entertainment and a special appearance from Santa Claus. kenner.la.us
TEDDY BEAR TEA: The Roosevelt New Orleans, 130 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans, celebrates the season with the tradition Nov. 30-Dec. 27, with various seatings each day. Festivities include singing, dancing, storytelling, pastries and hot chocolate, champagne and appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus. During the tea, each child will be given a new teddy bear to commemorate the tradition. Tickets start at $114.58. therooseveltneworleans.com
Lights twinkle in the lobby after the Annual Lobby Lighting Ceremony at the Roosevelt in New Orleans, Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024. (Photo by Sophia Germer, The Times-Picayune)
LOBBY LIGHTING CEREMONY: The Roosevelt New Orleans celebrates the start of the holidays with the 2025 ceremony turning on 112,000 lights in the block-long lobby at 130 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. The event will be held Dec. 2, 5 p.m. with complimentary champagne. therooseveltneworleans.com
CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS: The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will perform Handel’s “Messiah” and other classical Christmas music on Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m., at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. The LPO will be led by conductor Matthew Kraemer, with chorus conductor Meg Frazier. Tickets start at $13. lpomusic.com
HOLIDAYS AT AUDUBON: The Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Zoo will offer special holiday activities Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 2026. The aquarium, 1 Canal St. in New Orleans, will feature Santa photos, a snowflake lobby, Scuba Santa and story time. Activities at the zoo, 6500 Magazine St., will include Papa Noel, animal enrichments, kid crafts and holiday beverages. Admission starts at $25. audubonnatureinstitute.org/holidays
TEDDY BEAR PROGRAM: Arnaud’s Restaurant will hold its 12th annual program in partnership with the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation (NOPJF). Until Dec. 31, Arnaud’s and collection sites throughout the city will accept donations of new teddy bears in designated bins. At the end of the collection period, the teddy bears will be delivered to the NOPD for officers to carry in their vehicles and distribute to children who have experienced trauma, tragedy or victimization. Collection bins will be placed at New Orleans locations, including Arnaud’s Restaurant, 813 Bienville St.; Energy Centre, 1100 Poydras St.; New Orleans & Company, 2020 St. Charles Ave.; NOPJF Headquarters, 320 Metairie-Hammond Hwy, Suite 500; and NOPD Headquarters, 1615 Poydras St. arnaudsrestaurant.com
CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK: The 39th annual light exhibit kicks off Dec. 1 with a lighting ceremony at 5:30. The lights will remain open Dec. 1-30 in Lafreniere Park’s South Mall Parking Lot, located closest to the West Napoleon Avenue entrance, at 3000 Downs Blvd. in Metairie. Event hours are 5:30-9 p.m. weeknights and 5:30-10 p.m. on weekends. In addition to more than 40 new displays with more than 10 million LED lights, there will be Santa’s Express Mail Center, where children can view Santa’s elves building toys. There will be special appearances from Santa, Rudolph, Frosty and the Grinch on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Driving and walking tours are available. Admission charge is $20 per vehicle in advance and $25 at the gate. LafrenierePark.org
HOLIDAY GINGERBREAD WORKSHOP: Red Fish Grill, 115 Bourbon St. in New Orleans, will host their annual gingerbread house building workshop on Dec. 6, 7, 13 and 20, with seatings at 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Attendees can decorate pre-assembled gingerbread houses with handfuls of holiday candy, royal icing and celebratory sprinkles. General admission to the workshop is $20. Materials for the gingerbread house, including decorations and a kid’s apron, are $70. Additional food and beverage items can be purchased. redfishgrill.com
The Amazing Acro-Cats at The Marigny Theatre. Saturday, February 28, 2015. (Josh Brasted Photo)
MEOWY CATMAS 2025: The Amazing Acro-Cats will present their annual holiday special Dec. 4-21 at the AllWays Lounge & Cabaret, 2240 St. Claude Ave. in New Orleans. In addition to the cats performing tricks, there will be an appearance by The Rock Cats, the only cat band in the world, playing seasonal holiday selections. Performances start at 7 p.m. for evening shows, with weekend matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $48.74. A portion of ticket sales will go to local rescue partner Big Easy Animal Rescue (B.E.A.R.). theallwayslounge.net
HOLIDAYS IN HARMONY: The Victory Belles bring the sounds of the season to life in a musical review for the whole family Dec. 10-23, at BB’s Stage Door Canteen, National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans. A buffet-style lunch is included with the show in the matinee luncheon ticket. Tickets for the show only start at $22, with luncheon and show tickets starting at $65. nationalww2museum.org
Visitors ride the Yoyo during the opening night of NOLA ChristmasFest at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Friday, Dec. 20, 2024. (Photo by Sophia Germer, The Times-Picayune)
NOLA CHRISTMASFEST: The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center will host the 12th holiday wonderland Dec. 20-29, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and 4:30-9 p.m. (with other hours Dec. 24 and Dec. 25). Activities include live music, visits with Santa and attractions including the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and a new giant Gingerbread House. The Big Freezy, the city’s only ice-skating rink with real ice, returns this year alongside ice bumper cars. Skating with Santa is Dec. 21, 9:30-11 a.m. Special tickets are required. Tickets are $25 for weekdays and $30 for Saturdays and Sundays. Each ticket is valid for a single admission on a specific day and 4.5-hour session selected. Guests under 18 need a parent or guardian for admission. The convention center is located at 900 Convention Center Blvd. in New Orleans. nolachristmasfest.com
PARADES
The 3rd Annual Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade in New Orleans, Saturday Dec. 7, 2024.
MANNING FAMILY CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY PARADE: The fourth annual family-centered holiday parade will take place Dec. 6, 11 a.m. The parade will feature local and national television coverage, 30 holiday-themed floats, helium balloons, more than a dozen dancing groups and marching bands. nolaholidayparade.com
Robin Roberts of the Krewe of Krampus Christmas parading group added to the weirdness of the ‘Swampus Returns’ Halloween stationary parade that brought COVID-19-safe horror to Gentilly on Oct. 30, 2021
KRAMPUS NOLAUF: Krewe of Krampus is returning to a walking parade after two years as a stationary parade. The largest Krampus parade in America will be held Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m., in the Bywater. The route starts at Parleaux Beer Lab, 634 Lesseps St. in New Orleans, and continues to Brats Y’all, 617-B Piety. The krewe will also accept new, unwrapped toys for the Marines’ Toys for Tots drive. Participants can place their donations on the toy float or hand it to a Marine as they pass by. kreweofkrampus.com
TWINKLE ON THE TECHEFUNCTE: The lighted boat parade and holiday decorating contest will take place Dec. 13, 5-8 p.m., on the Tchefuncte riverfront. The family-friendly event includes Market Munchkins all-kids market, photo ops, carolers and eats and treat specials at participating restaurants. A parade along the Tchefuncte riverfront begins at 6 p.m., traveling downriver from the Maritime Museum to Marina Del Ray, then circling back through the bridge and flotilla on the north side until Santa arrives by boat to lead the procession to the wall. Guests can meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus after the parade. visitthenorthshore.com
COMMUNITY GATHERINGS
HOLIDAY ORNAMENT AND RECIPE CARD SWAP: The Tchoup Swap Club’s December program is an ornament and recipe card swap on Dec. 4, 6-8 p.m., at Miel Brewery Taproom, 405 Sixth St. in New Orleans. Items that can be swapped include handmade or store-bought holiday ornaments in good condition and several copies of recipe cards or family recipes. It’s free to join. Just bring items to swap. No selling is allowed. This is a swap-only event. Food will be available from Hatch and Harvest food truck. mielbrewery.com
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS IN THE FRENCH QUARTER: The Historic BK House & Gardens will host a pre-Christmas party for little ones ages 2-11 on Dec. 6, 10-11:30 a.m., at 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Activities include gingerbread house making, story time with Mrs. Noel and a visit from Santa. Children and their chaperones will be treated to snacks and sweets as well as beverages for all ages. Tickets start at $10 for caregivers, $35 for children 2-12 and siblings under 2 free. bkhouse.org
CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL AT THE POINTE: Holy Name of Mary Church, 5000 Eliza St. in New Orleans, will host their annual Christmas festival on Dec. 6, noon-8 p.m. Activities include live music, food, treats, petting zoo, crafts, inflatables and family entertainment. holynameofmarynola.org
CHRISTMAS AT JACKSON BARRACKS: The annual family-friendly Christmas celebration will be held Dec. 6-7, 5-9:30 p.m., at Jackson Barracks, 6541 St. Claude Ave. in New Orleans. Activities include holiday performances by local high school bands and choirs, a hot cocoa and cookie station, a Christmas village with children’s activities and a Christmas marketplace. Guests can stroll down Beauregard Street under the lighted oaks with exterior views of Jackson Barracks’ antebellum homes. Tickets start at $10. All proceeds benefit the Louisiana National Guard Foundation. jbchristmas.com
SANTA’S CHAMPAGNE STROLL: The Magazine Street Merchants Association will host an evening of after-hours shopping for the holidays on Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m. Participating businesses from Henry Clay to Jackson Avenue will offer sparkling wine, bites, sales and holiday cheer. Santa and Mrs. Claus will hand out goodies all along the street. This is a free event, open to the public, with no ticket required. All ages are welcome, but participants must be 21 or over to enjoy wine. magazinestreet.com
CAJUN CHRISTMAS WITH T MARIE & BAYOU JUJU: Urban South Brewery, 1645 Tchoupitoulas St. in New Orleans, will celebrate the holiday season Cajun-style with food and drinks, a small local southern market, live music and Cajun two-step lessons from T Marie & Bayou Juju on Dec. 13, 1 p.m. Admission is free. urbansouth.com
SANTA ON THE BAYOU: This year’s event will take place on Dec. 13, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Los Isleños Museum, 1357 Bayou Road in St Bernard. Families can line up near the venue on Highway 46 and drive through the lights and decorated historic Isleño cottages. At the end of the line, each child age 13 and under will receive a gift. Santa will be giving away hamburgers and hot dogs, while supplies last. santaonthebayou.org
LIGHTS ON THE LAKE: The Pontchartrain Conservancy will host its 11th annual holiday celebration Dec. 13, 5-8 p.m., 8001 Lakeshore Drive in New Orleans. This event promises the best view of the annual West End Boat Parade, a display of decorated boats lighting up the lake. Choirs and dance performances will take place at the New Canal Lighthouse. There will be hands-on STEM activities and sustainable crafts for the kids and food for sale from area food trucks. Admission is $10 and free for children five and under. Tickets will be sold at the door and online. No pets or chairs are allowed. All proceeds from Lights at the Lake will benefit Pontchartrain Conservancy. scienceforourcoast.org
CONCERTS
HOLIDAY CONCERTS: French Quarter Festivals, Inc. and St. Louis Cathedral will host two holiday concerts at the cathedral, 615 Pere Antoine Alley in New Orleans. The Dec. 3 concert, 6-7 p.m., will feature Leroy Jones & New Orleans’ Finest. The Dec. 21 concert, 5:30-6:30 p.m., will be the St. Louis Cathedral Christmas Concert. Both concerts are free. holiday.neworleans.com
MARINE CORPS RESERVE BAND HOLIDAY CONCERT: Friends of the Harbor Center will host the holiday concert on Dec. 3, 7 p.m., at the Grand Hall at The Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd. in Slidell. Doors open at 6 p.m. for visits and photos with Santa. Admission is one new, unwrapped toy or a monetary donation for Toys for Tots. harborcenter.org
MOUNT CARMEL ACADEMY CHRISTMAS CONCERT: Mount Carmel’s Christmas concert will be held Dec. 4, 6 p.m., in the MCA Assembly Center, 7027 Milne Blvd. in New Orleans. The evening will feature performances by Chorale, Encore, Celebration, Beginning Choir, the String Orchestra and the 8th Grade Fine Arts Survey classes. Before the concert, members of the String Orchestra and Chorale will host several fundraising activities. A Christmas photo spot will also be available. Funds raised will help support their travel to Florida for special performances this spring. Tickets are $5 at the door. MCA students receive free admission with school ID. mcacubs.com
CHRISTMAS AT LOYOLA: Loyola choirs and a variety of instrumental ensembles will perform Christmas music on Dec. 7, 3 p.m., at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 6367 St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans. This event is free and open to the public. loyno.edu
HOLIDAY SHOW: Jazz vocalist Jane Monheit will perform Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m., at the New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market, 1436 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $57.25 via Ticketmaster. jazzandbluesmarket.com
“JOYEAUX NOEL”: The Jefferson Chorale, a JPA affiliate directed by Louise LaBruyére, will present two free holiday concerts featuring “Messe de Minuit pour Noel,” a mass for four voices, by Marc-Antoine Charpentier. The Dec. 11 concert will be held at Good Shepherd Church, 5122 W. Esplanade in New Orleans, starting at 7:30 p.m. The Dec. 14 concert will be held at St. Agnes Church, 3310 Jefferson Highway, starting at 2 p.m. facebook.com/TheJeffersonChorale/
“THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL”: The Louisiana Philharmonic, conducted by Evan Roider, will perform live-to-picture the Paul Williams score for the 1992 Christmas musical on Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m., at the Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $13. lpomusic.com
THE GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS EVE — THE BEST OF TSO & MORE: Trans-Siberian Orchestra will perform its holiday concert on Dec 17, 7 p.m., at the Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Drive in New Orleans. Tickets start at $54.70 via Ticketmaster. smoothiekingcenter.com
LESLIE ODOM JR. THE CHRISTMAS TOUR: The Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor-singer from the Broadway cast of “Hamilton” will perform holiday songs Dec. 17, 8 p.m., at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. Tickets start at $62.40 via Ticketmaster. orpheumnola.com
The Big Easy Boys will perform in concert.
BIG EASY BOYS HOLIDAY SHOW: The New Orleans-based quartet presents a holiday concert with their unique take on seasonal classics Dec. 18, 6-7 p.m., at the Historic BK House & Gardens, 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans. Light refreshments will be served. Tickets start at $30 for members and $35 for non-members. bkhouse.org
HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR: The Louisiana Philharmonic, conducted by Peter Rubhardt, will perform holiday favorites like “March of the Toys” from “Babes in Toyland” and Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” on Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m., at the Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. Special guest appearances include vocalist Alexis Marceaux on “Merry Christmas, Darling” and trumpeter Kermit Ruffins on “Let It Snow.” Tickets start at $13. lpomusic.com
DANNY AND PATRICK O’FLAHERTY’S CELTIC CHRISTMAS: Patrick and Danny O’Flaherty will perform their first concert of Celtic Christmas music together since 1995 on Dec. 21, 2 p.m., at Deutsches Haus, 1700 Moss St. in New Orleans. Tickets are $20 for Deutsches Haus members and $25 for non-members. dannyoflaherty.com
Chip Davis’ ‘Mannheim Steamroller Christmas’ comes to the Saenger Theater Dec. 27.
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS: The classical-rock fusion group known for four decades of holiday music will perform Dec. 28, 8 p.m., at the Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal Blvd. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $113. mannheimsteamroller.com
HOLIDAYS IN GILDED AGE STYLE: The Historic New Orleans Collection will offer a short program exploring the history of the restored Aeolian residential player pipe organ, along with selections including “Sleigh Ride,” “March of the Toys” and “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” Wednesdays-Sundays through Jan. 4, 2026, 11-11:30 a.m., at the HNOC’s Seignouret-Brulatour Building in the Barbara S. Beckman Music Room, 520 Royal St. in New Orleans. Admission is included with museum admission. No registration is required. hnoc.org
BONFIRES
Eric Arvidson takes a picture as the bonfire burns during the annual Algiers Holiday Bonfire & Concert in New Orleans, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024. (Photo by Sophia Germer, The Times-Picayune)
ALGIERS HOLIDAY BONFIRE & CONCERT: The Algiers Economic Development Foundation hosts its annual holiday celebration on Dec. 6, 4:30-8 p.m., at the Algiers Batture, 200 Morgan St. in New Orleans. Festivities include live entertainment and local food and crafts vendors at the only holiday bonfire in New Orleans. This event is free and open to the public. Reservations are accepted via Eventbrite. algierseconomic.com
LOS ISLENOS CHRISTMAS AND BONFIRE: Los Isleños Fiesta will host an evening of holiday events on Dec. 6, 3:30-7:30 p.m., at Saint Bernard Parish Government Museums, 1357 Bayou Road in St. Bernard. Local schools will perform Christmas songs, followed by a bonfire. Food will be for sale, and there will be free cookies, hot chocolate and apple cider. losislenos.org
HOLIDAY TEAS
ROOSEVELT TEDDY BEAR TEA: The Roosevelt New Orleans, 130 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans, celebrates the season with the tradition Nov. 30-Dec. 27, with various seatings each day. Festivities include singing, dancing, storytelling, pastries and hot chocolate, champagne and appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus. During the tea, each child will be given a new teddy bear to commemorate the tradition. Tickets start at $114.58. therooseveltneworleans.com
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS TEA: Historic BK House & Gardens, 1113 Chartres St. in New Orleans, will host a holiday event Dec. 21, 10-11:30 a.m. Tickets are $35 for children 2-12, with siblings under 2 free. Caregivers are $20. bkhouse.org
HOLIDAY AFTERNOON TEA: The Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St. in New Orleans, presents the traditional British pastime of afternoon tea in Le Salon, with seatings available Nov. 29-Dec. 31. Tickets start at $50. Reservations are required. thewindsorcourt.com
PAPA NOEL TEA: The Ritz-Carlton will host a holiday tea in the Davenport Lounge Dec. 6-30, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m., at 921 Canal St. in New Orleans. Papa Noel makes an appearance, and children will enjoy cookie decorating and holiday surprises. Reservations are required. Tickets start at $99. event.marriott.com
STAGE DOOR TEDDY BEAR TEA: The National WWII Museum will host a special occasion each Saturday and Sunday during Dec. 6-21 at BB’s Stage Door Canteen, 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans. The festivities include food and sweet treats, lively music from the Victory Belles and a special visit with Santa. Young guests will leave with a teddy bear. Admission starts at $77, with children 2 and under $7. nationalww2museum.org
CULINARY EXPERIENCES
PANCAKES WITH SANTA: Urban South Brewery, 1645 Tchoupitoulas St. in New Orleans, will host breakfast and photos for all ages on Dec. 6, with two seatings, 10-11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tickets include breakfast, a juice or milk for the kids and a complimentary grown-up drink for the adults. Each child will have be provided a holiday craft at their table and the opportunity to receive a digital copy of their photo with Santa. Tickets are $20 for kids and $30 for adults. urbansouth.com
CAJUN HOLIDAY TEA WITH PAPA NOEL: The Paddlewheeler Creole Queen with Papa Noel, Mrs. Noel, Gaston the Gator and other Cajun characters will present a classic holiday tea with treats, storytelling, face painting, magic tricks and children’s activities while cruising the Mississippi River on Dec. 13. Boarding is at 10 a.m., at Spanish Plaza, 1 Poydras St. in New Orleans. Tickets start at $19. Advanced prepaid reservations are required. For adults, $25 bottomless mimosas are available for purchase on board. bigeasy.com
BREAKFAST WITH BABY JESUS: St. Mary’s Dominican High School’s 25th holiday event will take place Dec. 13, 10 a.m.-noon, on campus in Alumnae Hall, 7701 Walmsley Ave. in New Orleans. Featured activities will include a Living Nativity presented by the Dominican Drama Club, craft stations for children of all ages, visits with Santa for photos, storytelling with Mrs. Claus, holiday songs with the Dominican Choir and birthday cake. Nonperishable food item donations are requested. Donations will be distributed to a food bank. Registration for Breakfast with Baby Jesus is $35 per family (includes up to four attendees). Each additional attendee is $5. Registration is available online through Dec. 10. stmarysdominican.org
NUTCRACKER BRUNCH: Deutsches Haus will hold a traditional German breakfast with a visit with St. Nicholas and Christkind on Dec. 14, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at 1700 Moss St. in New Orleans. Children 12 and under receive a nutcracker keepsake. Tickets are $35 per person. deutscheshaus.org
JAZZ BRUNCH WITH SANTA: The Court of Two Sisters will host a holiday meal Dec. 19, 22 and 23, with a brunch buffet, live holiday jazz, a visit with Santa and a gift for every child. Various seatings are available each day. This is a special prepaid indoor event for parties of 2 to 14. Tickets start at $36. Prepaid registration is required. courtoftwosisters.com
CHRISTMAS BRUNCH: The Roosevelt New Orleans will host a brunch featuring seasonal holiday dishes, bottomless mimosas and live music on Dec. 25, 10:30 a.m., at 130 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans. Tickets start at $139 for adults (ages 13 and older) and $49 for children 3-12, with children two and under free. therooseveltneworleans.com
FILMS & MOVIES
MOVIES UNDER THE STARS ON SPANISH PLAZA: Riverwalk Outlets will host a movie screening night under the riverfront sky on Dec. 13, 5:30 p.m., at 500 Port of New Orleans Place in New Orleans. Guests can bring a blanket and watch a holiday favorite. riverwalkneworleans.com
“POLAR EXPRESS”: Family Christmas Movie Night on Dec. 15 will feature the 2004 animated film with Tom Hanks voicing several characters, along with movie-themed crafts, at Westwego Library, 635 Fourth St. in Westwego. The event is 6-8 p.m. in the meeting room. Children under the age of 12 require adult supervision. jplibrary.net
“THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS”: Teen Flicks at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon Ave. in Metairie, for Dec. 16 will feature Tim Burton’s animated holiday film. This event, scheduled for 5-6:30 p.m. is for teens 12-18. jplibrary.net
“THE GRINCH”: Family Christmas Movie Night on Dec. 22 is the 2018 update of the Dr. Seuss classic, along with movie-themed crafts, at Westwego Library, 635 Fourth St. in Westwego. The event is 6-8 p.m. in the meeting room. Children under the age of 12 require adult supervision. jplibrary.net
FUNDRAISERS & GALAS
SIPPING WITH SANTA: Chateau Country Club, Mayor Michael Glaser, Police Chief Keith Conley, Visit Kenner and Friends of Rivertown will host the annual cocktail party fundraiser on Dec. 2, 6-9 p.m., at Chateau Golf and Country Club, 3600 Chateau Blvd. in Kenner. The event includes holiday martinis, cocktails, wines, hors d’oeuvres, photos with Santa and Santa’s Secret Shopping Village. Tickets start at $65. The event benefits Kenner Food Bank. kenner.la.us
SANTA IN THE SAND AT COCONUT BEACH: The fourth annual 4×4 coed beach volleyball tournament will be held Dec. 6, starting at 10 a.m., at Coconut Beach, 100 Coconut Beach Court in Kenner. The event includes pool play, elimination rounds, prizes, live music, auctions, and food and drinks. Proceeds benefit TKN’s 656 Foundation. Team entry fee is $200. volleyballlife.com
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: The NOCCA Foundation’s annual fundraiser is set for Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m., at House of Blues New Orleans, 225 Decatur St. in New Orleans. The music lineup features Irma Thomas, Kermit Ruffins, The Soul Rebels, Big Freedia and emcee Gralen Banks. Proceeds support the NOCCA Foundation’s Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists, which honors the memory of NOCCA alum Daniel Price with scholarships for NOCCA students. Tickets start at $55. HomeForTheHolidaysNOLA.com
JINGLE BELL RUN: The annual run benefiting the Arthritis Foundation will be held Dec. 13, starting at 9 a.m., at Audubon Park, 6500 Magazine St. in New Orleans. Packet pickup begins at 9 a.m., with the program starting at 10 a.m., the 5K starting at 10:30 a.m. and the awards ceremony at 11 a.m. Registration through Dec. 11 is $50. events.arthritis.org/jbrneworleans
CHANUKAH EVENTS
CHANUKAH WONDERLAND: The Goldring Woldenberg Jewish Community Campus, 3747 W. Esplanade Ave. in Metairie, will host a Chanukah event Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Activities include face painting, a dreidel bounce house, Chanukah theater, Jewish dance dance revolution, Chanukah gift shop, candle making and others. Tickets are $10 per child. jewishlouisiana.com
HANUKKAH FAMILY DAY: Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience will hold a free Family Day on Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at 818 Howard Ave. in New Orleans. From 10 a.m.-noon, programming is aimed at kids four years old and under. From 1-3 p.m., programming is aimed at kids four and older. There will be crafts, music and storytelling scheduled throughout the day, with Hanukkah-themed snacks and a range of kid-friendly programming. This event is open to the public. msje.org
Latkes from the 2017 Latkes with a Twist
Pizza Delicious owners Mike Friedman and Greg Augarten’s latkes are topped with homemade apple chutney and crème fraiche. It’s also great with sour cream. (Photo by Chris Granger, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune)
LATKES WITH A TWIST: Jewish Children’s Regional Service hosts the 11th annual Hanukkah event celebrating the Festival of Lights on Dec. 7, featuring Chef Susan Spicer and Rosedale. A patron pre-party starts at 6 p.m., with general admission at 6:30 p.m. at Press Street Station at NOCCA, 5 Homer Plessy Way in New Orleans. The evening includes a latke bar with all the toppings, live music and complimentary open bar with holiday cocktails. Tickets start at $54. jcrs.org
LIGHT THE NIGHT: Shir Chadash Conservative Congregation and Jewish Community Day School will host a Chanukah kick-off on Dec. 13, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at 3737 W. Esplanade Ave. in Metairie. The event includes Havdalah, pizza, crafts, cookie decorating and Chanukah songs and stories. RSVP is required. shirchadash.org
CHANUKAH PARTY: New Orleans Jewish Community Center will host a luncheon with traditional Chanukah foods, including latkes and sufganiyot (doughnuts) on Dec. 18, 12 noon-2 p.m., at the Uptown location, 5342 St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans. The event includes dreidel games and live music, sponsored by the Jewish Endowment Foundation. Tickets start at $5. RSVPs by Dec. 15 are required. nojcc.org
OUTDOOR MENORAH LIGHTING: As part of Chanukah on the Avenue, Temple Sinai will have its Menorah lighting Dec. 19, 6 p.m., at 6227 St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans. templesinainola.com
HOME TOURS
50TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY HOME TOUR: The Preservation Resource Center will host its annual Garden District home tour Dec. 13-14, starting at Louise S. McGehee School, 2343 Prytania St. in New Orleans. This self-guided walking tour allows participants to explore interiors, gardens and classic New Orleans’ architecture at their own pace, with live music performances, local shopping and seasonal cheer. Tickets start at $35. prcno.org
The French Quarter home of Tammie Dixon and Tom Reagan photographed on Tuesday, December 9, 2014, in New Orleans for the upcoming Patio Planters Holiday Home Tour.
FRENCH QUARTER HOLIDAY HOME TOUR: The Patio Planters holiday tour will be held Dec. 21, 12 noon-4 p.m., in the French Quarter. The tour starts at Jackson Square, 700 Decatur St. in New Orleans. The self-guided walking tour features private residences with varying architectural styles and home furnishings, decorated for the season. Tickets to the tour, which supports the annual Caroling in Jackson Square, are $35 each if preordered online and $40 the day of the event. Children 12 and under are free. patioplanters.net
2025 CREOLE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY HOME TOUR: The Friends of the Cabildo will host their annual home tour Dec. 27 and 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Historic houses include Beauregard-Keyes House, Gallier House, Hermann-Grima House, 1850 House, Historic New Orleans Collection and Spring Fiesta. All houses will have their courtyards open to enjoy on the tour as well. Tickets will be daily limited. Tickets start at $44.52 via Eventbrite. friendsofthecabildo.org
MARKETS & SALES
BLACK FRIDAY MARKET: Urban South Brewery, 1645 Tchoupitoulas St. in New Orleans, will host a holiday market on Nov. 28, 11 a.m. The event will feature local makers, artists and crafters with one-of-a-kind, handcrafted goods. urbansouth.com/
DEUTSCHES HAUS CHRISTKINDLMARKT: Deutsches Haus will hold its seventh annual Christmas market Dec. 5-7 at 1700 Moss St. in New Orleans. Market hours are 3-8 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. The market will offer food, drink, seasonal items and handmade gifts and crafts in open-air stalls. Shopping will be accompanied by traditional Christmas music and singing. There is no entrance fee for shoppers. deutscheshaus.org
NEW ORLEANS EAST KALEIDOSCOPE HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOPPING: The three-day shopping experience on Read Boulevard will be held Dec. 5-7, 3-8 p.m., outdoors at the Old Save Mart parking lot on the corner of Read and Lake Forest boulevards, 9999 Lake Forest Blvd. in New Orleans. Vendors will include holiday decorations, handcrafted jewelry and treats. Details are available on Eventbrite.
MERRY MARKET: Longue Vue House and Gardens will host its annual holiday market on Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at 7 Bamboo Road in New Orleans. Local vendors will be on hand. This event coincides with Longue Vue’s monthly Free Family Sunday. Gardens admission is free for Louisiana residents and $15 for out-of-state visitors. longuevue.com
HOLIDAY MARKET & MELODIES: Pitot House, the 1799 West Indies-style house and gardens that was home to James Pitot, the first U.S. mayor of New Orleans, will hold a market on Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at 1440 Moss St. in New Orleans. pitothouse.org
MISTLETOE MARKET: The Rusty Nail and Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar will hold a market on the patio on Dec. 13, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., at 1114 Constance St. in New Orleans. Vendors will include small and local businesses selling art, vintage and handmade clothing, jewelry, accessories, home decor, unique holiday gifts and more. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. sidecarnola.com
VISITS WITH SANTA
SAILING WITH SANTA: The Steamboat Natchez will host a Sailing with Santa cruise Nov. 29, boarding at 2 p.m. from 400 Toulouse St. in New Orleans. All participants, regardless of age, must bring a new toy to be donated to Toys for Tots New Orleans. The cruise features live holiday entertainment, photo ops with Santa Claus, indoor and outdoor seating. An optional lunch buffet is available, and cocktails and beer and wine are available for purchase. Tickets start at $5 for sightseeing and $20 for lunch. Reservations are required. steamboatnatchez.com
SANTA PHOTOS WITH MR. BINGLE: Lakeside Shopping Center will host opportunities to take photos with New Orleans’s holiday icon in center court at the mall, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd. in Metairie, on Dec. 3, 10 and 17, 4-7 p.m. Photo packages start at $29.95. Time slots can be reserved. Walk-ups are also available. lakesideshopping.com
SANTA PICS: The 610 Stompers — ordinary men, extraordinary moves — will sponsor an afternoon with Santa at Deutsches Haus, 1700 Moss St. in New Orleans on Dec. 13, 12 noon-3 p.m. Each participant will get a digital, downloadable photo with Santa and a photo with Santa and the Stompers for $25. Pictures will be first come, first served basis. Light snacks will be available for the kids. 610stompers.com
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.nola.com ’
