The holiday season in New Orleans is always bright and joyful. Christmas festivals and beautiful holiday light shows fill people with a festive spirit and help make those short winter days brighter. New Orleans Christmas lights are usually turned on right before or after Thanksgiving in late November.
Miracle on Fulton Street (November–December 2023)
Although there is no real snow in New Orleans on Christmas, lights on Fulton Street can create the illusion. The dazzling holiday “snowfall" occurs every hour. Miracle on Fulton Street draws crowds with its magic light displays.
LUNA Fête (December 7–10, 2023)
The LUNA Fête interactive light display is one of the most amazing New Orleans Christmas shows. It is accompanied by carols and holiday performances at Lafayette Square.
Christmas in Lafreniere Park (December 1–30, 2023)
The Christmas exhibit at Lafreniere Park features a 60-ft (18.3-m) sea serpent, a magical castle with a princess, a teddy bear factory, a snowman island, and a gingerbread man. Children can also enjoy carousel rides for $1 per child.
Celebration in the Oaks (November 23, 2023–December 30, 2023)
Celebration in the Oaks covers the 10-ha (25-acre) City Park with the beautiful Botanical Garden, the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, and Storyland. The Park looks magical, with thousands of twinkling holiday lights on the trees, Santa Claus train, and holiday amusement rides. The park is usually closed on December 24th and 31st.
Christmas in Downtown Development District (late November–mid-December 2023)
The Downtown Development District boasts illumination on Canal Street stretching for two miles and a large Christmas tree at the Astor Crowne Plaza. Come to see the Canal Street Lighting Ceremony at Astor Crowne Plaza 739 Canal St. The festivities start at 5:30 pm with over 1 million twinkling lights illuminating Canal Street and other corners of Downtown NOLA.
Waldorf Wonderland Lobby in Roosevelt Hotel (Lightning ceremony: November 28, 2023)
Another bright display can be seen at the Roosevelt Hotel, which becomes one of the most photographed buildings in the city during the holiday season.
Kenner Christmas Village (December 2023)
A good place to go with the whole family is the Kenner Christmas Village in the Kenner City Park, decorated with holiday lights over a picturesque pond. Santa Claus, carolers, and entertainment will keep the kids busy.
