2023 Sparkling Geaux Guide
Ring in the spirited season with over 45 Santa-approved adventures the whole family can enjoy. After all, nothing screams holiday traditions in New Orleans quite like parades, music, City Park lights, and Teddy Bear teas.
Baby It’s Cold Outside
2nd Annual Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade
December 2. 11 a.m. • Rolls from Elysian Fields Avenue & N. Peters Street, New Orleans
The parade will start from The French Market with an extended route through Downtown, and will end with a post-parade holiday experience and concert in Lafayette Square!
Algiers Holiday Bonfire & Concert
December 2. 4:30-8 p.m. • 200 Morgan St., New Orleans
As Algiers’ biggest annual holiday celebration and New Orleans’ only official holiday bonfire, the Algiers Bonfire is the neighborhood’s largest event and pays tribute to Louisiana traditions. Listen to musical performances, eat food from local vendors, and shop at the holiday craft market.
December 1-30. Closed December 24. 5-11 p.m. • City Park, 1 Palm Dr., New Orleans
This premier holiday fundraiser garners over 135,000 visitors, celebrating what has become THE New Orleans family tradition. This incredible lights festival has enchanted Park visitors since the 1980s and is vital to the Park’s maintenance, care, and beautification year-round.
Christmas in Lafreniere Park Run/Walk
December 9. 4 p.m. • Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd., Metairie
This run/walk will give locals the chance to participate in one of the most festive holiday events in the country. The 2-mile course takes participants through Lafreniere and ends near the walking light display tour!
December 9. Parade rolls at noon.
The parade route will start at the intersection of Hord Street and Jefferson Highway proceeding in the westbound lanes of Jefferson Highway. Come prepared to catch holiday-themed throws and spread Christmas cheer!
December 2. 7:30 p.m. • Rolls from Royal Street & Mazant Street, New Orleans
Come see Krampus for yourself and the spectacular show of dark winter known as the NOLAuf. Krewe of Krampus is returning to a walking parade on the streets of New Orleans after two years of pivoting to a stationary parade.
December 9. 5-8 p.m. • New Canal Lighthouse, 8001 Lakeshore Dr., New Orleans
This family-friendly holiday event provides the best view of the annual West End Boat Parade, which starts 5:30 p.m. Also featuring fun, hands-on activities for the kids, you can enjoy local food trucks, “Santa’s Holiday Cocoa,” and choirs and dancing performances.
December 2. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Dutch Alley, 916 N. Peters St., New Orleans
Join the holiday festivities at the annual Saint Nick Celebration in the French Quarter. Enjoy live music, kid’s activities, and the Saint Nick Second Line!
December 16. 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. • Louisiana Steam Train Association Train Yard, 1501 Jefferson Hwy, Jefferson
Ride with your family and friends in an open-air gondola or caboose pulled by one of LASTA’s historic diesel locomotives. Be on the lookout for when Santa makes his appearance!
Brrrrrrr-unches!
December 17. 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Bourbon Orleans Hotel, 717 Orleans St., New Orleans
Get into the holiday spirit and bring the whole family to meet the man in red himself! Indulge in a scrumptious brunch spread while Santa listens to your Christmas wishes.
Christmas Brunch at The Roosevelt
December 25. 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. • The Roosevelt New Orleans, 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans
The Roosevelt, New Orleans invites you and your family to take part in our Christmas brunch with delectable entrees, bottomless mimosas, and live music.
December 9. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • December 17. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • The Cannery, 3803 Toulouse St., New Orleans
Visit for a holiday brunch with Santa and his friends. Tickets include brunch by Toulouse Gourmet Catering, arts and crafts activities, as well as other fun surprises!
December 19-22. 10 a.m. to noon & 1-3 p.m. • The Court of Two Sisters, 613 Royal St., New Orleans
Get Jazzy with Santa as you enjoy a brunch buffet and a live holiday jazz trio. Every child will also receive a gift of their choice (naughty or nice!)
December 10. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • The Cannery, 3803 Toulouse St., New Orleans
Visit The Cannery for a Holiday Princess Brunch with your favorite Snow Sisters, Elsa and Anna! Tickets include brunch by Toulouse Gourmet Catering, arts and crafts activities, as well as other fun surprises.
Cups of Christmas Cheer
BK House’s Annual Kids Holiday Tea Party
December 9. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. • Beauregard-Keyes House, 1113 Chartres St., New Orleans
Kids and guardians are welcome to attend the party filled with snacks and fun activities ranging from storytelling, holiday crafts, and a visit from a surprise guest.
Teddy Bear Tea at The Roosevelt
November 26-December 27 • The Roosevelt New Orleans, 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans
Indulge in decadent pastries and hot chocolate or sip on champagne as you pass on this tradition from one generation to the next! This year, the time-honored celebration will once more feature singing, dancing, story-telling, and appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
The Remington’s 2023 Cajun Night Before Christmas Tea
December 3. 2-5 p.m. • Destrehan Plantation, 13034 River Rd., Destrehan
The Remington Mobile Tea Room will host a Cajun Night Before Christmas Teddy Bear Tea at the Destrehan Plantation’s Mule Barn. Join the fun along with Boudreaux & Thibodeaux as they welcome Papa Noel, Mrs. Clause, and Papa Noel’s elves for a day of Christmas Fun on the Bayou!
Holly Jolly Jingles
A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage
December 3. Showtimes at 1 & 7 p.m. • Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans
The critically acclaimed holiday celebration that the whole family can enjoy brings Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the Peanuts gang together live on stage as they uncover the true meaning of Christmas.
December 7-21. Showtimes at 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. • Marquette Theater, 6363 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans
This thrilling adaptation uses only five actors to bring some of Dickens’ most beloved characters to life. Witness Scrooge’s transformation from a stingy miser to a man who generously celebrates the spirit of the season all year long.
A Christmas Story, the Musical
December 1-17. Showtimes at 2 & 7:30 p.m. • Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts, 25 Minor St., Kenner
Set in the 1940s, the show follows young Ralphie Parker on his quest to receive a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Filled with memorable characters, catchy songs, and delightful choreography, this enchanting musical captures the essence of childhood wonder and the magic of the holiday season.
December 2. 3 p.m. • Lafon Performing Arts Center, 275 Judge Edward Dufresne Pkwy., Luling
When Max gets blown off course and ends up at the North Pole…his adventure begins! Dancing toy soldiers, caroling worms, and performing poinsettias light up the stage in Lightwire Theater’s A Very Electric Christmas.
December 22-23. 7 p.m. • The Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., New Orleans
Buddy was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father. This holiday season relive this heartwarming holiday classic on a giant screen as every note of John Debney’s wonderful score is played live to picture.
December 13. 11:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. • BB’s Stage Canteen at The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., New Orleans
Celebrate the holidays, Louisiana-style! The Victory Belles will take you on a musical tour from the raucous Cajun bayous to the splendors of caroling in historic Jackson Square.
December 2. 7:30 p.m. • Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans
The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will play all your holiday favorites live on the Orpheum Theater stage. Make this performance a part of your Christmas traditions— it is the perfect concert experience for your entire family!
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
December 27. 7:30 p.m. • Saenger Theater, 1111 Canal St., New Orleans
This show encompasses all of your favorite classic holiday songs with dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting and is a perfect night out to celebrate the season with the entire family!
Musical Storytime: The Snowy Day
December 9. 10:30 a.m. • Popp Bandstand at New Orleans City Park, 54 Dreyfous Dr., New Orleans
Join the fun for an interactive story and musical adventure featuring LPO musicians. The musician will play a demo on their instrument, explain a little bit about their instrument and their background, and then read the story with musical accompaniment.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
December 30. 4 & 8 p.m. • Saenger Theater, 1111 Canal St., New Orleans
Gather your loved ones for the warm glow and nostalgia of America’s favorite Christmas celebration. Experience the extraordinary international cast and Ukrainian Principal Artists performing at the peak of classical European Ballet.
December 15-23. Showtimes at 2 & 7 p.m. • The Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans
The beloved two-act ballet has returned! Performed by a professional company and the charming addition of over 120 local children, New Orleans Ballet Theater will present eight performances at the Orpheum Theater this holiday season.
December 10. 2 -3:30 p.m. • Louis J. Roussel Performance Hall, 6301 Saint Charles Ave., New Orleans
Get ready to be captivated by this enchanting localized production that will transport you to a world of wonder and fantasy with this localized production includes a Mardi Gras Strut, pom-pom-shaking Who Dats donned in black and gold, and more!
Merry Markets
December 1, 4-8 p.m. December 2, 1-8 p.m. December 3, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Deutsches Haus, 1700 Moss St., New Orleans
A Christkindlmarkt is a street market associated with Christmas during the Advent season. These outdoor markets originated in Germany in the late Middle Ages. This market will offer food, drinks, seasonal items, and handmade gifts and crafts offered for sale from open-air stalls.
December 7. 6-8 p.m. • Academy of the Sacred Heart, 4521 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans
The Junior League of New Orleans invites attendees to this free, public event to socialize, enjoy the beautiful sounds of caroling, and get a jump start on their holiday shopping.
December 16. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. • The Shop at The Collective, 520 Royal St., New Orleans
Featuring local brands and makers from across the Greater New Orleans Region, visit this market in the heart of the French Quarter and shop for unique gifts, surrounded by the festively decorated historic courtyard.
Holiday Market with the Grinch
December 9. Noon to 5 p.m. • Port Orleans Brewing Company, 4124 Tchoupitoulas St., New Orleans
Shop locally at this holiday market featuring an extra special grumpy visitor and a bounce house for the kiddos. The Grinch will be at the brewery to steal presents and take photos!
December 7 & 14. 5-7 p.m. • The Rink, 2727 Prytania St., New Orleans
View this collection of unique shops and select offices in the heart of the Garden District for convenient holiday shopping with a splash of fun.
December 2. 6-9 p.m. • Magazine Street, New Orleans
Kick off the holidays on Magazine Street for an evening of after-hours shopping for the holidays. Sip, stroll, and find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Participating businesses will offer wine, bites, sales, and holiday cheer.
Little Flea Nola Holiday Market
December 3. Noon to 5 p.m. • Hotel Saint Vincent, 1507 Magazine St., New Orleans
Little Flea Nola returns to Hotel Saint Vincent for a series of markets featuring some of the city’s best vendors and artists.
December 2, 1-4 p.m. • Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Rd., New Orleans
Longue Vue’s annual outdoor holiday marketplace includes shopping with local vendors, festive crafts and music, and photos with Santa.
December 2. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. • St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, 215 Betz Place, Metairie
Shop from over 100 vendors, enjoy the food trucks, make snowflakes or take pictures with Santa at this free event.
Santa Sightings
While Santa Claus may pop into other events, here are some places you’re sure to find the jolly man in red.
December 10. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.• December 21. 5-9 p.m. • Don’s Seafood, 4801 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie
It’s a Cajun Christmas come true! When you come to Don’s for dinner, take the kiddos see St. Nick and take a free picture to celebrate the occasion.
Call (504) 722-3835 or email gentillysanta@gmail.com to book your session.
December 1-24• Weekdays: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. • Sundays: 12-6 p.m. • 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie
Visit the Center Court for photos with Santa Claus or to take a ride on the North Pole Express.
December 1-24. Reserve your time slot online. • 197 Westbank Expy., Suite 33, Gretna
What’s that sound? Santa’s in town! Don’t miss out on taking pictures with St. Nick!
December 2. Noon to 4 p.m. • Port Orleans Brewing Company, 4124 Tchoupitoulas St., New Orleans
Celebrate the holidays while helping animals in need! Bring your fur babies to take pictures with Santa Claus, shop local vendors, raise a glass to help Animal Rescue New Orleans’ homeless dogs and cats, and maybe meet your new best friend.
December 2-3. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. • 2727 Prytania St., New Orleans
Winter Wonderlands
December 10. 1 p.m. • Destrehan Plantation, 13034 River Rd., Destrehan
Enjoy an afternoon on the plantation grounds at the Mule Barn for holiday crafts, reindeer games, Elf Bingo, a candy cane hunt, and meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
Kenner’s Heritage Park Christmas Village
December 2-30. 5:30-8:30 p.m. • Kenner’s Heritage Park, 2015 Fourth St., Kenner
Visitors can wander through and view the festival displays, shop local food and craft vendors, find a unique gift, take a photo with Santa, or catch a song or dance performance by community churches and school groups.
New Orleans Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd., New Orleans • December 21-30. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
From the awe-inspiring holiday displays including a Gingerbread Village, Giant Wreath and Tree to a newly designed ice-skating rink, exciting Carnival rides, and delightful holiday entertainment, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
December 1, 2023 – January 2, 2024. Dusk to 9:30 p.m. • Joe W. Brown Park, 5601 Read Blvd., New Orleans
Join NORD for its annual Holiday In The Park! Come experience the beautiful holiday lights, displays, music, family-friendly fun, and much more!
Porter Lyons Christmas Wonderland + Meet Santa
December 9. 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. • Porter Lyons, 623 Royal St., New Orleans
Be transported to a magical Winter Wonderland at Porter Lyons in the heart of the French Quarter. Bring your little ones to meet Santa, write letters, decorate cookies, and ho ho so much more.
December 9. 9:30-11 a.m. • Restaurant R’evolution, 777 Bienville St., New Orleans
Children can wear their favorite holiday pajamas, deliver their wish list, and visit with Santa and the Sugarplum Fairy Princess. Sip only the best house-made hot chocolate and warm apple cider or enjoy delicious food while decorating your own cookies!
December 9. 7-10 p.m. • Copeland Tower Living, 2601 Severn Ave., Metairie
Join the nice list just in time for the holidays by supporting East Jefferson YMCA’s 3rd Annual Santa Soiree featuring local cuisine, live music, pictures with Santa and more festive activities.
December 18-20. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. • The Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St., New Orleans
This winter break, give your child the gift of artistic exploration and a playful creative outlet. Join Mikhayla Harrell and the Museum Teen Interns for three days of joyful arts and crafts projects, all inspired by the seven Elements of Art and Ogden Museum’s current exhibitions.
December 18-22. 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Rd., New Orleans
School’s out! Students ages 5 to 10 can spend holiday breaks at Longue Vue seasonal camps to explore the gardens, create art, play games, and engage in fun activities based around the seasons.