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Louisiana’s Christmas celebrations are unlike any other. With its unique blend of culture, history, and holiday spirit, the state offers countless opportunities to enjoy the season. From breathtaking light displays to festive parades and delicious meals, the 13 best things to do in Louisiana during Christmas will make your holiday season unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring New Orleans, attending a Christmas festival, or enjoying a cozy meal, Louisiana promises a Christmas experience full of magic, tradition, and Southern charm.
13 Best Things to Do in Louisiana During Christmas
Christmas in Louisiana is like stepping into a holiday wonderland where vibrant culture, rich history, and festive traditions come together in perfect harmony. As someone who’s spent many magical Christmas seasons in this beautiful state, I can tell you firsthand that Louisiana is a place that knows how to celebrate the season. From the lively streets of New Orleans to the charming small towns scattered throughout the state, Louisiana has an endless array of holiday activities that will make your Christmas unforgettable.
Whether you’re a local looking for new holiday traditions or a traveler hoping to experience something unique, Louisiana offers a unique holiday experience. You can enjoy everything from bayou cruises adorned with Christmas lights to festive parades featuring music and dancing. The blend of French, Spanish, and Creole influences adds an undeniable flair to the holiday season here, making it feel extra special.
In this guide, I’ll explain the 13 best things to do in Louisiana during Christmas so you can make the most of your holiday season and experience the state’s festive spirit.
1. Experience the Magic of Celebration in the Oaks – New Orleans
One of Louisiana’s most iconic Christmas events is Celebration in the Oaks in New Orleans. This stunning light display occurs in City Park, transforming the park into a winter wonderland filled with millions of sparkling lights.
What to Expect:
- Over a million twinkling lights decorating the park’s oak trees.
- A magical train ride through the park, offering a whimsical view of the lights.
- Carousel Gardens, where you can ride the historic carousel with your family.
- A festive holiday market perfect for finding unique gifts.
As you stroll through the park, you’ll immerse yourself in a wonder. It’s a Christmas tradition you won’t want to miss.
2. Stroll Through the French Quarter Christmas Decorations
The French Quarter in New Orleans takes on an entirely new level of charm during the holiday season. The historic district is beautifully decorated with festive lights, wreaths, and garlands, making it a perfect spot for a holiday stroll.
Why It’s Special:
- Traditional Creole decorations and lights.
- Historic buildings with windows adorned in wreaths and bows.
- The opportunity to enjoy holiday treats like beignets dusted with powdered sugar and hot chocolate.
The energy of the French Quarter, combined with the holiday spirit, makes it one of the most magical places to visit in Louisiana during Christmas.
3. Attend the Natchitoches Christmas Festival
Natchitoches, the oldest town in Louisiana, is known for its Christmas Festival, a dazzling event that attracts visitors nationwide. Over 300,000 lights illuminate the entire town, culminating in a beautiful fireworks display over Cane River Lake.
What to Expect:
- Over 300,000 lights lighting up downtown Natchitoches.
- A beautiful fireworks display on Christmas Eve.
- Horse-drawn carriage rides through the town.
- Unique shopping and dining options in the quaint historic district.
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is the epitome of small-town charm, and it’s a perfect way to experience a Louisiana Christmas.
4. Cruise Along the Bayou for a Christmas Lights Tour
If you’ve ever wanted to experience a Louisiana Christmas from the water, the Louisiana Bayou Christmas Lights Tour is a must-see. These boat tours take you through the bayous, where you can admire houses decorated with twinkling lights reflecting off the water.
What’s Special:
- Get a unique view of holiday lights from the water.
- Learn about the region’s rich culture from your guide.
- A relaxing way to soak in the holiday magic.
This is definitely one of the best things to do in Louisiana during Christmas for an unforgettable experience.
5. See the Krewe of Jingle Parade – Baton Rouge
The Krewe of Jingle Parade in Baton Rouge is a fantastic holiday event that combines Louisiana’s love of parades with festive cheer. The parade features beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and plenty of holiday spirit.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Festive floats and bands marching through downtown Baton Rouge.
- Free to attend, making it a great family outing.
- The entire community comes together for a celebration of Christmas.
Attending the Krewe of Jingle Parade is a great way to experience Louisiana’s holiday traditions while enjoying some of its best aspects of culture.
6. Indulge in a Traditional Louisiana Christmas Feast
No Christmas in Louisiana would be complete without indulging in a delicious holiday meal. Louisiana’s culinary traditions, from gumbo to pralines, take on a festive flair during Christmas.
What to Try:
- Gumbo: A hearty, flavorful dish with seafood or sausage.
- King Cake: A holiday treat that’s as much fun to eat as it is to share.
- Pralines: Sweet, sugary treats that are a Louisiana staple.
Many restaurants offer special Christmas menus combining classic Creole and Cajun dishes, so enjoy a festive feast during your visit.
7. Explore the Baton Rouge Holiday Lights at the Louisiana State Capitol
The Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge is beautifully illuminated during the holiday season. Over a hundred thousand lights adorn the Capitol building and surrounding grounds, and the Holiday Lights display is spectacular.
What’s Special:
- Free to visit and enjoy.
- The chance to take holiday photos in front of the lit-up Capitol.
- It is a family-friendly event with free activities and treats.
This is a wonderful way to experience Louisiana’s capital during Christmas.
8. Take a Stroll Down Magazine Street – New Orleans
Magazine Street in New Orleans is one of the city’s most famous streets, and during Christmas, it’s filled with holiday spirit. Everything along this street, from boutique shops to cafes, is decked out for the holidays.
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
- The perfect place for holiday shopping.
- You can enjoy holiday window displays and decorations.
- A laid-back atmosphere to enjoy the holiday vibe at your own pace.
For a more intimate and relaxing holiday experience, strolling down Magazine Street is one of the best things to do in New Orleans during Christmas.
9. Experience the Christmas Festival at the Louisiana Renaissance Festival
If you love the idea of a medieval-themed Christmas, the Louisiana Renaissance Festival offers a fun, festive experience. Set in a beautiful village, the festival combines holiday cheer with medieval performances, arts, crafts, and food.
What to Expect:
- A medieval Christmas market with unique gifts.
- Entertainment like jousting and medieval music.
- Christmas-themed performances and shows.
The Louisiana Renaissance Festival is a great way to experience Christmas in a fun, unique setting.
10. Shop at the Baton Rouge Holiday Market
The Baton Rouge Holiday Market is great for locally made gifts and festive foods. This market features a variety of vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious holiday treats.
What You’ll Find:
- Handcrafted gifts from local artisans.
- Holiday foods like sweets, cheeses, and meats.
- The chance to support local businesses and find one-of-a-kind gifts.
For those who love to shop locally, the Baton Rouge Holiday Market is a must-visit during Christmas.
11. Take a Tour of the Audubon Zoo Lights – New Orleans
The Audubon Zoo in New Orleans hosts a beautiful Christmas lights display that’s perfect for families. The zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of sparkling lights decorating the grounds.
What to Expect:
- Over a million lights decorating the zoo.
- Holiday-themed activities and performances.
- The chance to see exotic animals in a festive setting.
This event is great for animal lovers and families looking for a fun and festive activity.
12. Enjoy the Christmas Concerts at the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra hosts several holiday concerts throughout December, offering a classical take on the Christmas season. The performances include traditional holiday songs and festive music to get you in the holiday spirit.
What to Expect:
- Classic holiday music performed by a live orchestra.
- Special holiday concerts featuring guest artists and choirs.
- It is a sophisticated and elegant way to enjoy the season.
If you enjoy classical music and want a more refined holiday experience, a concert with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra is necessary.
13. Experience the Christmas Lights at the Shreveport Christmas Trail
The Shreveport Christmas Trail is a driving tour of the city’s best Christmas lights. It takes you through several neighborhoods and landmarks, offering a stunning display of holiday lights.
Why It’s Worth It:
- It is free to visit and easy to enjoy.
- A self-guided tour with a chance to stop at various light displays.
- Great for families or anyone who loves to see extravagant Christmas lights.
This is a perfect way to enjoy Louisiana’s Christmas lights from the comfort of your car.
FAQs About Christmas in Missouri
What is the best time to visit Missouri during Christmas?
The best time to visit Missouri during Christmas is from mid-November to early January, when the holiday events and light displays are in full swing. The week before Christmas offers a festive atmosphere with fewer crowds, making it ideal for enjoying Christmas markets, light shows, and seasonal activities. However, if you prefer a quieter experience, visiting in early December can also be a great option.
Are there free Christmas activities in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri offers several free Christmas activities. Many cities, such as the Winter Wonderland at Tilles Park in St. Louis, host free light displays. You can also enjoy Christmas parades, like the one in Branson, and explore local Christmas markets without any cost to enter. Additionally, outdoor ice skating rinks, like the one in Clayton, often have free admission on certain days, making it easy to enjoy the holiday season on a budget.
Can you see the holiday lights at Silver Dollar City?
You can see spectacular holiday lights at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri. During their “An Old Time Christmas” event, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 6.5 million lights. The dazzling light displays, along with festive music, rides, and holiday shows, create an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. It’s one of the most popular places in Missouri to celebrate Christmas.
Is there a Christmas train ride in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri offers several Christmas train rides, one of the most popular being the Polar Express Train Ride in Branson. This magical experience transports visitors to the North Pole with hot chocolate, festive music, and a visit from Santa. Another favorite is the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Gardenland Express, where a train takes you through beautiful holiday displays. These rides are a delightful way to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit!
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