Christmas (Dec. 25)
New Orleans might be best known for Mardi Gras, but given the city’s historic Catholic churches and renowned gospel performers, it’s not surprising that Christmas also is celebrated in style. For locals, the month of December means caroling in Jackson Square or attending midnight mass at the French Quarter’s St. Louis Cathedral. There’s also the "Celebration in the Oaks" (Nov. 24-Dec. 31) in City Park, which transforms centuries-old oak trees into a Southern-style winter wonderland featuring millions of decorative lights, holiday displays, an Olympic-sized ice skating rink, nightly entertainment, Christmas music and more. Walking and drive-through tours are available.
Other popular Yuletide offerings include the annual performance of Handel’s Messiah at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre for the Performing Arts. The Jefferson Ballet Theatre offers the holiday favorite The Nutcracker, and music superstar Aaron Neville traditionally sings Christmas carols at the St. Jude Shrine-Rectory on Rampart Street. One of the more unique traditions in the state are the Christmas bonfires that light up the levees along the Mississippi River, just outside the city. These traditionally shine the way for Papa Noel to find his way to the Crescent City.
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