In New Orleans, there are twelve things to do in December.

One of the highlights of the Christmas season is New Orleans' LUNA Fête, a seasonal tradition. The Children's Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade, NOLA ChristmasFest, Réveillon banquets, and Celebration in the Oaks are all part of it. Book DTW flights to New Orleans and enjoy all the activities this winter.

The Oaks Walk/Drive Walk-Through Celebration

Every Christmas season, fireworks light up City Park as part of the New Orleans tradition known as Celebration in the Oaks. Explore the Botanical Gardens at Carousel Gardens Amusement Park or take in the illumination over 2.5 kilometers of the park this year. For a magical holiday experience, purchase tickets between November 23 and December 30.

Do some holiday shopping

New Orleans has a wide range of unusual gift possibilities for the holidays, such as art markets, bookstores, boutiques, and museum gift shops. Magazine Street is a major shopping destination, offering distinctive artwork by regional artisans and Sazerac House glassware for home bars. Museum Store Sunday is another well-liked occasion. I look forward to our 2023 Christmas gift guide soon.

Take in the New Orleans Parade

Large, pageant-style floats with animatronics, local musicians singing carols, helium balloons, and Santa Claus are all featured in the Children's Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade, which takes place on December 2 at 11 a.m. There's food, music, and other festivities at Lafayette Square following the parade.

Visit NOLA ChristmasFest to go ice skating

From December 21 to 30, the Convention Centre will host NOLA ChristmasFest, an indoor Christmas celebration complete with seasonal décor, an ice slide, an ice skating rink, a yuletide market, a gingerbread town, and Santa picture opportunities.

For dancing, musicals, and more, visit the theatre

Live theatrical productions such as "WICKED" at the Saenger Theatre, "Fantômes: Deux" by Mélange Dance Company, and "Nutcracker" by New Orleans Ballet Theatre are available in December in New Orleans. The "Jazz Nutcracker" by Marigny Opera Ballet is back at the Opera House. See a show or two by consulting our fall theatre guide.

Take Part in the Tradition of Réveillon Dining

Traditions surrounding holiday meals date back to the 1800s, and on Christmas Day, Creole New Orleanians feast on Réveillon. Throughout December, restaurants all across the city serve opulent multi-course Réveillon feasts, highlighting the lengthy history of this joyous occasion.

Take a Tour of Holiday Homes

On December 9 and 10, a Christmas boutique, live musical performances, and private Garden District residences will all be included in the Preservation Resource Centre Home Tour. A beautiful and historic tour of French Quarter Holiday Home Tours in Vieux Carré is offered on December 17 by the community organization Patio Planters, which raises money for Carolling in Jackson Square. The tour is self-guided.

See a Holiday Performance

Christmas performances are held at St. Louis Cathedral and Ashé Powerhouse Theatre, and on December 22 at the Saenger, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will perform "Elf TM in Concert." On December 17 at 7 o'clock, there will be live orchestration while caroling in Jackson Square.

Take in the Holiday Lights

Starting with St. Louis Cathedral, Canal Street in New Orleans is a favorite place for seasonal decorations. Both hotel and city lobby decorations are done for the holiday season. This December, the free public lights events LUNA Fête and Greenway Supernova, both full of Christmas splendor, are returning.

See a game between the Saints and Pelicans

With professional leagues like the Saints facing the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, and New York Giants at Caesars Superdome in December, fall sports are in full flow. The R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl and Allstate Sugar Bowl are also popular among college football fans.

In New Orleans, celebrate Kwanzaa and Hanukkah

New Orleans will be celebrating Hanukkah with latkes and holiday cheer from December 7–15. Favorite events return, including the Mobile Menorah Parade and Chanukah at Riverwalk. Attend the Kwanzaa events at Ashé Cultural Arts Centre during the final week of December.

Celebrate the New Year in NOLA Fashion

Live music, delectable food, and fireworks can be found throughout the vivacious city of New Orleans. Before the adult celebrations start, there are afternoon events at the Children's Museum and the Audubon Zoo. Book cheap flights from Detroit to New Orleans to enjoy New Orleans activities.