Your Guide to Holiday Magic Across South Louisiana | December Edition
December in South Louisiana just hits different. Cooler breezes, soft light, family traditions, and neighborhoods glowing with holiday colors — it’s the time of year when our communities feel warm, joyful, and alive.
Whether you’re planning festive outings, searching for last-minute gifts, or simply wanting to make memories close to home, here’s your guide to what’s happening this month across New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and the Northshore.
🎄 NEW ORLEANS
✨ Best Holiday Light Displays
Celebration in the Oaks — All December
City Park turns into a glowing wonderland of millions of lights, themed displays, a walking tour, and a festive train ride. Whether you’re driving or strolling through, this is the must-see holiday tradition in NOLA.
🎺 Local Traditions
Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade — December
You know December has officially arrived when the streets fill with holiday floats, marching bands, giant balloons, and pure cheer. The parade weaves through the French Quarter with all the magic families look forward to.
Algiers Bonfire & Concert — December 6
A beloved New Orleans bonfire tradition — live music, local flavor, and the official lighting of the holiday season on the river.
🛍️ Markets for Last-Minute Shopping
Need a hostess gift, a stocking stuffer, or something handmade and local? You’re covered:
Holly Jolly Market — Dec 4
Home décor, handcrafted gifts, and holiday treats.
Merrimont Night Market — Dec 6
Evening shopping + unique pop-ups + community energy.
Bayou Gardens Holiday Market — Dec 13
Over 30 local vendors with festive goods and seasonal fun.
🎡 Family-Friendly Weekend Ideas
NOLA ChristmasFest
Ice slides, ice bumper cars, festive entertainment, and indoor winter magic — perfect for families looking for something special.
Holiday Concerts Around the City
Choose from Classical Christmas: Messiah, Holiday Spectacular, or the iconic Caroling in Jackson Square.
🎄 BATON ROUGE
✨ Best Holiday Light Experiences
Festival of Lights – December 5
Baton Rouge’s oldest holiday tradition returns! Head to North Boulevard Town Square for the lighting of the 25-foot Christmas tree, ice skating, fireworks, and a festive evening the whole family will love.
🎺 Local Traditions
Skating on the River — Starts December 11
A beloved winter activity returns! A festive indoor ice rink perfect for families and winter lovers.
The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou — Dec 20–21
A uniquely Louisiana take on the holiday classic, blending tradition with local storytelling.
🛍️ Last-Minute Markets
From holiday pop-ups to local makers’ markets, Baton Rouge offers easy spots to pick up gifts before the celebrations begin.
🎶 Family-Friendly Weekend Ideas
Baton Rouge Concert Band Christmas Concert — Dec 7
A free, festive concert featuring classic holiday music and joyful modern favorites.
🎉 New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ring in the new year with downtown celebrations, art activities for kids, and the traditional Red Stick drop at midnight.
🎄 NORTHSHORE
✨ Best Holiday Light Displays
Covington’s 12 Days of Christmas — All December
Charming lighted displays bring downtown to life with festive scenes and holiday character.
Holiday of Lights — Month-long Celebration
Drive-through and walk-through experiences with lights, music, and joyful surprises as the festival celebrates its 26th year.
🎁 Local Traditions
Christmas in the Country — Weekends Starting Nov 28–29
Saturdays become festive with shopping, home décor, fashion, antiques, music, seasonal treats, and small-town holiday charm.
🛍️ Markets for Last-Minute Shopping
Christmas Extravaganza Arts & Crafts Expo — Dec 5–7
With more than 400 vendors, this giant holiday market delivers Santa’s-workshop energy and endless gift inspiration.
🎶 Family-Friendly Weekend Ideas
Mandeville’s Winter on the Water Parade & Festival — Dec 6
Welcome Santa, enjoy performances (including The Nutcracker), and celebrate with the community along the lakefront.
🎉 New Year’s Eve on the Northshore
Merry Madisonville: Countdown on the Tchefuncte
A scenic, family-friendly way to end the year with fireworks and waterfront views.
🌟 Celebrate the Season in South Louisiana
No matter where you call home — New Orleans, Baton Rouge, or the Northshore — December brings endless ways to make memories, support local businesses, and enjoy the holiday sparkle that fills our communities.
If you’re visiting for the first time or hosting friends in town, don’t miss more ideas here:
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