The holiday season in New Orleans is traditionally festive and charming, with bright lights outlining the colorful French architecture, joyful music, and delicious food. Older adults tend to avoid the cold weather, so regardless of whether your grandparents live in the Big Easy or are coming in from out of town, December temperatures are still pleasantly warm enough to experience the city’s enchanting ambiance and joyous atmosphere.
Below, we have gathered a list of things to do with grandparents in New Orleans this upcoming holiday season. We update this article every year, so be sure to look for links throughout the text with helpful resources and event details.
Grandparents play a vital role in creating a heartfelt atmosphere. The sense of wisdom and the creation of cherished memories bring families together during this festive holiday. We hope this article inspires you to make this Christmas, Hanukkah, or whatever tradition you may celebrate the best yet!
Christmas Bonfire and Concert
Early settlers of Cajun descent created bonfires with wooden logs to light a path toward Christmas mass. Thus, every year throughout New Orleans, you can find bonfires across the levee. This holiday season, we recommend attending the Algiers Holiday Bonfire and Concert on December 7th.
Caroling in Jackson Square
One of our favorite annual events is Christmas caroling in the French Quarter. This free, non-denominational community event gathers around the beautifully lit historic architecture in Jackson Square. Since 1946, Patio Planters of the Vieux Carre has sponsored this fantastic event. This year’s event takes place on Sunday, Dec 22nd, at 7 pm.
Celebration In The Oaks
Stroll through the renowned Celebration in the Oaks, where City Park transforms into a winter wonderland and ice-skating rink. Experience festive parades and lively holiday music. With over a million holiday lights, this unique and awe-inspiring fundraiser is one of the largest displays of lights in the nation, taking place Nov 23rd – Jan 3rd.
Midnight Mass At St. Louis Cathedral
Spend midnight Mass at the famous St. Louis Cathedral and enjoy the sounds of carolers echoing through the streets of the French Quarter. St. Louis Cathedral is a sight not to be missed, especially on Christmas. This colonial 1727 church has been at the city center’s worship for over 280 years. Be sure to check out the Midnight Mass Schedule here.
Réveillon in New Orleans
Reveillon is a French word that means “awakening.” Traditional New Orleans Christmas dinners are often referred to as Reveillon and can be found throughout the city during the holiday season. These dinners typically are long celebrations with multiple courses and French wine. Here is a list of Reveillon dinners throughout the city.
Old Town Christmas Market In Slidell
Come and join 100 local vendors, food crafts, and antiques at this year’s Christmas Market! Get all your shopping done locally! Taking place on Nov 26th and 26th. More information here.
10th Annual NOLA Christmasfest At The Convention Center
This indoor, family holiday fest takes place at NOLA’s convention center from Dec 20th – 30th. Enjoy ice skating, gingerbread houses, carnival rides, and endless entertainment. Be sure to get tickets online here.
Conclusion
We hope this article inspires you to plan the best Christmas possible for you and your family in New Orleans. If you are looking for assisted living and memory care in New Orleans, please don’t hesitate to contact Peristyle Residences today. Our trained caregiving staff specializes in helping seniors with activities of daily living. We also offer respite care for individuals requiring short-term assisted living.
