Things to Do in New Orleans Louisiana in December
New Orleans is a city that knows how to celebrate the holidays. From the festive atmosphere of Jackson Square to the lively music clubs on Frenchmen Street, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Crescent City during December. Here are a few ideas for things to do in New Orleans in December:
One of the most popular holiday traditions in New Orleans is the Reveillon Dinner. This meal is typically served on Christmas Eve and features a variety of Cajun and Creole dishes. Some of the most common dishes served at a Reveillon Dinner include gumbo, jambalaya, and seafood. Many restaurants in New Orleans offer Reveillon Dinners, so be sure to make reservations in advance.
Attend a Holiday Concert
The New Orleans Symphony Orchestra presents its annual Holiday Pops concert series at the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. The concerts feature a variety of holiday classics, as well as some special guests. The Holiday Pops concerts are a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra also presents a series of holiday concerts at the Orpheum Theater. The concerts feature a variety of holiday music, including classical, jazz, and popular songs. The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra’s holiday concerts are a great way to enjoy the holiday season with the whole family.
Stroll through Jackson Square
Jackson Square is the heart of the French Quarter and it’s especially beautiful during the holidays. The square is decorated with twinkling lights and Christmas trees, and there’s usually a live Nativity scene. Jackson Square is a great place to stroll around and soak up the holiday atmosphere.
Visit the Christmas Fair at the Old US Mint
The Christmas Fair at the Old US Mint is a holiday market featuring local artisans and vendors. The fair is held in the courtyard of the Old US Mint, which is a beautiful historic building. The Christmas Fair is a great place to find unique gifts and holiday decorations.
Take a Holiday Walking Tour
There are several holiday walking tours available in New Orleans. These tours typically visit some of the city’s most popular holiday attractions, such as Jackson Square, the French Market, and the Garden District. Holiday walking tours are a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture.
Visit the Garden District
The Garden District is a historic neighborhood known for its beautiful homes and gardens. During the holidays, the Garden District is decorated with twinkling lights and Christmas trees. It’s a great place to take a stroll and admire the holiday decorations.
Go Ice Skating at the Rink at Rockefeller Center
The Rink at Rockefeller Center is a popular ice skating rink located in the heart of New York City. The rink is open from October to April and offers a variety of skating sessions, including public skating, private lessons, and group skating lessons. The Rink at Rockefeller Center is a great place to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some ice skating.
See the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes is a holiday show that has been performed at Radio City Music Hall since 1933. The show features the Rockettes, a precision dance troupe, as well as live music, singing, and dancing. The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some entertainment.
Attend the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a holiday tradition that has been held in New York City since 1924. The parade features giant balloons, floats, and marching bands. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some family fun.
Visit the St. Louis Zoo
The St. Louis Zoo is a great place to visit during the holidays. The zoo is decorated with twinkling lights and Christmas trees, and there are several holiday-themed activities, such as a petting zoo and a holiday light show. The St. Louis Zoo is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some family fun.
Holiday Traditions in New Orleans
New Orleans is a city with a rich culture and history, and the holidays are no exception. The city’s unique blend of French, Spanish, and African influences has created a variety of holiday traditions that are unique to New Orleans.
One of the most popular holiday traditions in New Orleans is the Reveillon Dinner. This meal is typically served on Christmas Eve and features a variety of Cajun and Creole dishes. Some of the most common dishes served at a Reveillon Dinner include gumbo, jambalaya, and seafood. Many restaurants in New Orleans offer Reveillon Dinners, so be sure to make reservations in advance.
Tips for Celebrating the Holidays in New Orleans
Here are a few tips for celebrating the holidays in New Orleans:
- Plan ahead. The holidays are a busy time in New Orleans, so be sure to plan your activities and make reservations in advance.
- Dress warmly. The weather in New Orleans can be unpredictable during the holidays, so be sure to dress warmly.
- Walk or take public transportation. The French Quarter and other popular holiday destinations are best explored on foot or by public transportation.
- Enjoy the city’s unique culture. New Orleans is a city with a rich culture and history, so be sure to enjoy the city’s unique holiday traditions.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the holidays in New Orleans:
- Q: What is the weather like in New Orleans during the holidays?
- A: The weather in New Orleans during the holidays can be unpredictable. It can be warm and sunny, or it can be cold and rainy. Be sure to dress warmly and check the weather forecast before you go.
- Q: What are some of the most popular holiday attractions in New Orleans?
- A: Some of the most popular holiday attractions in New Orleans include Jackson Square, the French Market, the Garden District, and the St. Louis Zoo.
- Q: What is a Reveillon Dinner?
- A: A Reveillon Dinner is a traditional holiday meal that is typically served on Christmas Eve in New Orleans. The meal features a variety of Cajun and Creole dishes.
Conclusion
New Orleans is a great place to celebrate the holidays. The city’s unique blend of French, Spanish, and African influences has created a variety of holiday traditions that are unique to New Orleans. From the festive atmosphere of Jackson Square to the lively music clubs on Frenchmen Street, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Crescent City during December.
So come on down to New Orleans this holiday season and experience the city’s unique holiday traditions. You won’t be disappointed.
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