The National Geographic Traveler lists New Orleans as one of the Best Trips of 2014. They mention our hot summer months as the time to come for hotel deals in New Orleans, but we know that December is also a great time to visit our city for fun activities and holiday specials.
While we may not have snow in New Orleans, there are many places that twinkle with lights and fun activities to fill your December days and nights. Our favorite is Celebration in the Oaks in City Park.
Cajun Night Before Christmas light display at City Park Celebration in the Oaks
It opens November 29 and runs through the holiday season. City Park’s oak trees are covered in hundreds of thousands of white lights amid extravagant, detailed light displays across 13 acres. There are musical events and entertainment ranging from children’s choirs and bands to Irish dancing.
The new light display opening this year is Christmas in the District. Launching November 30 along the Convention Center is an incredible ribbon of lights and spectacular displays synchronized to New Orleans Christmas music.
Modern Market on Magazine Street nominated as 2013 “Retail Star to Watch”
New Orleans consistently rates high among travel writers and travel magazine readers as a great city for shopping. In and around the French Quarter you can find everything from original artwork and grand antiques to handcrafted voodoo dolls. On the edge of the quarter, the French Market is the oldest public market in the country and is the best place to find regional food items, local music cds, and gifts for every family member back home.
Running through our Garden District neighborhood, where our New Orleans bed and breakfast is located, is the world-renowned Magazine Street. Six miles of some of the best antique stores, art galleries, craft shops and classy boutiques to be found anywhere in the city. During the month of December, the stores have extended hours, holiday decorations, and hold special sales and events to celebrate the Merriment of the Holiday Season.
“Wake up” to a holiday feast at your favorite restaurant!
Reveillon Dinners are a Creole tradition from the 1800’s to “wake up” with a dinner following midnight mass. This holiday convention has been transformed in restaurants that serve sumptuous holiday feasts at incredible rates.
Currently 34 restaurants are offering 4-course meals starting at $34.00, including our neighborhood restaurants: Commander’s Palace, Upperline, Brigtsen’s and Martinque Bistro. Christmas New Orleans Style also lists which restaurants are open on Christmas and New Years.
Check with us next week for information on holiday home tours, Christmas concerts, bonfires to light the way and more. Check out our New Orleans bed and breakfast special at our New Orleans bed and breakfast today for your chance to stay in this historic city this holiday season.