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12 Things To Do In New Orleans Over the Holidays

Have you ever wondered how you could shake up your holiday tradition? Heading to New Orleans and experiencing its fantastic cuisine and culture is a brilliant place to start. 

It’s impossible to think about New Orleans without being flooded with wonder. The city is famed worldwide for its unique dishes, spectacular festivals, and toe-tapping music. It’s a destination that enriches your imagination at every corner, so we want to make sure you don’t miss a single holiday spot.

We have the top 12 things to do in New Orleans for your next holiday vacation. Are you in New Orleans for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas? Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with kids, you’ll have a grand old time!

 

a plate of food on a table

Queso for all!

#1: Sidewalk Food Tours Of New Orleans

With New Orleans one of the world’s food capitals, it’s best to have a food guide on your side. You don’t want to miss out on some of the most delicious and unique dishes you’ve ever had, right?

Our walking food tour takes you through the fascinating French Quarter and Lower Garden District. You’ll sample many of New Orleans’ signature foods such as chargrilled oysters, Creole soul food, Cajun bites, and delectable daiquiris. We’ll also feed the soul by teaching you about the history and tradition of these businesses and the culture as a whole.

 

a person preparing food in a kitchen looking at their digital cooking class on their phone

We have a blast!

#2: Cooking Class Of New Orleans

What’s one of the most heartwarming ways to spend the holidays? Why, cooking, of course! If you want to brush up on your cooking skills, sign up for our cooking class of New Orleans.

Whether you want to spend time with the family or do team-building activities, our cooking classes will get everyone in the creative spirit. You’ll have access to top chefs who will warm everyone up with fun trivia, then create interesting challenges and step-by-step cooking activities. We also offer mixology classes if you want to become your very own bartender. 

 

someone dressed up walking in the Krewe of Boo parade in New Orleans

New Orleans’ Official Halloween Parade

#3: Bring The Kids To Krewe Of Boo 

Every October, the French Quarter in New Orleans transforms into the legendary Halloween parade Krewe Of Boo. Founded back in 2007, it’s now a New Orleans staple for families to enjoy the spooky spirit of Halloween.

This parade is one of the most fun things to do in New Orleans thanks to its spectacular floats and lively festival organizers. Children will love all the costumes and can collect all sorts of goodies like medallion beads, doubloons, and candy. 

 

Spooky oak trees at night with an empty bench in between

Spoo000ky

#4: Enjoy A Classic Halloween Experience At Ghosts In The Oaks 

Do you want to enjoy a classic Halloween trick-or-treating experience, but in the heart of New Orleans? Ghosts In The Oaks offers a little bit of everything in the scenic New Orleans City Park.

This chill, yet spooky event is prime for families who want to add traditional events to their family photo album. Everyone can come together to do trick-or-treating, run through pumpkin patches, and enjoy some arts and crafts. There will even be a campfire to roast some hot dogs. 

For more fun things to do in New Orleans, visit the park’s botanical garden or amusement park.

 

a group of people riding on the back of a horse

It’s such a fun time!

#5: Get Into The Racing Spirit At The Thanksgiving Derby 

Are you wondering if New Orleans can supplement your Thanksgiving traditions? The Fairgrounds Race Course is a local staple during Thanksgiving weekend, offering thrills with turkey dinner.

Watching the races is a great way to get the blood pumping and enjoy the spirit of friendly competition. You can also sign up for a holiday buffet or traditional holiday dinner at the racetrack’s famous Clubhouse. Just remember you’ll need to get your reservations early, as they fill up fast!

 

Stone bridge over pond with green foliage in City Park, New Orleans

It’s a beautiful place!

#6: Go On A Relaxing Walk Through Celebration In The Oaks

New Orleans City Park is more than just a solid pick for Halloween. This picturesque location also creates a one-of-a-kind adventure during Christmas, offering plenty of fodder for your family album.

During December, the park is lit up with twenty-five acres of holiday displays. It draws over 135,000 people from around the world to see its towering oak trees wrapped in glittering lights. This is one holiday light festival you won’t want to miss, so grab your camera (and your scarf!)

 

a tree in the dark

An adventure!

#7: Pick Up Some History With Mansion Home Tours

If you have an exceptionally soft spot for tradition, history, and fun trivia, keep reading. The French Quarter and Garden District open up their mansions during the holiday seasons so you can get up close and personal.

These tours let you enjoy the beautiful architecture and furniture of old homes. You’ll also get to enjoy some live musical performances.

 

Nutcracker in front of a decorated home

Not your average nutcracker!

#8: Witness A Fun Spin On A Classic Tale With The Hip Hop Nutcracker

You likely know about the Nutcracker, but have you seen it through the lens of hip hop dance and music? Swing by the Mahalia Jackson Theater to watch the beloved Hip Hop Nutcracker.

The performance mixes trip-hop, dance, and classical music for a truly catchy combination. The production is fueled by all-star dancers and musicians, resulting in a spin on a holiday classic you won’t soon forget.

 

a woman standing on a sidewalk

It’s for the whole family!

#9: Get In Touch With Your Inner Child With The LUNA Fête

When’s the last time you brought a little magic into your life? This annual light festival brightens up the night during November, making it a wondrous addition to your Thanksgiving traditions.

This multi-day event combines light shows, fashion, and film to create some of the most stunning art installations you’ve ever seen. It’s an engaging event for families with kids or getting back in touch with your inner child.

 

Sheet music in front of a christmas tree

Let’s sing together!

#10: Sing Your Heart Out With Jackson Square Caroling

Once Christmas in New Orleans rolls around, it’s natural to crave a carol or two. The Candlelight Caroling gathers in Jackson Square to sing classics as well as new songs. 

Whether you like to sing in the shower or have some professional experience, all singers are welcomed to join in on the fun.

 

White ice skates hanging up against a red wall

All your winter activities in downtown NOLA!

#11: Pick Up Your Skates At The NOLA ChristmasFest

Want to learn how to ice skate while celebrating Christmas in New Orleans? The NOLA ChristmasFest is a staple at the New Orleans Convention Center for families of all shapes and sizes.

Alongside a quaint Gingerbread Village and giant Christmas tree, there are ice skating and ice sliding activities galore. 

 

fireworks in the sky

5-4-3-2-1 Happy New Year!

#12: Count Down To New Year’s Eve At Jackson Square

Top off the holiday season and swing by Jackson Square to count down to the New Year. Live musical performances, parties, and local events will all be in full swing.

Children will still have plenty of fun things to do in New Orleans at The Louisiana Children’s Museum. They’ll have a slew of exciting games, tasty food, and confetti drops. No matter what, everyone will have an unforgettable time!

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