The year is wrapping up, but the fun doesn't stop in New Orleans
Is December a Good Time to Visit New Orleans?
In a city born and bred for festivities, the holiday season is a spectacular time to visit the Big Easy. With beautiful light displays, mild temperatures, and highly anticipated sporting events, New Orleans thrives in the early “winter”-time. Plus, enjoy uniquely New Orleans December spirit with jazz Christmas tunes, Réveillon Dinners, and the city’s favorite snowman Mr. Bingle.
What to do in December in New Orleans?
Close out the year with a number of different holiday celebrations, outdoor activities and a wide selection of light shows and displays this December.
December in New Orleans kicks off in true New Orleans fashion with the Manning Family Children’s Hospital New Orleans Parade, a larger-than-life holiday parade that rolls through the French Quarter and Downtown. Mr. and Mrs. Claus, Mr. Bingle, Rudolph, and more make special appearances along the route.
Sporting Events
December is filled with football in New Orleans, including the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl, which hosts several fan fests and events perfect for all ages. If you’re looking for the classic New Orleans sports experience, be sure to check out one of the regular season games for the Saints and Pelicans.
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(1) Algiers Point Bonfire and Concert, (2) Réveillon Dining at MaMou, (3) Lights on St. Charles Avenue
The ultimate Christmas precursor takes place atop the levees along the Mississippi River with the Christmas Eve bonfires. Friends and families gather together in anticipation of the coming holiday while stunning bonfires light the way for Santa and his reindeer. Coming earlier in the month? Check out the Algiers Bonfire and Concert, which typically takes place the first weekend of December. You can hop aboard the ferry and find an impressive fire display, live music, and more.
Réveillon is a French tradition where families and communities come together for a feast to celebrate Christmas Eve, and many restaurants in New Orleans carry on this tradition throughout the month of December. At participating restaurants across the city, enjoy specially crafted prix-fixe menus and cocktails. Everything from traditional New Orleans cuisine to international twists can be found on these decadent holiday menus.
Light Displays
Stretching throughout the month of December, Celebration in the Oaks is an annual holiday tradition. Beautiful holiday-themed decorations illuminate the historic oak trees within City Park. Bring your friends, family, or a very special someone to admire the displays and enjoy the rides throughout the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, New Orleans Botanical Garden, and beyond.
New Orleanians also love to deck out their homes and front yards with holiday lights. Hop on the St. Charles streetcar to enjoy magical twinkles along the whole avenue.
Cheryl Gerber
New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve Celebrations
Held in the French Quarter at Woldenberg Park, New Orleans Eve features live performances from local DJs and bands. This open-air concert is free to attend, and attendees may bring camp-style chairs as well as outside food and drink. The concert begins at 9 p.m. and goes until the countdown to fireworks at midnight. Earlier in the day, the Louisiana Children’s Museum hosts Noon Year's Eve, a celebration for kids during the day before the adult celebrations kick off that night. Check here for the latest on New Year’s celebrations, and may the party begin!
This is just a small glimpse of all December in New Orleans has to offer. Browse the events below, our list of Top Things to Do in December as the month gets closer, or our official holiday site for more.
December in New Orleans
What is the weather in December in New Orleans?
Unlike most places, New Orleans is the perfect place for parades, fireworks, and outdoor sporting events in December. While temperatures do drop, it rarely gets below freezing. With an average high of 64℉ and a low of 45℉ layers, scarves, and gloves are encouraged.
Where to Stay in New Orleans for the Holidays?
Hotels across the city deck their halls to enhance holiday cheer. Book a stay at The Roosevelt or Hotel Monteleone with winter wonderlands for lobbies. For a full list of our favorite hotel holiday decorations, click here.
Additionally, check out our Papa Noel Holiday Hotel Deals. Participating hotels offer low rates and special perks for guests. Book 2 or more nights at one of these stays during the month of December and receive a $50 holiday shopping credit to spend at local businesses participating in Holidays New Orleans Style.
Rebecca Todd
Broussard’s Traditional Reveillon Dinner
What foods should I try in December in New Orleans?
Réveillon
December in New Orleans means Réveillon dinners. Treat yourself to the prix-fixe menu at one of the legendary restaurants around the city. Pair it alongside one of these holiday craft cocktails for the perfect meal. With the colder weather, it is also the perfect time to try Cafe Brulot Diabolique, a special flaming twist on after-dinner coffee.
Are New Orleans Restaurants Open on Christmas Day?
Many restaurants throughout the city serve on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. As December gets closer, make sure to check our list of holiday openings.
What Other Events Are Happening in December in New Orleans?
Christmas Day in New Orleans is filled with national traditions with local twists. Caroling in Jackson Square and holiday tea parties throughout New Orleans’ French Quarter hotels are among the many other activities and events to look forward to. For all there is to do during the most wonderful time of year, check out our holiday site.
Looking for more things to do that aren’t all holiday-related? Browse the growing list of upcoming events below and our Top Things to Do in December as the month gets closer.
Yes — December brings mild weather, fewer crowds than Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest season, and a full calendar of holiday events like Celebration in the Oaks and Réveillon dinners. Averages stay in the 45–64°F range, making it comfortable for outdoor parades and festivals.
What is the weather like in New Orleans in December?
New Orleans stays mild in December, with an average high near 64°F and a low around 45°F. Layers, a light coat, and a scarf are usually enough — it rarely drops below freezing.
What are Réveillon dinners?
Réveillon is a French Christmas Eve feasting tradition that New Orleans restaurants carry on all December long with special prix-fixe menus. Dishes range from traditional Creole cuisine to modern international twists, often paired with holiday craft cocktails.
What is Celebration in the Oaks?
Celebration in the Oaks is New Orleans' signature holiday light display, held throughout December in City Park. The event lights up the park's historic oak trees and includes rides through Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the New Orleans Botanical Garden.
Is New Orleans open on Christmas Day?
Many restaurants and attractions close or run reduced hours on Christmas Day, though some hotels and select restaurants stay open for holiday diners. Check NewOrleans.com's list of restaurants open during the holidays before planning Christmas Day meals.
What should I pack for New Orleans in December?
Pack layers — a light jacket, scarf, and gloves cover most December days, since temperatures swing between a 45°F morning low and a 64°F afternoon high. Rain gear is also smart, as December can bring occasional showers.
What events happen in New Orleans on New Year's Eve?
New Orleans Eve at Woldenberg Park is the city's main free NYE concert and fireworks show, running from 9 p.m. to midnight with live music from acts like Sweet Crude and Dumpstaphunk. Bourbon Street also hosts its own balcony countdown celebration. More celebrations will be announced closer to the New Year.
Published by NewOrleans.com, the official visitors' guide to New Orleans.
Happening in December