December 2025
nola family DECEMBER 2025 Parent Fearlessly
Ring It In – Kids’ Style!
Unwrap Experiences
Your Holiday Hit–List
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@nolafamily.com
AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor AMANDA CIANI MADELINE PISTORIUS AMELIA ROESSLER JULIANNA STEEN Associate Editors
ART/PRODUCTION TOM GONZALES MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN MARTINE MELANCON KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations GAYLE GAUTHREAUX Director Of Accounting ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator BREE WRAY Website & Digital Content Strategist MORGAN ESPENAN Digital Content Coordinator SARAH MILLER Client Success Manager CONTACT US: editorial@ frg.inc CORPORATE OFFICE: 3636 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Ste. 540 Baton Rouge, LA 70816 (504) 866-0555 NOVEMBER 2025 • ISSUE 175
Photos by freepik.com
THE GREAT CHRISTMAS TREE DEBATE There’s a conversation every Christmas season about the “correct” time to put up and take down one’s Christmas tree. Are there exact dates to this debate? Does Louisiana have its own, specific take?
END OF SEMESTER BLUES It’s the end of the semester, or quarter, for your kids. That means exams, final reviews, and a whole lot of studying. Discover healthy and beneficial ways students can prepare for exam season this year, and how you can provide extra support. Whether you’re donating to local charities and distribution centers or volunteering within your community, take a moment to share a little kindness this month with the help of these resources. After all, it’s the season of giving. IT’S THE SEASON OF GIVING
THRIVING FOODS OF THE MONTH
Fruits and vegetables flourish in different seasons of the year and give us the nutrients we need based on our specific climates. Discover what foods are thriving this month in Louisiana and how exactly they benefit our health.
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nola family CONTENTS DECEMBER 2025
14
FEATURES
20 Gift an Experience this Christmas
24 Starting the New Year Fresh
26 Sparkly Geaux Guide
16 Ring in the New Year with Your Kids
IN EACH ISSUE
From the Publisher 8
From the Bookshelf 10
Spotlight 12
Mom About Town 14
Out and About 31
Things We Love 36
Snapshots 38
NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. Some content in this magazine was created with assistance from AI tools and has been reviewed and edited by our human editorial team. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.
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from the publisher
don’t flatten our bank account, but these lists? Cray- cray. My daughter’s entire wish list is over $150 per item. My son wants a new phone, an iPad, and…a dog. The third kid hasn’t submitted his list yet, which honestly feels ominous. It’ll likely be something sports-related or a jersey that’s been “totally neces- sary” since last Tuesday. And then — the elves. Whoever thought it was a great idea to give each of my children their own elf should probably come help manage the situation. Every December 1st, Snowflake, Chippy, and Snowman show up unan - nounced, ready to cause 24 days of mischief. I do love watching the kids hunt for them each morning, though. Last year they couldn’t find them on several occasions, and I’m not saying the elves were tired… but the elves were tired. Some traditions hold steady, though. Christmas Eve is always spent with my father-in-law’s family. When we get home, the kids each open their one present— the same one every year: matching pajamas. We take our annual photo, put out cookies, carrots, and milk, and wrap the hallway door in wrapping paper so no one can sneak out early to inspect Santa’s work. What’s funny is that two of my three kids are not morning people—except, apparently, on Christmas. By sunrise, our phones are blowing up with anxious kids ready to burst through the paper barrier like they’re in a holiday-themed action movie. Christmas with teens may be louder, pricier, and slightly more chaotic…but it’s still magical. Just a different kind of magic—the kind wrapped in glitter, tech accessories, and the lingering hope that this might be the year nobody asks for a puppy. Merry Christmas and Happy New Years,
December arrives like a glitter-covered tornado— busy, chaotic, sparkly, and very merry. I love this month so much that I even let my daughter start decorating before Thanksgiving this year. Normally I’m a strict “Saturday-after-Thanksgiving” decorator. That sacred window gives us time for our annual Black Friday shopping trip with my sister and daugh- ter—and gives the boys one last day of peace before basketball season and holiday chaos take over. Christmas looks different as the kids get older. Their wants and needs have blended into one very expen- sive category, and apparently everything is now “a need.” All year I preach about wants vs. needs…and then December arrives and suddenly they “need” AirPods, shoes that cost more than my first car pay - ment, and gadgets that require user manuals the size of novels. I squirrel away a little each month so the holidays The Teen Christmas Shift
Amy L. Foreman Publisher
Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you'd like to see in future issues.
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Looking for some wintery books to get into the holiday spirit? Check out these festive reads from the New Orleans Public Library.
from the bookshelf
CHILDREN Dinosaur-loving kids will go nuts for Bridget Heos’ Santa Claws . This fun picture book brings readers back to the Cretaceous Period, where Santa is a T. rex traveling the world by pterosaurs-pulled sled to bring little dinos gifts and spread holiday cheer. Once upon a Kwanzaa by Nyasha Williams is a vibrant introduction to the traditions of Kwanzaa, highlighting ancestral practices across the Black Diaspora. Weiwei’s Winter Solstice: A Dōngzhì Story by Michelle Jing Chan teaches children the customs and traditions of an important Chinese holiday. With beautiful illustrations bursting with color, this tender tale will warm even the darkest days of winter. MIDDLE GRADE What would you think if you saw a reindeer fly? When this happens to Virginia in Bobby Podesta’s North for the Winter , she isn’t sure what to do. When she reluctantly confesses what she saw to her neighbor, Benny, he’s convinced that flying reindeer can only mean one thing:
this is Santa business. Packed with more than 300 cheery, family-friendly, and sometimes groan producing jokes, Jingle Bell Jokes for Funny Kids by Gary Panton is a great way to bring cheer into your home this holiday season. Spread seasonal cheer with Pokémon Happy Holidays , a colorful activity book full of puzzles, games, and festive fun featuring Pikachu and friends. TEENS Narrated from different viewpoints, Tia and Quincy grapple with the aftermath of their recent breakups in Only for the Holidays by Abiola Bello. The two strike a deal: Tia agrees to accompany Quincy to the winter ball as his date in return for his help in winning back her ex. But, as their plan progresses so do their feelings for each other. For the Rest of Us: 13 Festive Holiday Stories to Celebrate all Seasons showcases the beautiful and diverse ways holidays are observed. From Lunar New Year to Solstice, Día de Los Muertos to Juneteenth, and all the incredible days in between, it’s clear that Americans
don’t just have one holiday. Edited by the esteemed Dahlia Adler, this joyful collection of stories shows that there isn’t one way to experience a holiday. Manga fans can join Sanda and Shiori on an unforgettable journey to restore the magic of Christmas in Sanda: Volume 1 by Paru Itagaki. Along the way, they confront the true meaning of friendship, trust, and the possibility of magic in a world that has all but forgotten it . E-RESOURCE SPOTLIGHT Looking to level up your crafting game this holiday season? Your New Orleans Public Library card unlocks unlimited access to Creativebug, an online catalog of thousands of video tutorials, featuring seasonal crafting tips of all kinds — from festive treats to tying the perfect bow. Expert instructors provide step-by-step guides, making it easy to learn new skills and get inspired. Perfect for crafters of all levels, Creativebug offers endless creative possibilities at no cost with your Library card.
Kacy Helwick is the youth collection development librarian for the New Orleans Public Library’s collections and acquisitions department. Marie Simoneaux is the media and communications coordinator for the New Orleans Public Library.
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Mother-Daughter Duo Raising Awareness:
jewelry business. “Bella made the SLU soccer and basketball teams bracelets. I remember at one point, Coach Alya, the basketball coach, had all of the girls in a circle to inspire them and tell them Bella’s story, and it just clicked,” Robin says. “Like, wow. This is inspiring these older people.” “Your Style, Your Impact.” “You can get through anything. Like, this kid’s doing it. You can do it. No matter what you’re faced with, what adversity you were faced with, you can do anything. And so, somehow, the branding just works. The goal is to bring awareness.” Reflecting on that moment, she shares the purpose behind their motto, Holding on to Faith & Inspiring Others From speaking to crowds on stages in New York City to visiting college students at philanthropic events, Bella’s passion and eagerness to share her story is shown through her confidence. “It makes me proud of myself,” Bella says, “I always want to keep doing more things, you know?” For anyone that might be going through something like Bella, her message to them is this: “Never lose confidence, and never give up.” What helped Robin through her daughter’s initial diagnosis? “My faith,” Robin recalls. “I shouldn’t have seen that article. It was totally random. I repeated [to myself], over and over, God’s plans for her are good, and he loves her more than I ever could. I would not have been able to get through it without that.” What’s Next? For Robin and Bella, this is only the beginning of the plans they have ahead. The duo already has lists of custom orders, a website to keep stocked, and events lined up to attend. Next on their to-do list is a children’s book about the business, Bella’s story, and to ultimately bring awareness. Bella hasn’t let her life go down a path of letting cancer get in the way. She’s chosen to overcome her obstacles and embrace the challenges by rising above and becoming an advocate through perseverance and personal virtue.
spotlight
BRAVE BELLA BEAD CO.
BY MADELINE PISTORIUS
diagnosis. Now, Bella spends her time doing the things she loves: playing soccer, spending time with her family and friends, and designing bracelets. “Making bracelets is my favorite thing to do, I can do it all day and I never get bored,” Bella says. At 13 years old, Bella has her own jewelry brand called Brave Bella Bead Co. that she runs alongside her mother. The company initially started as a way for Bella to raise money for braces by simply doing a hobby she loved. “Thinking about it then, I never expected it to be how it is now. A week after I got my braces and it started taking off, we thought, okay, what do we do now?” Bella reflects, looking back on the journey after local retailers in their hometown of Hammond, Louisiana, began reaching out to sell her bracelets in their stores. “We decided—Let’s donate a portion of our sales to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and we could actually step it up and make this into an actual business and LLC.” Bringing Awareness The mother-daughter duo realized that what they were doing was more than a
12 DECEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM What Started as a Hobby It’s been 11 years since Bella’s cancer Within two weeks, Bella was admitted to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, where she was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer that occurs in children. Three days later, her eye was removed and eventually, a prosthetic took its place. Robin Cervantes was scrolling through Facebook on a Friday night when an article caught her attention. A young girl in Australia was diagnosed with a rare eye cancer after her mother noticed a white glint in one of the child’s eyes. Robin’s heart sank. Just like the article photos showed, Robin realized that when she took photos of her two-year- old daughter, Bella, one of her eyes glowed white against the flash of light instead of red. The next morning, Robin held a finger in front of Bella’s right eye and observed no reaction. Bella was half-blind. A few hours later, they were at the ER in North Oaks Hospital, where an ultrasound showed tumors all throughout the inside of Bella’s right eye.
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mom about town
JESSICA MACALUSO O’CONNOR
Occupation : Owner of Shop Dolce Boutique Husband: Matthew O’Connor Children: Mckenzie, 7, and Grayson, 6 Hobbies: Taking bike rides, going out to dinner, and hosting parties.
BY MADELINE PISTORIUS
14 DECEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM passion and love for making people feel good about themselves. I found my niche in more of an affordable fashion way—a make you look a million bucks, but not going to cost you a million bucks kind of J essica Macaluso O’Connor is the heart behind Shop Dolce Boutique, where attainable style and everyday confidence go hand in hand. A wife, mother of two, and lover of all things fun and community-centered, she believes life’s too short to not do amazing things. Whether she’s greeting beloved customers, hosting friends, hitting an early-morning workout, or spending time with her little ones, Jessica brings joy, authenticity, and grace wherever she goes. Her mantra? Look good, feel good, and love the life you’re in. What led you to opening your own boutique? JESSICA: I grew up working for a boutique both here in Metairie and then in Baton Rouge, and I really grew my
make a point to do yearly, to take time out of work and whatnot to just make memories together. A skill that you’re proud of having? JESSICA: A skill you develop over time as a mother is being able to multitask between being a mom, being a wife, being a daughter, being a business owner, and just being able to wear so many hats and changing them all day long. I think that alone is something to be said for. What fills your cup when it’s running low? JESSICA: Honestly, being with my other mom friends, or chatting with other mom- business owners because it’s people I can relate to, lean on when I need a little oomph, and bounce ideas off of. We’re able to chitchat about what’s going on because we are in similar points of life. It makes me remember everyone’s in this
thing. But really, just honing in on making people feel good about themselves. What’s a piece of advice for other moms who want to start a business? JESSICA: I think for a mom who is going to open their own business, they really should stick to their why they want to do it and give it their all, 100 percent, because later, it’ll come back to them as a way of having more freedom to spend time with their families, and then they are able to be a mom and a businesswoman. Favorite mom moment of this year? JESSICA: My husband and I took the kids to New York a couple months ago. I felt like it was just a special time for us because most travel [we do] is traveling for work or just running here and there with other families. It was something good for us and something that we’ll now
same boat in some fashion. It reenergizes me and pushes me to move forward. If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? JESSICA: Don’t take life too seriously and just be yourself. I always wish I could go to a high school and stand in front of 2,000 girls and say “Guys, it really doesn’t matter.” There are so many opportunities to find where you belong. In 20 years, they’re going to look back and be like, “Man, why did I care so much about what blah blah thought?” Or, “Why did I do this or that?” Life can be short, it can be gone in the blink of an eye, and I think just cherish what you have and don’t take life too seriously. Are there any habits you have that keep a balance in your daily life? JESSICA: I work out in the mornings at 5 a.m. so that I get my day started early and I’m good about putting time aside for me, whether it’s going to lunch with my friends or going to the spa so that when I have to come to work the next day, I’m able to help make people feel good because I feel good about myself. I also
Quick Q’s: My go-to accessory is… the statement necklace (that my employee, Molly, hates). Current fashion obsession… fur jackets. Can’t have enough of them. Three words to describe Dolce… friendly, loud, welcoming. Something that’s always in my purse is… at least, like, five lipsticks. Favorite place to relax… the patio at Junior’s for a glass of sparkling rose. and making people feel special while also trusting in and investing in your employees creates a foundation. My family wouldn’t be what it is without my team. We are a family, and they have helped raise my kids with me. It’s just become a whole family business. It’s been a journey, but it is so beyond rewarding, and it also teaches my kids a lot.
try to make it a point to leave work in time to pick up my kids from carpool [line], which helps me feel connected with them at home, where I can actually be a part of their schoolwork and not have to run into the house at 7 o’clock [and pick up where things are left off]. They grow up in the blink of an eye, so just squeeze them as tight as you can. Time is important. How do you keep a sense of “you” in everything you do? JESSICA: Between the shop and me momming, I just do it to my realest self. It’s not perfect, so I feel like it truly is me. Dolce is so much of who I am, there’s no front to it. Within it and outside of it, it’s just me being me. We’ve made so many connections through my business that it overflows into my mom life and the people I am surrounded by. What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about running a business? JESSICA: Before you start a business, you think you open and immediately take off. But really, it’s through building consistency and great employees and a great support system over time to make you successful. Staying consistent
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Ringing in the with Kids New Year
BY AMANDA CIANI
16 DECEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM Having little ones means weighing the pros and cons of letting them stay up til the NYE ball drops at midnight. Doing so could potentially throw off sleep schedules and result in grumpy kiddos D ecember is full of fabulous family fun all month long, with one big celebration even falling on the very last day of the month. New Year’s Eve is a terrific time to gather with friends and family to reflect on 2025 while also looking forward to 2026 with hope and optimism. Whether celebrating earlier in the day or enjoying the time together down to the very last second, make a plan to commemorate the start of a brand new year full of opportunity and memory making together. Celebrating Early
for several days (which is not an ideal way to start the new year). Consider what makes NYE so alluring in the first palce—the anticipation, build-up and of course, the countdown. Good news! Young ones can experience all of the feelings of NYE excitement earlier in the day. Many establishments like libraries, trampoline parks and indoor play places throw “noon years” celebrations where kids can countdown to when the clock strikes noon! Can’t make it to a noon year’s party out and about? Consider throwing a little countdown-style party at home. Add in special touches like party hats, a special sparkling cider toast and sparklers to really set the vibe. As for the “10…9…8…” countdown, a quick search
online for “Kid’s New Year’s Countdowns” shows tons of options, many of which feature popular kid’s characters, too. Kids don’t care if it’s kept simple, and a noon year’s style party at home is all of the fun, and none of the sleep deprivation, making it the perfect option for parents with younger kids. Party like it’s 2026! Some families love to be the hosts with the most, and having a NYE party can be a great way to cap a successful 2025. A little planning goes a long way; and having the most fun doesn’t have to cost the most money, either. Here are some budget-friendly tips on hosting a NYE party. Set the Ambiance. Glitz and glamor
is a great way to start a new year. Hit up the local dollar store and buy some inexpensive silver and gold gear like table covers, plates, napkins, balloons, streamers, etc. Kids may enjoy wearing glow bracelets and necklaces, too! Grab a poster board- party guests can sign it and share their resolutions. Set the Table. Variety is the spice of life! And with New Year’s Eve parties falling during non-meal times, serving a spread of snack-style foods is sure to be a big hit. Some ideas include: dips, veggies, fruits, finger sandwiches, meatballs, pigs in a blanket, deviled eggs, flatbread pizza, mini cupcakes, a sundae bar, etc. Be sure to have some vegetarian and gluten-free options, so everyone can get their snack on. Have a tight budget? Ask friends and family to bring their favorite snack, or drink, to share. Set an Itinerary. Socializing is a big part of having a party, but having a few little activities planned throughout the night can help make any adult gathering even more exciting. Using what is readily available within the home is a smart way to save money. Depending on the party guest’s interests, some fun ideas for activities include karaoke, minute- to-win-it type challenges, board or card games, etc. Having a variety of simple kid’s activities set up may also help keep littles busy, too. Examples include: LEGO building, creating beaded bracelets, coloring pages, video games, sensory bins, makeovers with temporary tattoos and hair color spray and more! Whether counting down early or late, with immediate family or a big group, New Year’s Eve is a great time to put the spotlight on spending time with those who matter most. Take time to reflect on everyone’s accomplishments made during the past twelve months while also resolving to put our collective best feet forward, to be our best selves, in the next year, too! Have a safe and wonderful last day of 2025. Nola Family Magazine looks forward to spending another year with you and the rest of our wonderful community in 2026! Cheers!
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Gift an Experience this Christmas
Art Market. Experience Gifts for Kids
As a kid, the most wondrous things are often the most simple (and sometimes, the most hands-on). It doesn’t have to be some elaborate, expensive shindig—as long as it’s personalized to them, they’ll eat up the chance to spend special time with you doing something they love! Focus on imagination, learning, and fun: Animal Encounters – If they’re an animal lover, treat them to a behind-the-scenes zoo tour or horseback riding lessons at a local stable like Equest Farm or Cascade Stables. • Play Passes – Storyland, Luv 2 Play, Sky Zone, and Create & Play Club, to name a few. • Subscriptions – Extend Christmas by purchasing a monthly or quarterly subscription to craft kits, science boxes, or even kid-friendly cooking sets. • One-on-One “Day with Mom/Dad” Certificates – Pick a day to spend just the two of you and let them choose an activity, lunch, and outing together. • Movie Night – Whether you actually buy movie tickets to a movie they want to go see or you plan to do an at-home movie night, print off “tickets” and jazz it up with Teens can be so hard to shop for—they have their own unique sense of style you often don’t exactly understand, their interests are ever-fluctuating, and they don’t want toys anymore. Not to mention how when you try to have a conversation, they offer one-word answers. Use these experiences as opportunities to bond with them despite their teen moodiness. • Concert Tickets – Check performing schedules for the Saenger Theatre, Fillmore, House of Blues, Orpheum popcorn and themed PJs. Experience Gifts for Teens Theater, Caesars Superdome, and Smoothie King Center to see who’s touring in Nola. • Spa or Self-Care Day – Take “Fancy Nancy’s Spa Day” and upgrade it to teen edition with a mani/pedi, facial, or yoga class. • Sports Tickets – Pick their favorite sport and snag tickets to a game: the Saints, Pelicans, the Tulane Green Wave, New Orleans Jesters, or the LSU Tigers. • Adventure Experiences – Help them get their angst out with an escape room, axe- throwing, go-karting, or a climbing gym like New Orleans Boulder Lounge. • Photography Class or Music Lessons – Something to nurture their creativity. • Theatre Productions – Whether it’s to a new show or their favorite Broadway
BY JULIANNA STEEN
20 DECEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM So basically, whatever your peoples’ love language may be, chances are, you’ll strike it rich if you give them an experience instead of a physical gift. In fact, a recent GetYourGuide survey discovered that 92 percent of Americans L et’s face it: Finding the “perfect” gift to give your kids, spouse, or grandbabies for Christmas goes one of two ways—you immediately have an inspired, brilliant idea… or you have no clue what to get them. Not to mention the adult kids who claim they “don’t need anything”—like, how is that helpful?! Because you can’t not get them anything. Herein lies the Christmas gift hunting dilemma. Instead of scrolling on Amazon into the wee hours of the night trying desperately to find an innovative, meaningful gift, consider gifting an experience this Christmas. Why You Should Gift an Experience Making memories is what Christmas is all about—after all, can you name three things off the top of your head that you received for Christmas last year? Now tell me three holiday activities you participated in, whether it was decorating gingerbread houses or attending a holiday concert. While you may struggle to remember last Christmas in general, there’s a good chance that you can recall special moments over material goods. An experience often combines nearly all of the love languages into one: You receive a gift that allows you to spend quality time with someone you love, which often leads to hugs and kisses (physical touch) and encouraging, affirming words.
would prefer to receive experiences over physical gifts for Christmas. The key is intentionality. Before trying to scour the internet for inspiration, take a few minutes to jot down things you know they love: music, painting, sports, a band, reading, traveling, cooking, and more. Then use what you know to help you come up with something you would enjoy doing together. Here’s a list to get you started: Experience Gift Ideas for Families I have a friend who gifted her son and grandson with season passes to the zoo years ago, and they still talk about how much fun they had going to see the animals all year long. Whether it’s one- time fun or a season pass, New Orleans is brimming with sports teams, museums, parks, art studios, and more that make for special activities perfect for families of all ages and preferences. • Zoo or Museum Memberships – A year-long pass to the Audubon Zoo or Audubon Aquarium means unlimited animal adventures. Or go big with membership to the National WWII Museum, one of the best in the country, or Louisiana Children’s Museum. • Workshops or Classes – Allow the whole fam to embrace their creative side with pottery painting, cooking classes, dance lessons, art classes (Earth & Fire Pottery Studio, Posh Paint Pottery, NOAFA). • Local Adventures – Spend a day exploring City Park, take a streetcar ride through the Garden District, or plan a “tourist in your own city” day with beignets, jazz, a Mardi Gras World tour, or strolling through the Frenchmen
production, you won’t regret taking them to a performance.
There are many effective ways to reduce stuttering. Doing nothing is not one of them.
Experience Gifts for Adults Adults need to have fun too!
Whether it’s an experience you “book” or a sort of choose-your-own-adventure, your parents, spouse, and friends will love the thought and effort it took for you to give them a memory-making experience. Date Nights or Dining Experiences – Why not make your gift revolve around food? Try your hand at cooking classes, wine tastings, or a progressive dinner of your own making (or ordering). Try cooking classes at the New Orleans School of Cooking or Langlois Culinary Crossroads. Wellness Packages – My parents have given each other a couples massage for years, but you could also buy facials, fitness classes, hydrotherapy or sauna sessions. • Subscription Boxes – Coffee tastings, books, dinner made easier, and shopping; all gifts that bring small “experiences” home—literally. (Atlas Coffee Club, Book of the Month, Hello Fresh, Fab Fit Fun, Nuuly) Classical Music – Give the gift of music that moves the soul (Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, New Orleans Opera Festival). Creative Ways to “Wrap” an Experience “But how do you wrap an experience?” you might be wondering. There are plenty of creative ways to surprise your people with their experience. Print tickets or membership cards and wrap them with something small that relates (zoo tickets + a stuffed animal, pottery class + a small paintbrush, sports ticket + sports ball). You can also create a homemade invitation to the experience, a photo collage, or a “coupon book” of experience ideas for family members to choose from. Let your creativity loose, and have fun with it! Experience the Magic of Memories That Last Whether you consider yourself a wonderful gift-giver or you dread picking out Christmas presents every year, giving experiences to those you care about will not only elevate your gift-giving, but it will lead to special, unforgettable moments and memories you’ll both cherish. New Orleans has hundreds of possibilities for a magical experience—just figure out which works best for each person and go for it! They’ll be sure to thank you when the wrapping paper is trashed and they still have something to look forward to.
www.StutteringHelp.org THE S TUTTERING F OUNDATION A Nonprofit Organization Since 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter ®
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STARTING THE NEW YEAR FRESH
BY MADELINE PISTORIUS
24 DECEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM A home refresh won’t happen overnight. The holiday season is in full swing, and your mind is probably a jumbled mess filled with year-end chaos. Take tasks step F or many people, January 1st is an opportunity to reset. Some journal and reflect on their past year, while others make lists of resolutions to work towards in the year ahead. While these actions add value and meaning, there’s a necessary step in preparing for the year ahead: resetting your home. By taking the time to freshen your home, you’ll enter the new year organized, motivated, and ready for success. As self-help author W. Clement Stone suggests, “Analyze your life in terms of its environment. Are there things around you helping you toward success—or are they holding you back?” This logic applies to your home. When your space supports your success, the day-to-day becomes easier, and long-term goals tend to be closer in reach. Create a Checklist
by step. Grab a pen and paper and go room to room in your house, jotting down any major areas that need attention. Once you have an idea of what you’d like to focus on, create a schedule. Like I said—it’s not going to happen overnight! Realistically schedule what you want to focus on each day of your home refresh. It might be easier to focus on certain rooms at a time for some, or to take it task by task for others. It can take days or weeks depending on how you plan. There is no right or wrong system! Declutter and Donate An entire year is coming to an end, which means toys and clothes are outgrown, items are expired, and clutter is piling up. Sort through your kids’ belongings. Put aside the clothes they no longer need and the toys sitting in the back of the closet. Deliver these items to local donation centers, or distribute them to friends and family members—some might want hand-me-downs!
Take a moment to look through your personal belongings. Is there clothing you haven’t reached for in over six months, or shoes gathering dust since 2022? The same goes for items throughout your house, like kitchenware and technology. Getting rid of items that no longer serve you makes room for a Throw away items like old receipts, mismatched socks, dried-out pens, unnecessary mail, and old grocery lists. Sift through medicine cabinets and hygienic products and empty items that are past usage date or empty. Ask your kiddos for help by tossing old coloring sheets and dried Play-Doh. Tackle your kitchen by clearing out food in the back of the fridge, old condiments, and expired pantry snacks. After ridding your house of clutter, you’ll start to feel a weight lifting off of your shoulders. new start in the new year. Purge and Refresh
Deep Clean and Detox Hang in there for this next step!
Giving your home a deep clean lays the foundation for fresh beginnings. Sweep, mop, vacuum, dust—all of that good stuff. Most importantly, focus on the areas that probably don’t get as much attention. I’m talking about floor boards, ceiling fans, appliances, air filters, nooks, crannies, and everything in between. Do your linens need washing or couch cushions need flipping? Open some windows and let in some cool, fresh air! Incorporate some lively energy to the process. Turn on some entertaining tunes, light a delicious candle, and turn it into a family affair. It’s a new year for everyone, so ask your kiddos a similar question as Stone asks: Is the state of your bedroom going to inspire you this year? rearranging. It doesn’t have to be anything major—simple restructuring can leave a lasting effect. Switch around your living room furniture, update the photos in your frames, change the layout of decor, and switch out textiles and artwork. Add fresh flowers, new plants, and a candle you have yet to burn. Reorganize and Reinvent Sometimes, a clean slate requires Sort and label items in places like your pantry, workspaces, and children’s closets. Refold your clothes and linens, and make your bed up. A slight change in organization and visual aesthetics will not only make your life easier, but your living space more functional and less chaotic. A Sigh of Relief No matter if this refresh took you one weekend or three weeks, take in the progress you’ve made and let out a sigh of relief. Notice the difference in the air, the ambiance, and the overall feel and function of your household.Whether you make big changes or small progresses, improving your living space in preparation for the new year is just what it takes to step into the new year fresh.
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SPARKLY GEAUX GUIDE BY MADELINE PISTORIUS
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! From parades to festivals, brunches to teas, markets to live shows, and Santa sightings throughout it all, there’s over 40 New Orleans opportunities with plenty of holiday cheer to go around.
Walking in a Winter Wonderland Krampus Parade December 6. 7:30 p.m. New Orleans/Bywater kreweofkrampus.com/ krampus-nolauf-parade Manning Family Children’s Holiday Parad e December 6. 11 a.m. The French Market through Downtown nolaholidayparade.com Merry & BRIGHT! Algiers Bonfire & Concert December 6. 4–8:30 p.m. 200 Morgan St. algierseconomic.com/ algiersbonfire Celebration in the Oaks November 28–January 1. City Park celebrationintheoaks.com Christmas Eve Bonfires on the Levee December 24. St. James Parish. explorelouisiana.com
26 DECEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM Heritage Park in Rivertown kenner.la.us/486/Kenners- Magical-Christmas-Village NOLA ChristmasFest December 20–29. New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center nolachristmasfest.com Patio Planters Holiday Home Tour December 21. Noon to 4 p.m. French Quarter patioplanters.net/events/ holiday-home-tour All Things ‘Tis the Season Caroling in Jackson Square December 21. 7–8 p.m. Jackson Square patioplanters.net/events/ caroling-in-jackson-square Christmas at Jackson Barracks December 6 & 7. 5–9:30 p.m. Jackson Barracks (6541 St. Claude Ave) jbchristmas.com Christmas in Covington December 13. 4–6:30 p.m. Covington Trailhead Museum and Visitors Center visitthenorthshore.com/event/ christmas-in-covington/8742 Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village November 30–December 31. 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Greenway Plaza on the Lafitte Greenway lafittegreenway.org/event/ supernova Eat, Drink, and Be Merry Christmas at The Cannery - Brunch with Santa & Friends December 14. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Cannery, 3803 Toulouse St. cannerynola.com/calendar Christmas Brunch at the Roosevelt December 25 The Roosevelt Hotel New Orleans sevenrooms.com Jazz Brunch with Santa December 19 & 22–23. Fri.: 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Mon. & Tues.: 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. The Court of Two Sisters courtoftwosisters.com New Orleans SantaCon Bar Crawl December 13. 1 p.m. pubcrawls.com/new-orleans-
santacon-crawl Papa Noel Tea December 6–30. 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Ritz-Carlton
Christmas in Lafreniere Park December 1–30. Sun–Thurs: 5:30–9 p.m. Fri–Sat: 5:30–10 p.m. Lafreniere Park lafrenierepark.org/christmas Greenway Supernova December 11–13. 8–5 p.m.
event.marriott.com Riverfront Reveillon: A Taste of 1940s New Orleans December 5. 6 p.m.
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28 DECEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM Holidays in Gilded Age Style Nov. 29–Jan. 3. 11–11:30 a.m. HNOC hnoc.org/events/organ-demos Holiday Spectacular December 18. 7:30–9:30 p.m. Orpheum Theater lpomusic.com/events/ sp40-orph-dec18 Mannheim Steamroller Christmas December 28. 7:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre saengernola.com/events/ mannheim-steamroller Classical Christmas: Messiah December 5. 7:30–9:30 p.m. Orpheum Theater lpomusic.com/events/ sp30-orph-dec04 Delta Festival Ballet: The Nutcracker December 20 & 21. 6 p.m. & 2 p.m. Mahalia Jackson Theater mahaliajacksontheater.com/ events/delta-nutcracker Lupin Hall, NOCCA (2800 Chartres Street) eventbrite.com Santa Champagne Stroll December 6. 5–8 p.m. Magazine Street magazinestreet.com/event/ champagne-holiday-stroll 10 a.m. to Noon & 2–4 p.m. BB’s Stage Door Canteen nationalww2museum.org/ programs/teddy-bear-tea Teddy Bear Tea Weekends on Nov. 30–Dec. 21, Dec. 22–24 & Dec. 27. The Roosevelt showclix.com/event/tbt25 Joy to the World Teddy Bear Tea December 6–21.
New Orleans Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker December 13–23. Multiple showtimes. Orpheum Theater neworleansballettheatre.com Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet December 26. Multiple showtimes. December 5–14. 2:00 & 7:30 p.m. Jefferson Performing Arts Center jeffersonpac.com St. Louis Cathedral Concert December 21. 5:30–6:30 p.m. St. Louis Cathedral stlouiscathedral.org/events-news The Muppet Christmas Carol December 12. 7:30–9:30 p.m. Mahalia Jackson Theater lpomusic.com/events/sp30- orph-dec04-cpmn8 Saenger Theatre nutcracker.com Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer
Santa Photos December 5–24 Oakwood Center oakwoodcenter.com/en/ events/21524 Selfies with Santa December 6. Noon to 3 p.m. Canal Place neworleans.com/event/selfies- with-santa/175948 Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas A Candy Cane Celebration December 14. 10 a.m. to Noon & 1–3 p.m. Destrehan Plantation destrehanplantation.org/events/ a-candy-cane-celebration Beignets with Santa Every Saturday & Sunday. 10 a.m. to Noon. 2 Canal Street missrivernola.com/event/santa Build Your Own Gingerbread House event.marriott.com GameOn Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus December 13. 9–10:30 a.m. 2421 Veterans Memorial Blvd. gameonsocialhub.com/breakfast- with-santa Santa’s Pajama Party at Restaurant R’evolution Every Saturday & Sunday. 9:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. The Royal Sonesta eventbrite.com School’s Out Camp: Winter Edition Dec. 22–24 & Dec. 29–Jan. 2. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Longue Vue longuevue.com December 6–21. Noon to 5 p.m. Ritz-Carlton
Deck the Halls Deutsches Haus Christkindlmarkt December 5–7 Deutsches Haus
deutscheshaus.org/market Longue Vue’s Merry Market December 7. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Longue Vue longuevue.com/event/ merry-market Lights, Camera, Santa! Santa Photos Gentilly Santa gentillysanta.com Santa Photos Nov. 22–Dec. 24 Lakeside Shopping Center lakesideshopping.com/ santa-photos
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30 DECEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM
DECEMBER 2025
out & about
1
Manning Family Children’s Christmas Parade The 4th annual world-class holiday parade brings 30 themed floats, dancing groups, marching bands, giant helium balloons, and endless festive cheer to kick off the festive season. Dec. 6. nolaholidayparade.com
2
The Winter Lantern Festival Step into a glowing wonderland of handmade Chinese lanterns illuminating the night with whimsical holiday designs, as well as live performances, tasty treats, and endless family fun. Nov. 14– Jan. 4. winterlanternfestival.com/westwego
3
Exotic Animal Races & Family Day Fair Grounds Race Course welcomes the whole family to experience a wild afternoon of unforgettable moments: cheering on ostriches, camels, and zonkeys– yes, zonkeys–as they dash down the track in this one-of-a-kind race. Dec. 6. fairgroundsracecourse.com
4
ChristmasFest Glide across an ice rink, hop on carnival rides, wander through a lifesize gingerbread house, and soak up dazzling lights and live entertainment for a limited-time only. Dec. 20–29. nolachristmasfest.com
5
Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas Join Nancy at Rivertown Theaters as she prepares for the most fabulous Christmas ever, with sparkles, songs, and plenty of laughter along the way. This colorful musical adaptation of the beloved children’s book is a holiday treat for the whole family. Dec. 5–14. rivertowntheaters.com
Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information. HEADS UP!
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$59–99. bethelwoodscenter. org/events The Winter Lantern Festival Through Jan. 4 at Bayou Segnette State Park. Thursdays–Sundays, 5–10 p.m. $18+. winterlanternfestival.com 05 FRIDAY Classical Christmas: Messiah Orpheum Theater.
7:30–9:30 p.m. $35+. lpomusic.com/events
Deutsches Haus Christkindlmarkt
Through Dec. 7 at Deutsches Haus. Fri.: 3–8 p.m. Sat.: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sun.: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free. deutscheshaus. org/market Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas Through Dec. 14 at Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts. $20. rivertowntheaters.com It’s a Wonderful Life Y’all Through Dec. 21 at Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts. $43–57. rivertowntheaters.com Riverfront Reveillon: A Taste of 1940s New Orleans Lupin Hall, NOCCA (2800 Chartres St.). 6 p.m. $150. eventbrite.com Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Through Dec. 14 at Jefferson Performing Arts Center. 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $38.75–88.75. jeffersonpac.com/events 06 SATURDAY Algiers Bonfire & Concert Algiers Batture. 4–8:30 p.m. Free. algierseconomic.com/
Holidays at Audubon See December 1.
01 MONDAY
04 THURSDAY Crescent City Farmers Market Weekly at Lafitte Greenway (500 N Norman C Francis Pkwy.). 3–6 p.m. crescentcityfarmersmarket.org Effective Communication with Children and Teens (4-18 years) The Parenting Center, Manning Family Children’s Hospital. 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free. manningchildrens.org/ services/the-parenting-center/ Infant and Child CPR (0-8 years) Worley Hall, Manning Family Children’s Hospital. 6:30–8:30 p.m. $35. manningchildrens.org/ services/the-parenting-center Pelicans vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Smoothie King Center. 7 p.m. $18+. smoothiekingcenter.com Preservation Hall Jazz Band: A Creole Christmas The Museum at Bethel Woods. 7:30 p.m.
Weekly at The Batture (25 Walnut St.). 8 a.m. to Noon. crescentcityfarmersmarket.org Pelicans vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Smoothie King Center. 7 p.m. $22+. smoothiekingcenter.com 03 WEDNESDAY Craft Happy Hour Edible Masterpieces: Watercolor Cookie Art Ogden Museum of Southern Art. 6–8 p.m. $35–40. ogdenmuseum.org/event The International Workboat Show Through Dec. 5 at Morial Convention Center. $25-50. workboatshow.com WYES Afternoon Tea: Celebrating 250 Years of Jane Austen WYES-TV (916 Navarre Ave.).
Celebration in the Oaks Through Jan. 1 at New Orleans City Park. $25+. celebrationintheoaks.com Christmas at Lafreniere Park Through Dec. 31 at Lafreniere Park. 5:30 p.m. $10-15. visitjeffersonparish. com/events Holidays at Audubon Through Jan. 4 at Audubon Aquarium & Zoo. audubonnatureinstitute.org/ holidays Holidays in Gilded Age Style Through Jan. 3 at HNOC. 11– 11:30 a.m. Free with museum admission. hnoc.org/events/ organ-demos Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village Through Dec. 31 at Heritage Park. 5:30–8:30 p.m. Free. kenner.la.us 02 TUESDAY Crescent City Farmers Market
2–5 p.m. $100+. wyes.org/events
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nolaholidayparade.com Santa’s Champagne Stroll Between Henry Clay and Felicity St. 5–8 p.m. Free. magazinestreet.com/event Santa in the Sand Coconut Beach, Kenner. 11 a.m. $50. https://www. tknvball.com/santa25 07 SUNDAY Brady’s Wine Holiday Cheers 300–600 Julia St. 5–9 p.m. artsdistrictneworleans.com/ events Crescent City Farmers Market Weekly at City Putt Parking Lot (33 Dreyfous Dr.). 8 a.m. to Noon. crescentcityfarmersmarket.org Free Family Sunday Longue Vue House and Gardens. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free for LA residents. longuevue.com Harahan Farmers Market Weekly at 10th St. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. visitjeffersonparish.com/ events Merry Market
Theatre. $39+. saengernola. com/events Growing Up for Boys (9-13 years) Worley Hall, Manning Family Children’s Hospital. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $20. manningchildrens.org/ services/the-parenting-center/ 10 WEDNESDAY Holidays in Harmony with the Victory Belles BB’s Stage Door Canteen (945 Magazine St.). 11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. $22–68. nationalww2museum.org/ events-programs Lafreniere Park Farmers & Art Market Weekly at 3000 Downs Blvd. 2–7 p.m. visitjeffersonparish. com/events 11 THURSDAY 2025 LHSAA Prep Classic Through Dec. 13 Caesars Superdone. caesarssuperdome.com/ events Christmas in New Orleans with the Big Easy Boys Through Dec. 14 at Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts. $43–57. rivertowntheaters.com Greenway Supernova Through Dec. 13 at Lafitte Greenway. 5–9 p.m. Free. lafittegreenway.org/events 12 FRIDAY Dolly Days in Dutch Alley Dutch Alley. 1–3 p.m. Free. frenchmarket.org/event The Community Energy Advisors Initiative Central City Library. Noon to
algiersbonfire Christmas at Jackson Barracks Through Dec. 7 at Jackson Barracks (6541 St. Claude Ave). 5–9:30 p.m. Adults: $20+. 10 & Under: $10. jbchristmas.com Exotic Animal Races & Family Day Fair Grounds Race Course. 12:45 p.m. $19.10+ fairgroundsracecourse.com Family Garden Walks Weekly at Longue Vue House and Gardens. 11–11:45 a.m. Free with garden admission. longuevue.com Garden Workshops: Wreath Making Longue Vue House and Gardens. 1–2:30 p.m. $85. longuevue.com Jonas Brothers Smoothie King Center. 7:30 p.m. $82+. smoothiekingcenter.com Krampus Parade New Orleans/Bywater. 7:30 p.m. Free. kreweofkrampus. com/krampus-nolauf-parade Manning Family Children’s Holiday Parade French Quarter and downtown. 11 a.m. Free.
Longue Vue House and Gardens. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free to LA residents. longuevue.com 08 MONDAY Paradigm Gardens Holiday Concert Through Dec. 9 at Paradigm Gardens (1131 S. Rampart Street). 6 p.m. $49+. paradigmgardensnola.com/ event-calendar Pelicans vs. San Antonio Spurs Smoothie King Center. 8:30 p.m. $15+. smoothiekingcenter.com Kids Meeting Room, Nora Navra Library. 5–6 p.m. Free. neworleans.libnet.info/event 09 TUESDAY Back to the Future: The Musical Through Dec. 14 at Saenger Think It! Create It! Build It! (Ages 2–5)
Holidays in Harmony with the Victory Belles . See December 10.
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p.m. $20. manningchildrens. org/services/the-parenting- center/ Harry Shearer & Judith Owen’s Christmas Without Tears Orpheum Theater. 8 p.m. $47.45+. christmaswithouttears.com Learn to Type Without Looking - And Have Fun Too! Computer Lab, Main Library. 10–11 a.m. Free. neworleans. libnet.info 17 WEDNESDAY Craft Happy Hour: Perfect Pom Poms Ogden Museum of Southern Focus on Children Co-Parenting Class The Parenting Center, Manning Family Children’s Hospital. 4:30-6:30 p.m. $30. manningchildrens.org/ services/the-parenting-center Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve Smoothie King Center. 7 p.m. $54.70+. smoothiekingcenter.com 18 THURSDAY Holiday Spectacular Orpheum Theater. 7:30–9:30 p.m. $35+. lpomusic.com/events Pelicans vs. Houston Rockets Smoothie King Center. 7 p.m. $28+. Smoothiekingcenter.com 19 FRIDAY It’s a Wonderful Life: 1940s Radio Play BB’s Stage Door Canteen Art. 6–8 p.m. $35–40. ogdenmuseum.org
Celebration in the Oaks. See December 1.
Saints vs. Carolina Panthers Caesars Superdome. 3:25 p.m. $176+. caesarssuperdome.com 15 MONDAY Glass Recycling Drop Off with Grassroots Mid-City Library. 4:30–6:30 p.m. neworleans.libnet.info The Victory Belles Illuminate the Night Weekly at The National WWII Museum. 5:30–8 p.m. $20–79. nationalww2museum.org 16 TUESDAY Car Seat Fitting Station 1st Floor Parking Garage, Manning Family Children’s Hospital. 9–11 a.m. Free. manningchildrens.org/ services/the-parenting-center/ Growing Up for Girls (9-12 years) Worley Hall, Manning Family Children’s Hospital. 6:30–8:30
fairgroundsracecourse.com Preservation Resource Center Holiday Home Tour Through Dec. 14 at 2343 Prytania St. $35–50. prcno.org/event SantaCon Bar Crawl New Orleans. 1 p.m. $33.72+. pubcrawls.com/new-orleans- santacon-crawl The Nutcracker Through Dec. 23 at The Orpheum Theater. $51.55+. neworleansballettheatre.com/ season-glance 14 SUNDAY A Candy Cane Celebration Destrehan Plantation. 10 a.m. to Noon & 1–3 p.m. Adults: $25. Children: $20. Ages 2 & Under: Free. destrehanplantation.org/ events/a-candy-cane- celebration Music in the Garden Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. 2–4 p.m. Free. noma.org/event
2 p.m. Free. neworleans. libnet.info The Muppet Christmas Carol Mahalia Jackson Theater. 7:30–9:30 p.m. $40–110. lpomusic.com/events 13 SATURDAY 11th Annual Lights on the Lake 5–8 p.m. $10. 5 & under: Free. scienceforourcoast.org/events Christmas in Covington Covington Trailhead Museum and Visitors Center. 4–6:30 p.m. Free. visitthenorthshore. com/event/christmas-in- covington/8742 Compete 4 Cause Classic Smoothie King Center. 5 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $36.30+. smoothiekingcenter.com Kenner’s Ole Man River Half Marathon Heritage Park. 7 a.m. to Noon. $40+. runsignup.com/Race/ LA/Kenner/OleManRiver Louisiana Champions Day Fair Grounds Race Course. 12:45 p.m. $24.20+
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