December The Manning Family Children’s Holiday Parade kicks off the holiday season in early December, rolling through downtown New Orleans with festive floats, giant balloons, marching bands, Santa Claus, and special appearances, bringing holiday cheer and community spirit to the start of the season. manningchildrens.org
A cherished Louisiana tradition, the Bonfires on the Levee light up the Mississippi River on Christmas Eve. From Algiers to Lutcher and neighboring communities throughout the River Parishes, towering wooden structures illuminate the night sky in a spectacular holiday display. According to local legend, the bonfires help guide Papa Noël on his journey, drawing thousands of spectators each year. City Park transforms into a winter wonderland during Celebration in the Oaks . Families can stroll through dazzling light displays, festive attractions, and holiday-themed activities throughout the season—all month long! celebrationintheoaks.com
January College football takes center stage as top teams compete in the Allstate Sugar Bowl at Caesars Superdome on January15 as part of the College Football Playoff semifinals. The annual matchup brings fans from across the country and continues a New Orleans tradition that dates back to 1935. allstatesugarbowl.org Carnival season officially begins on Twelfth Night, January 6, kick-starting the return of king cakes across the city, with historic bakeries like Dong Phuong, Haydel’s, and Manny Randazzo carrying on generations-old reci- pes. Bakeries debut their signature creations, and locals eagerly begin count- ing down to Mardi Gras.
February February reaches its peak in New Orleans as Carnival season comes alive in the final weekends before Mardi Gras. The city is transformed with parades, costumes, music, and centuries-old traditions. Parades from Uptown to the French Quarter roll daily with elaborate floats, marching bands, and walking krewes, building toward Mardi Gras celebrations and Fat Tuesday itself, which falls on February 9. It’s one of the most energetic and iconic times of year to experience the city in full cele- bration mode. mardigrasneworleans.com Mystery meets comedy in this fast-paced stage adap- tation of the classic board game. Clue is coming to the Saenger Theatre February 19–21. Audiences can step inside a mansion full of secrets, suspects, and surprises as the story unfolds live on stage. saengernola.com
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