A New Orleans-Style Christmas in Lights and Holiday Displays

New Orleans is a city known for its many festive occasions in music, cuisine, the performing arts and a welcoming atmosphere. During the holiday season, there are several displays that adorn the New Orleans area. These displays provide cheer, joy and opportunities for family and friends to gather together in admiration and visual delight. The good times always seem to roll in The Big Easy, despite the temperature or climate in the city. If you are spending the holidays in New Orleans, there is something there to cater to your appetite for pleasure, excitement and enjoyment. The following is a list of locations where there are holiday light displays, and in some cases, an added bonus of holiday music, food and libations.

1. Christmas in the Oaks
1 Palm Drive
New Orleans, LA 70124
(504)483-9415 phone

A 4 star occasion that has been a continuous symbol of a must see Christmas Holiday Celebration in New Orleans for several years. The light display benefits the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Live music, food, libation and spirit providers will be featured.

Begins
Friday, November 16
7:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The regular hours are Monday through Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday through Sunday, 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The display will be open weekends only November 24th through November 26th and December 1st through 3rd, open nightly December 8th through December 30th, closed December 24th and 25th.

2. Longue Vue Holiday Decorations
7 Bamboo Road
New Orleans, LA 70124-1065
504) 488-5488 phone

Monday, December 3 through Monday, December 31
Call 504-488-5488 to order
Admission: $10.00 Adults and $5.00 for Students & Children, Free for Members.

During December, visit the festively decorated house and experience the holiday traditions of the Sterns. The exterior and interior of the home are beautifully decorated and adorned with lights for your visual enjoyment. There is also a place to shop at Longue Vue to meet all of your unique holiday gift and decoration needs.

3. Festival of Trees
Date and Time: November 30 at noon until December 1 at 5pm.

The first annual "Art in the Alley" sponsored by The Exchange Alley Project on November 30 and December 1st. Local artists selected to share their unique talents in creating custom holiday trees with lights and sculptures that will be displayed in Exchange Alley and auctioned off on Saturday, December 1. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to the COPS 8-Citizens' Organization for Police Support dedicated to the 8th District New Orleans Police. . For more information call (504)524-9900 or go to www.tripsmarter.com.

4. Candlelight Tour of Historic Homes and Landmarks
Thursday, December 13
$5-$10
Call (504) 522-5730 to order

Experience the romance and heritage of New Orleans on a tour of 19th-century homes and landmarks. Walk through the treasured homes and museums all decorated in Christmas past and present. Self-guided tour with refreshments. 5pm-8pm. Call (504)522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org for advance tickets or purchase tickets at any of the properties on tour night. $10 adults, $5 children 12 and under.

Overall, have and safe and wonderful holiday season with your family and friends in Nawlins.