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Atchafalaya Christmas Swamp Tour with Papa Noël

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Beyond the world-famous airboat and swamp tours offered at McGee’s Swamp Tours, they also host special events throughout the year that celebrate our Joie de vie (joy of life)! Christmas-themed tours led by Papa Noël, the Atchafalaya Christmas Swamp Tour, is the perfect way to celebrate the holidays! The family fun doesn’t stop with Christmas, as these tours also introduce guests to Louisiana’s unique swamp environment and heritage.

Atchafalaya Christmas Swamp Tour

We had a wonderful time on the water this past weekend with Papa Noel! It felt as if you were stepping back in time and slowing down to enjoy the simple things we cherish in the festive season, like bells and carols and good old-fashioned chats with Papa Noel.
Atchafalaya Christmas Swamp Tour
Upon arrival, we were welcomed at the door with a swift check-in; walking into the entry to their gift/snack shop, it is very cozy and filled with a few goodies your kids will want to buy. (come prepared for this!)
Once ready, a short walk to the boat, and we were off for some Christmas fun on the Bayou. Papa Noël welcomed everyone, and the elves served up candy canes, cookies, and informative snippets about the region and the wildlife in the swamp.
Atchafalaya Christmas Swamp Tour
Papa Noël read the story ‘Cajun Night Before Christmas’ in the ‘real way it’s meant to be read,’ according to my 10-year-old! You can purchase the book in the bookstore and get it signed by Papa Noël himself! The kids sang a couple of Cajun carols, and a surprise visitor was on board, a baby alligator!
If you are looking for traditional fun with your kids, carol singing and bell ringing, and one-on-one chat time with Papa Noël, this is the experience for you!  Sit and look out for a bald eagle or a Santa skeleton (go and see for yourself!) or jingle the bells and sing along.. the choice is yours!
Upon our return, we enjoyed hot chocolate and crafts –  when back on deck after a photo op with Papa Noel, you can make an ornament to take home and hang on your tree and remember the time you went on a memorable swamp tour with your loved ones at Christmas time!

Papa Noël

Around the world Santa Claus has many names. But in a deep, swampy bayou of Louisiana, he’s known as Papa Noël. In such a hot and humid place, there can be no sleds or reindeer, so Papa Noël rides the river in a boat pulled by eight alligators.

Papa Noël is headed back to the Atchafalaya Basin for the fifth year! McGee’s is again offering swamp tours led by Papa Noël (aka Santa Claus) himself! Alas, the 60-minute tour will share the story of “The Cajun Night Before Christmas.”

After each tour there will be family photos with Santa, ornament decorating (with a swamp-theme), hot chocolate, cookies, and candy-canes. All included in the price of your tour!

WHEN:

  • December – 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 & 23

  • Tour Departures at 9:00AM, 9:30AM, 11:00AM, 11:30AM, 1:30PM, 2:00PM, 3:30PM and 4:00PM.

WHERE:

MCGEE’S SWAMP TOURS
​1337 HENDERSON LEVEE RD.
HENDERSON, LA 70517
337-228-2384

 

ADMISSION:

  • Children and Adults: $25.00

  • Children (under 2 years): FREE

Roz is a wife and mother of two, who loves traveling and experiencing life to the fullest. Raised in Southern Africa, she has lived in the UK, Thailand, and now the USA. She enjoys camping with her family, exploring new places, and sitting by a campfire. When she is not working, you will find her shouting for her kids on the soccer field, jogging with loud music in her ears, or creating art with her kids.

Things to Do in Baton Rouge this Weekend {Dec 10 – Dec 11}

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The Family Friendly Baton Rouge weekend guide is a round-up of all the best events happening this weekend and things to do near you. With the holidays upon us, there is no shortage of things to do in Baton Rouge with your family!

Events are subject to change, be sure to check events are as scheduled before heading out. 

Things To Do in Baton Rouge this weekend: 

 

Santa Rocks the Rowe | December 10 | 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Things to Do in Baton Rouge

Join us TOMORROW, Saturday, December 10 from 5pm-8pm for Perkins Rowe‘s annual Santa Rocks the Rowe event!
🎅 Paid Photos with Santa provided by Cherry Hill
🎨 Face painting
🎄 Christmas Crafts and letters to Santa with Baton Rouge Family Fun
🎁 Games
🎶 Live Music and more!
Music Schedule:
Enjoy your favorite holiday tunes by local musicians:
The Cool Beans
5pm-6pm
Town Square Stage
The Baton Rouge Concert Band
6:30pm-8:00pm
Street next to CPK

 

 Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade | December 10 | 5:30pm

Things to Do in Baton Rouge

The Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade rolls at 5:30pm. See the map below for parking and save a spot in front of Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge Downtown for easy access to drinks and restrooms! Battle of the Bands starts at 4pm.

Let it Sneaux | December 10 | 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

BREC Park

Friends, community and holiday cheer, make this season the most wonderful time of the year! Perkins Road Community Park is turning into a Winter Wonderland for this year’s Let It Sneaux! Come stuff your stockings on your stroll down Candy Cane Lane, take photos with Santa, enjoy s’mores and hot chocolate while watching movies on the big screen, playing in the snow and much more!

Event is free of charge and donations are welcome to benefit the BREC Foundation’s Send a Kid to Camp Program.

Come join the holiday fun! If you are a business or organization and would like to bRING in the holiday with us, reserve your spot here!

Perkins Road Community Park
7122 Perkins Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Festival of the Bonfires | December 9-11 |

CHRISTMAS ON THE RIVER…CAJUN STYLE! Enjoy great food, live entertainment, crafts, Santa’s Very Merry Forest and carnival rides throughout the weekend. Each night will be highlighted with a single bonfire lighting! Come out and experience a prelude to the famous Christmas Eve Bonfires: A tradition unique to St. James Parish and all the world!! LOCATION: Lutcher Recreational Park Lutcher Avenue- La HWY 3193 Lutcher, LA 70071 DATES: December 9, 10, and 11

Marche in the Park Christmas Market | December 11th  | 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Come out December 11th, 11am-4pm for Denham Springs Big Christmas Market! Come check out Christmas Marché in North Park! 190+ Vendors, Santa Pictures, Grinch Pictures, Face Painting, Bounce House, Free children’s craft corner, Food Trucks, Surprise Guest Appearances, and More!! ????

 

Find more Baton Rouge holiday events and activities for the family in our Christmas Events Guide:

Baton Rouge Holiday Events Guide

Things to Do in Baton Rouge this Weekend {Dec 2 – Dec 4}

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The Family Friendly Baton Rouge weekend guide is a round-up of all the best events happening this weekend and things to do near you. With the holidays upon us, there is no shortage of things to do in Baton Rouge with your family!

Events are subject to change, be sure to check events are as scheduled before heading out. 

Things To Do in Baton Rouge this weekend: 

 

Festival of Lights | December 2 | 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS - Christmas in Baton Rouge

Grab your cameras and your Christmas cheer, and get ready to enjoy the magic of the season. The Festival of Lights, Baton Rouge’s oldest holiday tradition, transforms the winter sky into a wonderland on December 2nd from 4-8 pm.

Welcome the holidays with half a million sparkling lights on North Boulevard, a 35-foot Christmas tree, a snow village complete with ice skating, and a visit from Santa Claus himself! Watch as the magic lights up before your eyes with a fireworks show and the annual tree lighting ceremony in North Boulevard Town Square. See our post with a full schedule of events!

Boucherie and Balloon Festival | December 2 -4 | Times Vary

The Boucherie and Balloon Festival is coming back to Sorrento! From hot air balloons, carnival rides, and cracklin’ cookoffs, to live music and plenty of shopping, they’ve got festivities you and the family won’t want to miss.

Sensory Santa | December 2 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

North Sherwood Forest Community Park – Drive thru the holidays at BREC’s Selfies with Santa. Each car will receive prepackaged holiday activities, snacks and reindeer food! Santa will also be available to take selfies with you and your family from the safety of your own car. This event is free and open to all ages and abilities.

Broadmoor’s Annual Christmas Parade | December 3 | 11:00 a.m.

Hosted by the Broadmoor Residents’ Association.
• This is an outdoor event and the parade will roll as long as weather conditions permit.
• The parade route begins at Broadmoor High School parking lot (on Goodwood Blvd), east onto Goodwood Blvd, through the S curve, then north on Woodhaven St, then west on S. River Oaks Dr., then south on Cora Dr., then east on Goodwood Blvd back to the Broadmoor High School parking lot. The parade route is about 1.9 miles in length.
In addition, they are asking both participants and attendees to bring a non-perishable food item(s) for donation. All the food items collected will be given to the food pantry immediately after the parade and then distributed to those in need by S.E. Ministries. For information on the Broadmoor Christmas Parade (including the parade route map), check the ‘Parade’ section of the website at http://www.broadmoor-br.org

A Rural Life Christmas | December 4 | 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

Ring in the Holiday season with a 19th century Louisiana celebration at the LSU Rural Life Museum.  Decorations with natural trimmings representative of special times of long ago will be displayed throughout the museum’s grounds.  Seasonal activities such a musical groups, demonstrating artisans, open-hearth cooking, storytellers, and costumed re-enactors will be present during this event. A complete list of activities and musical performances will be available soon. Children ages 0-3 will be admitted at no charge.  For everyone else, the cost is $10.00 per person. Admission: $10.00 per person. This event will conclude with a bonfire and a visit from Papa Noel!

Baton Rouge Zoo’s ZooLights | Through December 30th  | Zoo Hours

Zoolights is a mile-long trail through the Zoo with more than 50 illuminated display sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays. Once again, the Zoo is partnering with The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank to bring more impact & excitement to Zoolights. Every guest presenting non-perishable food items (minimum of one per person) during the hours of Zoolights, will receive a 50% discount from the regular admission price. All food donations will go directly to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.
DATES: November 25 – December 30 Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Admission gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

 

Find more Baton Rouge holiday events and activities for the family in our Christmas Events Guide:

Baton Rouge Holiday Events Guide

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

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Tis’ the season to get into the holiday spirit! We are RACKing up Random Acts of Christmas Kindness this season, and we would love for you to join us! We are spreading the joy of the holidays by performing a Random Act of Christmas Kindness each day throughout December. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the true reason for the season… family, togetherness, community, and giving!

The best part of participating in even the smallest act of kindness and/or giving is that generosity and kindness are contagious!

Goodness spurs goodness: A single act can influence dozens more.

Please join us for our 8th Annual RACK! We are showering the Baton Rouge community with Christmas Kindness all month long!

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

What is RACK, and how does it work?

 It’s a way to infuse holiday spirit in others by performing a Random Act of Christmas Kindness throughout December! Many do a RACK a day for 25 days leading up to Christmas, an advent of sorts. However, we are asking you to join us in doing what you can, when you can, however big, however small. Be creative and lead with your heart! Most importantly, get the whole family involved!

We have created printable RACK cards in different sizes; print and attach them to your RACK. Although there are many ways to offer a RACK, we have put together an extensive list of ideas and a calendar if you want to follow a list of acts.

RACK – Random Acts of Christmas Kindness Ideas:

  1. Rake the yard of a neighbor who can’t rake it themselves.
  2. Bless your garbage collectors with a treat or small gift card for lunch.
  3. Have your children make the mailman or lady a Thank You card or poster with treats taped to it.
  4. Tape coins on vending machines for snacks or sodas. The hospital would be an excellent place for this!
  5. Tape single dollars to items at the dollar store. (plus a dime for tax)
  6. RACK a Red Box by leaving a dollar or two and some popcorn or a candy cane.
  7. Donate items to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank
  8. Pack toiletry or snack bags for Volunteers of America Greater Baton Rouge homeless shelters.
  9. Donate a coat to Pat’s Coats for Kids.
  10. Bake treats and take them to the police station or fire station with thank you cards for their service.
  11. Take a break from texting and mail an actual handwritten letter or card to someone you love.
  12. Send letters or gifts to an assisted living home. Coordinate with your local nursing or retirement home first.
  13. Take Get Well balloons or flowers to the hospital and leave them with a nurse for someone who is alone.
  14. Fill a Good Samaritans Christmas Box
  15. Tape quarters to laundromat machines.
  16. Leave a basket of Christmas gifts on the doorstep of a family in need.
  17. Leave a $5 bill on the pump at a gas station.
  18. Bring treats to your local urgent care office on Christmas Eve.
  19. Cook a meal and deliver it to someone who could use a meal. Someone who is sick, a new family in the neighborhood or at church, a new mom.
  20. Take a person who’s working on Christmas Eve something special.
  21. Drop off books to give to patients at the OLOL Children’s Hospital.
  22. Drop off a coffee and a treat to a busy mom.
  23. Bring a gift to Santa.
  24. ‘Ding dong ditch’ your neighbors with fresh-baked goods.
  25. Before paying at the grocery store, buy a gift card, and then turn around and hand it to the person behind you or to the cashier.
  26. Leave an extra big tip at a restaurant.
  27. Donate to the local animal shelter. Contact a local animal shelter to find out what they need. (food, blankets, towels, and food bowls, etc.)
  28. Put something you no longer need on Craigslist’s FREE section.
  29. Fill purses you no longer use with toiletries and fun items for men and donate to your local women’s shelter.
  30. Foster a dog for the local animal shelter.

Rack Tag printables…

RACK CardsDownload Medium RACK Cards HERE.

RACK Christmas TagDownload Small RACK Cards HERE.

Small RACK CircleDownload XSmall Circle TACK Tags HERE

 A RACK Advent calendar can be found here.

 More cards and tags can be found here.

It’s our responsibility to discuss gratefulness, generosity, unselfishness and service not just during the holidays but year-round. We are our children’s greatest role models — we should start early to mold our children’s perspectives on the holiday season. May we create such treasured memories of family time and togetherness, and the joy of giving, that our children will hold on to these memories for a lifetime and pass them on to their children.

We wish each of you a blessed Christmas Season full of RACK!

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Where to Visit Black Santa in Baton Rouge & New Orleans

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Santa Claus is coming to town and we know kids are ready to visit with the Jolly Old soul. Most already know Santa can be found at Perkins Rowe, Mall of Louisiana, Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland, and Cabelas, but Black Santa is always a bit harder to find. We are lucky to have a diversity of Santas in the Baton Rouge and New Orleans Area, but it can still be hard to know where to find a consistent Black Santa experience, so we’ve rounded up a few you can visit this holiday season.

Where to Visit Black Santa in Baton Rouge

Chateau Lyle Photos with Santa

Where to Visit Black Santa in Baton Rouge

WHEN: Sunday, December 4, 2022 1pm-4pm

WHERE: CHATEAU LYLE
9405 GREENWELL SPRINGS RD
BATON ROUGE, LA, 70814

Call or text and reserve your spot today.
(985)284-4397

AMY MARTIN PHOTOGRAPHY

WHEN: December 3

WHERE: This is an indoor shoot at our Mid City Baton Rouge studio located at
2931 Government St.

Each shoot is a quick 10 minute time slot. The price of $150 includes the shoot, your online gallery and $100 credit toward your order. They offer a variety of products from prints, digital files, cards, albums, framed prints etc.
If your child is afraid of Santa we can do a peek-a-boo option.

*****Another Day may be added if there is enough interest!! *****

 

Where to Visit Black Santa in New Orleans 

Gintilly Santa

Where to Visit Black Santa in New Orleans

WHEN: December 1, 11, 21 and 23

WHERE: Multiple location throughout New Orleans – See images above and follow Gentilly Santa on Facebook and Instagram for more info!

Dennis Photofinish Ltd.

Dennis Photofinish on Tonti in NOLA had NOLA’s famous Chocolate Santa,  Mr. Fred Parker (aka 7th Ward Santa/Chocolate Santa) sadly, he passed away in 2020. A new Chocolate Santa will be doing photos once again and details are being solidified as we publish this. Check back for details!

WHEN: By Appointment only – TBA

WHERE: 1753 N Tonti St, New Orleans, LA, United States, Louisiana
(504) 944-5449

Check back as we will update this list through the Holiday season!

You might also enjoy perusing through our Christmas Events Guide for Things to Do in Baton Rouge and beyond!
Baton Rouge Holiday Events Guide

Baton Rouge Family Fun Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt

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One of our favorite family traditions is taking an evening car ride in search of the best Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge. From the houses with thousands of synchronized dancing lights to the simple and elegant ones, we appreciate the time it takes to share the beauty of their Christmas lights with the community. As you are driving around looking at Christmas Lights, add some more fun with a Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt!  You can add your own ideas to the list, too!

Find our giant list of Amazing Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond here!

Baton Rouge Family Fun Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt

Click on the image below for a FREE printable to take with you on your next adventure!

Christmas & Holiday Events in Baton Rouge & BeyondBaton Rouge Holiday Events Guide

Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond

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One of our favorite family traditions is taking an evening car ride in search of the best Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond. From the houses with thousands of synchronized dancing lights to the simple and elegant ones, we appreciate the time it takes to share the beauty of their Christmas lights with the community. See bright, sparkling lights, listen to holiday music, and donate to worthy causes while enjoying family time.

While every effort has been made to ensure this information is accurate, we encourage you to contact the display directly to verify that all details are correct and have not changed. 

🎄 Download our FREE Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt for some extra Family fun!

Looking for more festive family fun? Find more a plethora of holiday events to enjoy this season in our 2021 CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}.

If you know of a light display not on this list, we want to know – please email us!

Thanks to Refinery Counseling Center for sponsoring this year’s Holiday Events Guide.

Refinery Counseling Center was founded in 2022 with a heart to bring mental health counseling to the modern world. Far-removed from the sterile and stigmatized counseling experience, they provide elite boutique counseling services for children, teens, college students, adults, couples and families. Their hope is that your experience at Refinery would be one of excellence.

Christmas Lights in Baton Rouge & Beyond

ZooLights

During each evening, the Safari Post Gift Shop and Flamingo Café will remain open & feature special holiday treats and gift options.

WHEN: November 25 – December 30 – Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
Admissions gates open 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Zoo grounds close at 9 p.m.

ADMISSION:
Adults/Teens: $5
Seniors: $4
Ages 2-12: $3
Friends of the Zoo Members: $3 per person​

Prices will be reduced by 50% when guests present non-perishable food items to be donated to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. DATES: Nov. 25 – Dec. 30

Holiday Lights at Baton Rouge General

Join Baton Rouge General for their 5th annual Holiday Lights display, a first of its kind in Baton Rouge, where our lawn is transformed into a twinkling, singing and musically synchronized light display the whole family will enjoy. Candy canes, snowmen, gingerbread kids, and more fill the lawn adding to the more than 400,000 lights that are sure to dazzle the young and the young at heart. Driving by or strolling through, Holiday Lights are here to spread a little holiday cheer.

Holiday Lights Features

  • More than 400,000 twinkling lights
  • One 40-foot & two 25-foot mega trees
  • 24-foot walk-through holiday lights tunnel (new for 2021)
  • Giant walk-through present
  • Giant walk-through ornament – Presented by Audi Baton Rouge
  • Eight singing trees
  • Lighted candy canes, snowmen and gingerbread people
  • 9-foot Cajun alligator light display
Visit brgeneral.org/holidaylights for more info.
DATES: Nov 19 – Dec. 31

Celebration In The Oaks- New Orleans
2 Friederichs Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70124

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

Celebration in the Oaks in City Park is one of the most spectacular holiday lights festivals in the country. This beloved annual celebration is fun for all ages and has become an enduring holiday tradition for families, who come to Celebration in the Oaks to ride the train or carousel every year. Visitors are treated to a wide range of attractions, from light displays to the walkways lined with dozens of Christmas trees decorated by local school groups. Perennial favorites include the two-mile train ride through glittering light exhibits, the animated Cajun night before Christmas display, and of course, New Orleans’ iconic snowman Mr. Bingle. DATES: November 27 – January 2
(closed December 24th and 31st)

Christmas in the Park (Lafrienere Park)
3000 Downs Boulevard, Metairie, LA 70003

Lafreniere Park sparkles for the holidays with millions of twinkling lights and displays! Constructed with over 10 million LED lights, this year’s new exhibit is an interactive Christmas tree. Elaborate decorations, artificial snow, and festive lighted displays illuminate Lafreniere Park and include themes such as Star Wars, Marvel & D.C Comics, Minions, Disney Princesses, a pirate ship and so much more.

At Santa’s Express Mail Center, children are able to view Santa’s elves building toys for all the good little girls and boys. Attendees can also enjoy an interactive walking tour set to random scenes from their favorite holiday classics. There will be special appearances from Santa, Rudolph, Frosty, and the Grinch on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. Children can write a letter to Santa and mail it to him at the Elf Post Office.

DATES: Dec. 2 – Dec. 30

Kenner’s Heritage Park Christmas Village –
2015 Fourth Street, Kenner, LA

Each year in November and December, the streets and buildings in Rivertown from the railroad tracks to the river are adorned with dazzling lights and displays. The festivities culminate in Kenner’s Heritage Park located at the center of the district and open every day and evening. There, visitors can wander through and view the festival displays, shop local food and craft vendors, find a unique gift, take a photo with Santa or catch a song or dance performance by community churches and school groups.  Children revel in the sudsy “snow” that blankets the park throughout the evening and a special holiday-themed musical laser light show plays in the Planetarium theater right across the street.  You’re sure to catch some holiday cheer in Rivertown.​

Traditionally, the lights and decorations in Rivertown can be enjoyed nightly beginning in late November and running through the month of December.

Vendors, activities, and performances in the Christmas Village are planned every Friday and Saturday evening from 6-9 pm in Kenner’s Heritage Park at 2015 Fourth Street. Admission and parking are free.  Address: 2015 Fourth Street, Kenner, LA DATES: Dec. 2 – Dec. 18

2022 Christmas Light Displays in St. Tammany Parish

Christmas on Front Street

When: Nov 18 – January 1 Dusk ’til dawn

Where: Front Street, Olde Towne Slidell

The City of Slidell and Keep Slidell Beautiful will be welcoming you each night to the Olde Towne area with a dazzling display of holiday lights all along Front Street from West Hall to Erlanger Avenue.

Annual Christmas Under the Stars

When: December 2, 3, 9 and 10, 6-9 p.m.

Where: Griffith Park, 333 Erlanger Ave, Slidell

Join the free celebration of twinkling lights, festive decorations, life-size Christmas cottages and other family fun this December.

Annual Holiday of Lights

When: December 2, 3, 9 and 10, 6-8:30 p.m. each night

Where: Tammany Trace Trailhead at 21490 Koop Drive, Mandeville

The drive-thru Holiday of Lights display runs each weekend before Christmas and again on Christmas Eve and Christmas night.

12 Days of Christmas

When:December 9 – January 6 from dusk until dawn

Where: Historic Downtown Covington

A favorite Christmas carol has a place of prominence in Covington with lighted displays depicting the 12 Days of Christmas. Find them all with the map, snap a selfie, or belt the beloved carol on video to share with all those you’d love to be caroling with this holiday season.

Slidell’s Bayou Christmas

When:  December 15-18 and 22-23 6-9 p.m.

Where: Heritage Park, 1701 Bayou Lane, Slidell

Join the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Louisiana for a jolly ol’ time at their yearly fundraiser.

Noël Acadien Au Village
200 Greenleaf Dr Lafayette, LA 70506

Noel Acadien au Village features half-a-million lights, including the fully lit Chapel, NEW ANIMATIONS, lighted holiday displays, live entertainment, carnival rides, local cuisine, photos with Santa, holiday shopping in the Christmas Store, and much more!

DATES: Dec. 2 – Dec. 23

Residential Christmas Light Displays

Santa Fishing with Friends Lights and music.
8946 Trinity Ave Baton Rouge LA 70806

Brookhollow Glen Subdivision – Christmas lights stretch across five neighboring homes!
13514 Rendale Ave Brookhollow Dr.

This light display seems to grow each year, it’s located at 13514 Rendale Ave in the Brookhollow Glen subdivision – off Perkins Road.

 

Chuck’s Christmas Lights
Cottingham Ct
Baton Rouge, LA 70817

 

Messenger’s Christmas Land
9481 Prince Charles, Denham Springs

Opening night will be on Monday, December 6th, and will run every night until December 28th. They will be open nightly from 6:00-9:00pm.

The story of the Messenger’s Christmas Land starts over 50 years ago with Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Messenger Jr. and their 9 kids. With just a few lights and homemade animated scenes, word quickly spread about the unusual display for the public. The original location was at the Messenger’s home in Red Oaks, Baton Rouge and then relocated in 1992 to Plantation Estates, Denham Springs where Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Messenger III took over for the next 21 years. Now, going on 53 years, this family tradition can still be visited at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Messenger off Prince Charles Street, Denham Springs. With lights everywhere, homemade animated scenes, a timeline, and even the north pole, the display continues to open every Christmas season to all of the public with no charge.

Messenger's Christmas Land

DATES: Dec. 2 – Dec. 27

Wilson Christmas Lights
9615 Sagefield Dr Central City, LA 70818

This is a stay in your vehicle to watch the show, just tune your radio to 96.7 FM to listen to the music.

Lighting up Zachary
1136 Eagle Dr Zachary, LA 70791

🎄This is a FREE, drive-up, animated light show with over 30 minutes of music and lights for the whole family to enjoy! Our display has over 60,000 lights programmed by 180,000 channels of high tech animation.
🎄Our 2022 show runs in cycles, every night from 5:30-10:00 pm, with the last night being January 1, 2023.
🎄We are located at 1136 Eagle Drive in Zachary, Louisiana. We are on the corner of Eagle Dr. and Fairway Dr. , which allows for more viewing points of the show!
🎄You can watch from your car by tuning to 105.9 FM on your radio.
🎄Out of respect for our neighbors (and because we want to continue to have a show each year) please be sure to keep your radio at a reasonable volume.
🎄Please do NOT block the flow of traffic on the roadway or any driveways. Ideally, keeping all parked cars on one side of the street.
🎄This year we are collecting donations for our local St. Jude Children’s Hospital and JDRF Chapter. These are both near and dear to our family and we love to share more with you, if you are interested! You can donate via Venmo: @glimpsesoflightllc and be sure to note what it’s for!

The Griswold’s of Oak Place
34819 Oak Place Drive, Denham Springs, LA 70706

The display is a drive-by display with tons of inflatables!!  (weather permitting)

The Davis’ Magical Christmas Land
26658 John L Ln Denham Springs, LA 70726

The Christmas Display is open nightly (weather permitting) for walk through visitors. Over 300 inflatables!

Christmas lights at The Stroud’s
Plantation Ave, Denham Springs

Across the street from Walgreens at range and Vincent rd in Denham springs

Groome Family Lights
41037 fields court Prairieville Louisiana 70769

Tune radio your vehicle to 90.1

Old Dutchtown Christmas Light Show
13249 Old Dutchtown Ave Gonzales, La 70737

 Set to music with dazzling lights. Runs nightly from 6 to 9 starting December 1st through New Years Day (weather permitting).

Sevario Family Light Show
13378 Lonnie Wascom Drive
Walker, LA 70785

Listen to the lights – 90.1 FM

 

More Christmas Light Display Recommendations:

  • Hundred Oaks and Arlington
  • 5735 Antioch Blvd
  • Woodridge Subdivision off Pecou Lane – Many Lit Houses
  • The Garden District
  • Elliot Rd. – Home lights synced to music
  • Southwind & Wyndy in Parkview off of Stumberg

West Baton Rouge

  • Molaison St in Addis
  • Emily Drive in Brusly

Central

  • 9615 Sagefield Dr.
  • 14003 Triple B Rd.
  • 15901 Chanove Ave.
  • Zoar Baptist Church

Ascension

  • Oak Alley Subdivision, Giesmer
  • Fields Ct. Off 44 near the Dollar General, Prairieville
  • 13255 Old Dutchtown Ave, Gonzales, LA Multipls homes with lights and music.
  • Most of the subdivisions along Bluff Rd

 

Looking for more festive family fun? Find more a plethora of holiday events to enjoy this season in our 2021 CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}.
Baton Rouge Holiday Events Guide

 

Ice Skating on the River – Baton Rouge Family Fun

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The Raising Cane’s River Center will once again magically transform into a “Winter Wonderland” just in time for you to create your holiday memories. Ice Skating on the River is an annual holiday tradition that will kick off on Friday, December 16, 2022

A fun-filled holiday event for all ages, Ice Skating on the River will have 75-minute sessions nearly every day from December 166th until January 3.

Skating lessons for beginners covering basic skating skills will be available from 9:00 AM until 9:45 AM on December 18, 19, 24, 26, and 31.

Ice Skating on the River

The lesson is a 20-minute Instructor-led class with the remaining time devoted to practicing skills taught. Skating lesson costs are $20 for one lesson, $50 for three lessons, or $75 for five lessons. To get additional information, please email rivercenterskatinglessons@gmail.com.

What better way to celebrate the holiday season than with Ice Skating on the River? Please join us for a skating session and create winter memories that will last a lifetime.

Tickets will be available online at www.Ticketmaster.com or at the River Center Box Office on River Road soon. For more information, please contact the Raising Cane’s River Center at 225-389-3030.

Ice Skating on the River

Ice Skating on the River

WHEN: Friday, December 17, 2022 – January 3rd.

SESSION TIMES*: 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m.

Dec 24 – 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM

Dec 25 – CLOSED

Dec 31 – 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM

Jan 1 – CLOSED

Jan 2 – 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM

WHERE: Raising Cane’s River Center Arena, 275 S River Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

ADMISSION: Session ticket prices are $20. This ticket price includes your stake rental.

Paid admission is required for skaters only, spectators do not need tickets.

Tickets are available on Ticketmaster.com or at the River Center Box Office on River Road.

Tickets are only valid for the session you purchase them for.

To place an order for group rate tickets, field trips or birthday parties, please complete the form at the top of the page and someone will be in touch with you within 1-2 business days.

Birthday/ Pizza Parties – $27 per person

Groups of 10-19 – $15 per person

Groups of 20-49 – $14 per person

Groups of 50+ – $13 per person

Learn more on the River Center Website: raisingcanesrivercenter.com/ice-skating-on-the-river

Looking for more festive family fun? Find more a plethora of holiday events to enjoy this season in our 2022 CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}.

Baton Rouge Holiday Events Guide

The Legacy Brunch with Santa and Jingle & Mingle

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The Legacy is back with it’s popular Holiday events in December!! These events are family-friendly and strollers are welcome. However, if you are in need of a parenting break,  Jingle & Mingle would make a wonderful Date Night or Moms Night Out! See below to learn more about The Legacy’s holiday events…

The Legacy – 3rd Annual Jingle & Mingle

The Legacy Brunch with Santa and Jingle & Mingle

Join The Legacy for their 3rd Annual Jingle & Mingle Shopping Event!! It is a one-of-a-kind “evening stroll” shopping event just in time for the gift-giving season. There will be a variety of well-known local vendors showcasing their specialty merchandise just for you. This will be the perfect place to shop for all of those hard-to-find items for the upcoming holidays.

Sip, Stroll, and Shop while enjoying live music from Box and Kevin!
WHEN: Friday, December 9th from 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM CST
WHERE: The Legacy at Bonne Esperance 1655 Sherwood Forest Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70815
ADMISSION: Free to Shop but grab you a VIP pass, you won’t regret it!
VIP PASS – limited amount will be sold
$20 on Eventbrite – All you can drink wine and all you can eat Hor d’oeuvres
$30 at the door – All you can drink wine and all you can eat Hor d’oeuvres
Bar and Grill will be open.
Free Parking.
Stroller Friendly.

The Legacy – Brunch with Santa

The Legacy Brunch with Santa and Jingle & Mingle

Celebrate the season with The Legacy at their Brunch with Santa. Enjoy a brunch buffet with a very special visit from Santa.
BATON ROUGE BRUNCH WITH SANTA
WHEN: Saturday, December 17th BRUNCH WITH SANTA SESSIONS: 9 AM, 10:30 AM, 12 PM
WHERE: The Legacy at Bonne Esperance 1655 Sherwood Forest Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70815
ADMISSION: $5 – $30
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
Please register all attendees to reserve their seats. Space is limited. All brunch tickets include the brunch buffet and your choice of soft drink, coffee, or juice. Alcohol is not included with your ticket, but can be purchased separately the day of.
This event sells out every year so grab your tickets now!

 

Baton Rouge Holiday Events Guide

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS – Christmas in Baton Rouge

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Grab your cameras and your Christmas cheer, and get ready to enjoy the magic of the season. The Festival of Lights, Baton Rouge’s oldest holiday tradition, transforms the winter sky into a wonderland on December 2nd from 4-8 pm.

Welcome the holidays with half a million sparkling lights on North Boulevard, a 35-foot Christmas tree, a snow village complete with ice skating, and a visit from Santa Claus himself! Watch as the magic lights up before your eyes with a fireworks show and the annual tree lighting ceremony in North Boulevard Town Square.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS - Christmas in Baton Rouge

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Skating begins at 4 PM – Ages 5-10 Only
Snow Village begins at 5 PM – Ages 5-15 Only

Snow in Baton Rouge??? Yep, 10 tons of real snow will be ready and waiting for the kids at Repentance Park! Repentance Park is located between the Old State Capitol and River Center. Enjoy Baton Rouge’s very own Rockefeller Center-style ice skating rink located on the first floor of the River Center Plaza, where festival-goers can stand on the balcony and watch the children skate around the plaza!

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS - Christmas in Baton Rouge

HOLIDAY FILM SCREENINGS – 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.

From 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m., you can enjoy screenings of your favorite holiday classics, such as How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Frosty the Snowman, at Harley/Vey Theatres.

TREE LIGHTING & FIREWORKS – 6:20pm 

Mayor Broome will countdown the City’s Christmas Tree lighting along with half a million sparkling lights on North Boulevard. Experience the magic beneath the 25-foot Christmas tree on North Boulevard and marvel over the elaborate fireworks show on the Mississippi River! While you await the countdown, you can support Louisiana Youth Orchestra by shopping their bake sale, where baked goods, hot chocolate, and popcorn will be available for purchase, or let the kids decorate a personalized ornament to cherish for years to come.

The preferred area for viewing the fireworks will be North Boulevard at Town Square, facing the Christmas Tree and Mississippi River.

BATON ROUGE  SANTA – 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.

Santa will assist Mayor Broome to countdown the lighting of Baton Rouge’s Christmas Tree! Afterwards you are invited to the Louisiana Old State Capitol for a special photo-op and other holiday festivities. Louisiana’s Old State Capitol will host their annual “Santa in The Senate” on Friday, Dec. 2nd from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.

Guests of the Old State Capitol will have the opportunity to take their photo with Mr. & Mrs. Claus in the old Senate Chamber and then enjoy a Christmas film in the old House Chamber.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras or cell phone to take pictures. There will be arts and crafts for children to partake in and a special treat upon existing the building.

DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY SPIRIT

Downtown Baton Rouge will be in the holiday spirit with tons of activities going on. Most of the downtown churches and museums participate in the evening by having live nativity scenes, giving away hot chocolate, singing Christmas carols, and much more!

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS - Christmas in Baton Rouge

ARTIST VILLAGE

Produced by the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, this year’s Artists Village at the Festival of Lights will be located in the Rhorer Plaza Lawn. Over ten local artists will be selling handmade crafts to complete your Christmas shopping list. Along with the artists, the festival will include a bake sale, hot chocolate for sale, and multiple food vendors.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS - Christmas in Baton Rouge

Full Festival of Lights Schedule

Mayor’s Stage at Galvez Plaza

Justin Garner
4:15p.m. – 6:00p.m.

Lighting Ceremony and Fireworks
6:00p.m. – 6:25p.m.

“Swing into Christmas” with Ned Fasullo
6:25p.m. – 8:00p.m.

Holiday Fun at North Boulevard Town Square

Experience North Boulevard Oak Alley

See 250,000 Christmas lights!

Bayou Cirque Performers

Experience the magic of the holidays with Live Actors, Krampus, Jack
Frost, Winter Witch, Winter Fairies, Santa’s Elves and more!

Kid’s Orchestra

Join Kid’s Orchestra at Festival of Lights for a live instrument petting zoo.
Touch a real violin, or a trumpet, and learn about all of the opportunities
kid’s orchestra has for your student.

Winter Wonderland

Community Stage

4:00p.m. – 8:00p.m.
McKinley Middle Choir, BRCVPA, Woodlawn
Middle Choir, Cangelosi Dance Project, Liberty
High Dance, Creme de la Rouge, EBRPSS
Talented Arts Program, McKinley Middle Magnet
Dancers, Baton Rouge Cheer Academy, Capital
High School Dance, Forest Heights Music
Theatre

Free Ice Skating

4:00p.m. – 8:00p.m.
First Floor Outdoor Plaza
Provided by the River Center.
Ages 5-10 only.

Free Snow Village

5:00p.m. – 8:00p.m.
Repentance Park
Take a turn playing in ten (10) tons of real snow!
Ages 5-15 only.

Free Holiday Shorts

5:30p.m. – 8:00p.m.
EBRP River Center Branch Library
Watch screenings of your favorite holiday shorts

Santa’s Gift Shop

4:00p.m. – 8:00p.m.
Rhorer Plaza
Artists from the Baton Rouge Arts Market and
around the region sell unique handmade items

Other Downtown Holiday Fun

Holiday Shopping Event

4:00p.m. – 8:00p.m.
LSU Museum of Art Store (1st Floor), 100 Lafayette Street
Visit the LSU Museum Store for their 18th annual Holiday Shopping
Event! Get 20% off one item (excluding sale merchandise). Free gift
wrap! Shop and enter to win raffle prizes!

Live Nativity

5:00p.m. – 6:00p.m.
First Presbyterian Church Terraced Garden, 763 North Boulevard
Visit the beautiful Terraced Garden for a re-enactment of the birth of
Jesus Christ as told in the Gospels. Featuring a mini petting zoo for the
young ones. Performances are approximately 30 minutes.
Linger after the last performance and experience a Christmas concert
with Michael O’Brien and the Foto Sisters; “The Incarnation of Christ.”
Concert will be in the Sanctuary at 7p.m.

Santa in the Senate

Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd
Join us at the Old State Capitol from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday,
December 2, 2022, for our annual Santa in the Senate event – part of the
Downtown Festival of Lights. Use your own camera or phone to capture
a photo with Santa in the Senate chamber. Enjoy free showings of the
Ghost of the Castle, kid-friendly crafts and holiday movies.
This event is free and open to the public. The castle will be decorated and
the OSC elves will be hard at work to give you and your family a
memorable evening!

Looking for more festive family fun? Find more a plethora of holiday events to enjoy this season in our 2022 CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE: {GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS}.

Baton Rouge Holiday Events Guide