• About
  • Contact
  • ADVERTISING

Baton Rouge Family Fun

The premiere digital resource for families in Baton Rouge & Beyond

Baton Rouge Summer Camp
  • Home
  • Things To Do in Baton Rouge
    • Family Friendly Baton Rouge
    • Baton Rouge Area Spring / Easter Events & Activity Guide
    • Baton Rouge Easter Egg Hunt Guide
    • Christmas in Baton Rouge Events Guide
    • Summer Fun in Baton Rouge and Beyond
    • Baton Rouge Family Fun Fall Guide
    • Halloween in Baton Rouge
  • Family Friendly Mardi Gras Guide
  • Kids Eat Free
  • Baton Rouge Summer Camps Guide
You are here: Home / Archives for Baton Rouge Holiday events

2022 Family Friendly Christmas Events in Baton Rouge and Beyond

November 1, 2022 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Christmas in Baton Rouge is our family’s favorite time of year; there are plenty of family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for a Christmas parade, holiday-themed performance, Santa visit, ice skating, or lights displays, there’s the cornucopia of holiday-themed programs and Christmas events in the Capital City throughout the season.

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.

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. 

This guide will be updated as new events are listed; check back for more Baton Rouge Family Fun!

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE


Santa Rocks the Rowe

DECEMBER 10TH 5-8 PM

Join us on Saturday, December 10 from 5pm-8pm for Perkins Rowe’s annual Santa Rocks the Rowe event! They’ll have paid photos with Santa, live music, face painting, letters to Santa with Baton Rouge Family Fun, games, and more! This event is free and open to the public.


Baton Rouge Zoo’s ZooLights

NOV. 25 – DEC 30 5:30 PM TO 8PM

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.


Creole Christmas + Holiday Fair

NOVEMBER 27TH 12-5 PM

Magnolia Mound Plantation – Creole Christmas is an annual event featuring seasonal decorations in the historic house, traditional songs in French and Spanish sung by local school children, period demonstrations, folk crafts and the annual bonfire to welcome Papa Noel. DATE: Sunday, Nov 27, 2022 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM


Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts

DECEMBER 1ST, 3RD, 4TH, 9TH

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

Chamber Series – Holiday Brass -December 1st
Holiday Brass – Whimsical Alley – December 3rd
Holiday Brass – Houmas House – December 4th
Holiday Brass – Hemingbough – December 9th


2022 Downtown Baton Rouge Festival of Lights

DECEMBER 2ND 4 – 8 PM

Enjoy an evening under downtown’s historic oaks to commemorate Baton Rouge’s oldest holiday tradition. Transforming the winter sky into a wonderland, the Mayor will light North Boulevard with half a million sparkling lights. Experience the magic beneath the 35-foot Christmas tree in Town Square. DATE: FRI 2nd DEC | 4:00PM – 8:00PM


Sensory Santa

DECEMBER 2ND 6-8 PM

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. DATE: Friday, Dec 2, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM


Broadmoor’s Annual Christmas Parade

DECEMBER 3rd 11 AM

Hosted by the Broadmoor Residents’ Association.
Parade rolls promptly at 11:00 am.
• 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 we 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 4TH 10- 5 PM

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! DATE: Sunday,  December 5,  10:00am until 5:30pm


Let it Sneaux Movie in the Park: Perkins Road Community Park

DECEMBER 10TH 1-5 PM

Come and celebrate the holiday season with us! Join us as we celebrate at Let it Sneaux. There will be live entertainment, free photos with Santa, smores, hot chocolate, and so much more! So come out and enjoy a day filled with family fun entertainment. DATE: Friday, Dec 10, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM


2022 Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade

DECEMBER 10TH 5:30PM

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

The Annual Cortana Kiwanis Downtown Christmas Parade will roll through Downtown Baton Rouge on December 10th at 5:30 pm. Every year, more than 70,000 people watch the parade live and thousands more enjoy it on television through the holiday season. The Parade is a celebration and a great way to connect with the community. The parade is open to everyone. Typically the parade includes about 80 entries. These entries are a mix of marching bands, celebrities, dance troupes, non-profit organizations, and local businesses in seasonal themes. DATE: December 10th at 5:30 pm


Ice Skating on the River

DATES: December 16th – January 3rd

One of our family’s favorite Christmas events in Baton Rouge… 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 December 16th. A fun-filled holiday event for all ages, Ice Skating on the River will have 75 minute sessions nearly every day.
DATES: December 16th – January 3rd


The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou

DECEMBER 17TH & 18TH 2 PM & 6 PM

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN BATON ROUGE

Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre’s annual holiday production, The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou is finally returning to the stage in its traditional home, the River Center Theatre of the Performing Arts. It has been three years since the Company has been able to perform on the stage where it feels most comfortable, so our return to live performances on our “home stage” will truly be a celebration! We will again be joined by the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, so don’t miss this magical celebration of the holiday season, where you’ll be enchanted by the beautiful choreography, fun magic, and lush scenery and sets by Nels Anderson.
DATES: December 17-18, 2022 at 2:00 and 6:00 p.m. each day.


36th Annual Christmas in Central Parade

Celebrate Christmas in the City of Central at the 34th Annual Christmas Parade!
From Joor & Hooper to Joor & Lovett
Dates: TBA

Chanukah at the Capitol

DECEMBER 18TH4:30pm

Celebrate Hanukkah with a hot latke bar, menorahs, dreidels, and more hosted by Chabad of Baton Rouge. Children can get their faces painted and play festive games and enjoy strolling performers. The event is free to the public at the steps of the State Capitol.
DATE: December 18th 


Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

Celebration In The Oaks- New Orleans

NOVEMBER 24 – JANUARY 1ST

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 24  – January 1, 2022
(closed December 24th and 31st)


Christmas in the Park (Lafrienere Park)

DECEMBER 2ND – 30TH

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.

The 36th Annual Christmas in the Park will be held nightly at Lafreniere Park beginning on Friday, Dec. 2, -Dec. 30th


NOLA Christmasfest

DECEMBER 21ST – 30TH

NOLA ChristmasFest, a dazzling, family-friendly seasonal event, offers your group the perfect opportunity to get into the holiday spirit, make a little joy, and spread a little cheer. Experience a real indoor ice skating rink, ice slides, carnival rides, Santa and friends, Gingerbread houses, decorated trees and more! Convenient parking nearby. In 2021, this event is open for 12 days (closed on Dec. 23 and 24) with two sessions per day – a morning timed entry and an evening one. Space will be limited for each timeframe so be sure to make your plans early! Tickets go on sale late summer 2021. DATES: December 21ST –  30TH


Kenner’s Heritage Park Christmas Village –

December 2 – December 18

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, Saturday and sunday evening from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm in Kenner’s Heritage Park at 2015 Fourth Street. Admission and parking are free.

Address: 2015 Fourth Street, Kenner, LA


A Dickens of a Christmas– St. Francisville

December 3rd  6:00 PM- 8:00PM

The plantation comes to life during the holidays, as it shows off its seasonal decorations as if it were 1821. Costumed guides accompany the visitor on a trip into the past through the candlelit Oakley House. Take a taste of chestnuts roasting on an open fire, have a cup of wassail or just enjoy the yearly Christmas dance or listen to live period music.


Christmas in the Country St. Francisville

DECEMBER 2, 3, 4

Nothing says Christmas to an excited child more than a parade, especially a safe small-town one like St. Francisville’s popular Christmas in the Country parade the first Saturday each December, complete with marching bands and decorated floats, Santa resplendent in his sleigh. Millions of tiny white lights trace soaring Victorian trimwork and grace gallery posts to transform the entire town into a veritable winter wonderland for Christmas in the Country, as special activities throughout the extensive National Register-listed downtown Historic District provide fun for the whole family at this celebration of the season, a joyful alternative to mall madness. View the full schedule of events here. DATES: DECEMBER 2, 3, 4TH


Noel Acadien au Village – Lafayette

DECEMBER 2 – 23

CHRISTMAS EVENTS

LARC’s Acadian Village hosts its 23 night Christmas festival fundraiser annually in December to benefit LARC, a local 501c(3) non-profit organization benefiting persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Admission is $9.00 for ages 3 and above online,$8 at Acadiana Shop Rite locations & $10.00 at the gate.

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! All proceeds directly benefit LARC’s Acadian Village and the residential, vocational, and community supports and services at LARC. DATES: Dec 2-23, 2021 5:30-9:00


Christmas in the Park. Moncus Park

DECEMBER 16, DECEMBER 17, DECEMBER 18

Christmas in the Park. Moncus Park. 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Celebrate the season with a CHRISTMAS event that will have live music, as well as separate activities for kids. Visit the link for a full live music lineup. MoncusPark.org/Christmas.

Christmas in the Park

Friday, December 16 | Saturday, December 17 | Sunday, December 18

Teddy Bear Tea
Saturday, December 17

Mistletoe & Mystery Brunch
Sunday, December 18

Christmas Movies & Caroling
Wednesday, December 21

DATES: December 16, 17, 18, 21


26th Festival of the Bonfires – St. James Parish

DECEMBER 9, 10, 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


Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights

CHRISTMAS EVENTS Near me

A weekend trip or long day trip with lots of driving along with lots of memories made.

The Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights has existed for nearly 30 years to enhance the holiday experiences for locals, visitors, and group tours. The trail spans I-20 and I-49 in north Louisiana and incorporates Shreveport-Bossier, Minden, Monroe-West Monroe, Natchitoches, and Alexandria/Pineville.

Festivities generally start in mid-November and run through the New Year. Some of the popular and recurring events include shopping/dining/entertainment at the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets in Shreveport-Bossier, Fasching Festival in Minden, shopping and dining in Antique Alley in Monroe-West Monroe, Festival of Lights in Natchitoches and the Christmas parades in Alexandria/Pineville.

The Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights can be experienced in one day or a week with each day totally unique and special. The cities are all within driving distance of one another, making the tour a convenient hour-long trip from any one city to its neighboring city. Visitors are encouraged to see the brilliant lights, dine at the local restaurants, dance at the festivals, shop, and play in all of the eight festive cities. DATES: Begins November 10th


95th Annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival

NOVEMBER 19 -JANUARY 6TH

Named after a Native American tribe, Natchitoches (pronounced Nack-a-tish ) is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase Territory. Since 1927, they are home to one of the oldest community-based holiday celebrations in the country. Starting as a one-day festival, the Natchitoches Christmas Festival has evolved into a six-week long Christmas Season. The Christmas Season begins on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and concludes on January the 6th, the Epiphany. Over 300,000 lights and 100 plus set pieces are on display every night at dusk. Celebrate the Christmas season in Louisiana’s oldest city. Enjoy our daylong festival filled with music, entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors, and our famous firework show choreographed to holiday music over Cane River Lake. DATES: November 20th to January 6th


Christmas in the Park – Dark Woods Adventure Park

Christmas Events

Dark Woods Adventure Park is pleased to announce the Holiday dates and times for our Dark Woods’ Christmas In The Park special event.
From strolling the woods twinkling with light displays to sitting next to a fire-pit and making s’mores discover what makes Christmas in the Park an environment that is filled with love, family, and a true Christmas spirit that is truly in the heart of Natchitoches Parish. DATES: Open Select Nights November 26th – December 25th

 

Our Christmas events in Baton Rouge guide will be updated as new events are listed; check back for more Baton Rouge Family Fun! If we’ve missed an event, please email us and we will get it added asap! 

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

You may also want to check out our Christmas Lights Guide!

 

 

Filed Under: Celebrate, Events, Family Friendly Baton Rouge Tagged With: Baton rouge Christmas Events, Baton Rouge Holiday events, Family Friendly Christmas, Holiday events, Things to do, Things to do in Baton Rouge, things to do with kids in Baton Rouge

2015 Baton Rouge Holiday Events Guide: Sponsored by Associates in Pediatric Dentistry

October 31, 2015 by Baton Rouge Family Fun

Thanks to Associates in Pediatric Dentistry for sponsoring the Holiday Events Guide.PARENTS AND SIBLINGS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME IN OUR CLINIC AREA.

Our 2015 guide is our largest guide to date with over 40 events.  This list will be updated daily as we learn of new events being hosted in our area. We’re sharing events within a 60 mile radius of Baton Rouge. Be sure to print out your Holiday Bucket List and fill it up with memory making fun, a great activity to do with the kids!

Whether you’re looking for a Christmas parade, holiday-themed performance, Santa visit, or lights display, there’s the cornucopia of Baton Rouge holiday events this year. If you have something to add, please leave it in the comments below.

 

Get your 2015 Baton Rouge Holiday Events HERE in PDF form for easy viewing!
Click the Print button at the bottom of the guide to print or email the guide to yourself or a friend!

 Baton Rouge Holiday Guide 2015

LSU Holiday Spectacular

LSU Holiday Spectacular

Celebrate the season at LSU Holiday Spectacular Tuesday, December 1, with festivities beginning at 5 p.m. in the LSU Student Union.

Christmas Tree Lighting in Free Speech Circle located on LSU’s campus. This event is FREE to the public and CC’s Streetside Café will be giving out FREE hot chocolate and medium roast coffee!

Holiday Performances
5 p.m. | LSU Student Union Theater
Featuring performances from LSU students, faculty & community organizations.

LSU Christmas Tree Lighting
6 p.m. | Free Speech Circle

Benjamin Britten’s “Ceremony of Carols” Concert
featuring LSU Women’s Chorale with the St. James Treble Choir
7:30 p.m. | St. Alban’s Chapel, Highland Road at Dalrymple Drive

Cortana Kiwanis Christmas Parade

Baton Rouge Christmas Parade CortanaDECEMBER 12th – Find Parade Map HERE.

The 64th Annual Cortana Kiwanis Downtown Christmas Parade will roll through Downtown Baton Rouge Saturday, December 12th at 5:30 p.m. Every year, more than 70,000 people watch the parade live and thousands more enjoy it on television through the holiday season. The Parade is a celebration and a great way to connect with the community. The parade is open to everyone. Typically the parade includes about 80 entries. These entries are a mix of marching bands, celebrities, dance troups, non-profit organizations, and local businesses in seasonal themes.


ZooLights 2015

November 27 – December 30
Beginning November 27, visitors will enjoy the lights and displays of all your favorite Zoo animals and holiday traditions. Walk through the Zoo and be amazed by larger-than-life light displays. Bring the whole family and get in the holiday spirit of the season. Hot cocoa and other treats will be available to purchase.

ZooLights will take place November 27 – December 30 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). For more information, call 225.775.3877.

ZooLights 2015 Baton RougeSpecial Activities:
November 27: Coca-Cola Truck @ ZooLights
November 27: Ornament Decorating
November 28: Ornament Decorating
December 4: Pictures with Safari Santa
December 5: Pictures with Safari Santa
December 11: Art Gone Wild Exhibit
December 12: Art Gone Wild Exhibit
December 13: Art Gone Wild Exhibit
December 18: Pictures with Safari Santa
December 19: Pictures with Safari Santa
December 26: Ornament Decorating


A Rural Life Christmas Baton Rouge

 

A Rural Life Christmas

A Rural Life Christmas Baton RougeDecember 6
12:30pm until 6:30pm

Ring in the Christmas season with a 19th century Louisiana celebration. Musical groups, demonstrating artisans, storytellers, and costumed re-enactors will be present to set the holiday mood. The event will conclude with a bonfire and a visit from Papa Noel.

Regular fee for adults and seniors; children under 10 are free.


Ice Skating Baton Rouge on The RiverHoliday Skating on the River

It might not get snow in Baton Rouge, but you can still have fun on the ice at the Baton Rouge River Center with its holiday tradition, “Ice Skating on the River.”

This holiday tradition will kick off the ice skating season on Friday, December 18, 2015.  A fun filled holiday event for all ages, Ice Skating on the River will have 75 minute sessions nearly every day until January 3, 2016. Tickets are on sale now at $12 per person with special group pricing for parties over ten people.  Birthday packages are also available for Ice Skating on the River. For more information about group or birthday packages, please call 225-389-3030.

 

 

Baton Rouge Downtown Festival of Lights

Festival of Lights

December 4th

5:00pm – 8:00pm – Join an evening under downtown’s historic oaks to commemorate Baton Rouge’s oldest holiday tradition. Transforming the winter sky into a wonderland, the Mayor will light North Boulevard with half a million sparkling lights. Experience the magic beneath the 35-foot Christmas tree in Town Square. Bethlehem Village with a real life village set in Biblical times where children can craft ornaments and decorations, plus a magical train ride on the Mansion Express at the Old Governor’s Mansion. Visit Santa’s Gift Shoppe and listen to holiday music during an evening of visual, culinary, and performing arts.


LASM Holiday Events

December 6th

Special Holiday First Sunday
Sunday, December 6th| 1-4 PM
Holiday Ornament Workshop: 1-3 PM
Santa Claus & the Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan: 1-4 PM
Let It Snow: 3PM

Visit LASM for a special day of holiday activities! Get creative while participating in the annual holiday ornament workshop, where you and your family can make small seasonal decorations to cherish for years to come. The famous Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan will also stop outside LASM, bringing along a special guest – Santa Claus! Be sure to have your wish list handy when you meet Santa, who will be giving out candy canes as well. Not only are these activities free, but you can additionally enjoy free admission to explore all of LASM’s galleries and a reduced admission of $5 for adults and $4 for children and seniors to the planetarium shows – including the new holiday music show Let It Snow.


The Nutcracker : A Tale from the Bayou

The Nutcracker: A Tale from the BayouDecember 19th – 201th

The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou, created by Molly Buchmann and Sharon Mathews in 1992, has become one of the most highly-anticipated events of the holiday season. Accompanied by the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, the production incorporates local landmarks while maintaining the grandeur and integrity of the classic ballet. This lavish production continues to thrill children and adults alike, and snow is always guaranteed!


A Charlie Brown Christmas

A Charlie Brown Christmas Playmakers of Baton RougeDecember 11-20 

The classic animated television special comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation where Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the other Peanuts grapple with the real meaning of Christmas.

Tickets are $20 for Adults and $15 for Children (ages 2 – 11) and can be purchased at PlaymakersBR.org.  (225) 578-6996.


The Living Nativity  

December 11th & 12thDecember 11th & 12th

The 5th Annual Drive Through Live Nativity takes place on the parking lot of FBBC. Load up your family and journey back to the first Christmas as represented through 12 different scenes. December 11th & 12th 7-9 PM


Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra ChristmasThis years holiday BRSO events will include:

  • Christmas Brass at Hemingbough December 6 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm, In Central – December 8 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm, In Plaquemine – December 9 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Home for the Holidays  December 4th & 6th – The Holiday Season would not be complete without the Family Pops annual Home for the Holidays concert! Join Maestro Muffitt as he leads this spectacular cast of hundreds featuring our very own Baton Rouge Symphony Chorus, and numerous guest performers and musical groups from across our city.  Join us in a musical celebration of community and the spirit of the season.

Manship Theatre Holiday Events

  • The Shoemaker and the Christmas Elves – Two Christmas Elves are sent to work for a poor cobbler until he does something nice for them. When he does, the elves will become true Christmas Elves and be sent to work for Santa at the North Pole. Multiple dates in December.
  • The Muppet Christmas Carol – December 20th

 Kansas City Southern Holiday Express Train

Kansas City Southern Holiday ExpressNovember 27th – Sadly, the KCS Holiday Express will not be making a stop in Baton Rouge. He will however be roughly 2 hours away in DeRidder, LA if you would like to make a day trip out of it. Meet Santa and receive a holiday treat bag! For more information, download the Kansas City Southern Holiday Express Train app from the iTunes store.

At each scheduled stop, The KCS Charitable Fund makes a contribution of gift cards to the local Salvation Army to provide warm clothing and other necessities for children in need. Over the past 11 years, thanks to the generous contributions of KCS’ employees, vendors and friends, the Holiday Express has donated over $1 million in gift cards to this cause.


Reflections of the Season – West Baton Rouge

Get into the Holiday Spirit at the Reflections of the Season Christmas Light Display.
This walk or drive through display is open to the public from December 3th – December 24th, Thursdays through Sundays. Closed Monday through Wednesday. For just $1.00 per person drive through the grounds of the West Baton Rouge Conference Center and view the spectacular lights.
Thursday through Sunday nights come inside to visit “Trevor” the talking singing reindeer. Walk through the holiday decorated rooms. Enjoy carnival rides for the children or buy those last minute gifts from our crafters. Take your holiday pictures with Santa and his elves.

reflections of the season west baton rougeSpecial activities:
FRIDAY NIGHTS ONLY: 6:00 – 8:30 Human Snow Globe. Free with gate ticket. (Photographer on site, pictures available to purchase.)

Cuddle up in a blanket next to your friends and loved ones and take a ride through the lights in a mule or horse drawn wagon for $2.00 per person.

Dec. 5th & 12th there will be ice fishing from 6:00 – 8:00 pm, $3.00 per child for 10 minutes.

Dec. 12th – Children’s Craft Night from 6:00 – 8:00 pm

Dec. 19th Have some cool fun in the snow from 6:00 – 8:00 pm!! Snow Patch is $5.00 per person.

Bring your family and friends and make West Baton Rouge and “Reflections of the Season” part of your Christmas tradition.


50th Anniversary of A Charlie Brown Christmas

Charlie Brown Baton RougeExhibit opens November 21, 2015 at the West Baton Rouge Museum

Port Allen:  In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the beloved Peanuts animated tale, A Charlie Brown Christmas, the West Baton Rouge Museum will host the exhibition The 50th Anniversary of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” .  The exhibit opens Saturday, November 21, 2015 and runs through January 3, 2016.

The first of over forty Peanuts television specials, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” is the longest running cartoon special in history. It has continued to air every December since its debut 50 years ago. It is a holiday favorite for countless families and an icon of American pop culture.

The exhibit will feature artwork and creations by the talented artists and illustrators of the Baton Rouge Cartoonist Society.  Peanuts items and artifacts on loan from local visitors will also be on display.  Visit the museum to enjoy this exhibit and watch the animated film, A Charlie Brown Christmas with a cup of cocoa Sundays at 2:30pm, November 29, December 6, December 13, December 20, December 27 and January 3.


Strands Christmas Tea TBA

Strands Baton Rouge Christmas Tea

 


Holiday Events Beyond Baton Rouge

Notaway-Mansion-Christmas-

Nottaway’s Christmas Tree Lighting Festival – White Castle

Friday December 11th from 5 pm to 9:30pm: Holidays at Nottaway Plantation are absolutely breathtaking! Live music includes The Navy Band New Orleans Ceremonial Band, Church choirs will be performing throughout the grounds and food and Beverage stations will be open. Enjoy the Hand Bell Choir, Tree Lighting Ceremony, Fireworks on the Levee and Santas arrival. Bring your camera and take photos of your kids with Santa on the front balcony of the Mansion!

BONFIRES ON THE LEVEE / TREE LIGHTING – Friday, December 11

BONFIRES ON THE LEVEE / TREE LIGHTING - Friday, December 11


Oak Alley Plantation’s Annual Christmas Bonfire Party

December 5th- 7pm – Midnight  This year marks the 40th anniversary of this joyous event at Oak Alley. Celebrate the Christmas Season in one of the southland’s most beautiful settings. The mansion will be dressed in fresh fruit, greenery and seasonal floral arrangements, reminiscent of Creole Christmases past. Delicious Cajun/Creole buffet, open bar, lively dance band, and plenty of good cheer combine to heighten the holiday spirit throughout the famous alley of oaks and the lovely antebellum mansion.


Celebration In The Oaks- New Olreans

Celebration In The Oaks- New Olreans

The 2015-2016 season:
November 27 – January 2
Closed: 11/30 – 12/3, 12/24, and 12/31
Sunday – Thursday : 6pm -10pm
Friday & Saturday: 6pm -11pm
Last entry to event is 20 minutes prior to closing.

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.


Family Preview Party – New Orleans

November 22nd – Kids get the royal holiday treatment at their own Celebration in the Oaks Preview Party and – bonus! – mom and dad can enjoy this family experience without lifting a finger. Your little ones will feel like the kings and queens of the ball at this fun-filled party.

And special this year at the Celebration in the Oaks Family Party – we’ll have the characters from FROZEN! That’s right, Princess Anna, Queen Elsa, Kristoff and the lovable Olaf. They’ll be walking around and will be ready to take photos with the kids (and those who are kids at heart, too). Don’t forget your camera.

New Orleans Christmas


Krewe of Jingle Parade & More! – New Orleans – TBA

New Orleans’ official holiday parade, the “Krewe of Jingle,” will once again delight locals and visitors alike with authentic parade floats, marching bands, stilt walkers, Christmas characters and many more magical surprises!


A Civil War Christmas- – St. Francisville

December 5th & 6th
Visitors will see a recreation of the sights and sounds of St. Francisville in 1864 during the American Civil War. Throughout the day walk through the soldiers camps and see Living History demonstrations of soldier life. You will hear black powder weapon demonstrations of both rifle and cannons. Each day will feature a small reenactment of the October 1864 Battle Oakley Plantation which happened across the grounds of the park. On Saturday night the plantation comes to life during the Holidays as it shows off its seasonal decorations. Costumed guides accompany the visitor in a trip into the past through the candlelit Oakley House. See the glow of the blacksmith at work, take a taste of what’s cooking in the kitchen, or just enjoy the live period music. Included is our yearly Christmas dance and hot Christmas Punch. The program is free to all paying the park admission fee. For more information please contact Audubon State Historic Site in St. Francisville, La. at 1-225-635-3739.


Christmas in the Country St. Francisville

December 4, 5 and 6
– Nothing says Christmas to an excited child more than a parade, especially a safe small-town one like St. Francisville’s popular Christmas in the Country parade the first Saturday each December, complete with marching bands and decorated floats, Santa resplendent in his sleigh. Millions of tiny white lights trace soaring Victorian trimwork and grace gallery posts to transform the entire town into a veritable winter wonderland for Christmas in the Country, as special activities throughout the extensive National Register-listed downtown Historic District provide fun for the whole family at this celebration of the season, a joyful alternative to mall madness. View the full schedule of events here.


Christmas in the Village – Zachary

Zachary's Christmas in the Village

November 28 – December 23, 2015  ~  5:30-9:00pm Nightly (weather permitting)  THe Christmas village will have 5 TONS OF SNOW coming to town, and will welcome Anna, Elsa and Olaf Characters from the Frozen Movie. They will also debut a spectacular Christmas Animated Light Show! They will have Gourmet Food Trucks, lots of music, dance and entertainment as well an arts and crafts market that is going to be amazing! BREC will be airing the Frozen Movie on the big portable screen! It will be a wonderful “FROZEN” night!


Denham Springs Christmas Parade

Annual Zachary Christmas Parade

Main Street, Zachary – December 12th 10:00am Celebrate the sights and sounds of Christmas in Zachary. Enjoy this annual parade in the heart of town.

Denham Springs Christmas Parade

December 12th at 2:00pm Denham Springs Christmas Parade – Parade begins at Denham Springs High School and travels down Range Ave. through the Antique District turning right onto Florida Blvd. and ending at Veterans Blvd.


Noel Acadien au Village 2014 “A Blue Christmas” – Lafayette

LARC’s Acadian Village

LARC’s Acadian Village hosts its 25-night Christmas festival fundraiser annually in December to benefit LARC, a local 501c(3) non-profit organization benefiting persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

Noel Acadien au Village features half-a-million lights, including the fully lit Open Door Chapel, themed Acadian home porches, lighted holiday displays, live entertainment, carnival rides, local cuisine, photos with Santa, holiday shopping in the Christmas Store & The Village Art Gallery, and much more! Displays include themed acadian homes, lighted grounds, Santa’s Sleigh, floating oil rigs, The Gingerbread House, and The Christmas Carolers.


25th Festival of the Bonfires – St. James Parish

TBA  Enjoy 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! Experience a prelude to the famous Christmas Eve Bonfires: A tradition unique to St. James Parish and all the world!!


Christmas Past Festival: Old Mandeville

Christmas Past Festival December 12th, 9 am-3 pm

The Christmas Past street festival is packed with over 40 vendors lining Girod Street.  The festival will extend from near the Mandeville Trailhead complex and continue down to the lakefront.  Keeping with an international season theme, each block will highlight a different region: Germany, England, France, Louisiana, and America.  For maps and the program of events,  please visit their Christmas Past Festival Facebook Page.


Christmas Under the Stars – Slidell

December 4th, 5th, 11th, and 12th from 5 to 9 p.m.
The City of Slidell is celebrating the holiday season with Christmas Under the Stars, the city’s 28th annual celebration of twinkling lights, festive decorations, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, live entertainment, the Parade of Trees, the return of the newly revamped Christmas Train and Village Display, Slidell Movie Nights and much more. Admission is free.


7th Annual “Christmas at TerraBella”

Sunday, December 6, 2015 3pm-6pm

Join the community as they celebrate the spirit of the season and experience the magic of Christmas. Enjoy live holiday music from local talent, hot chocolate, Christmas crafts, write letters to Santa, and ride the TerraBella Express. Special appearance from Santa Clause to greet and consult with children about their wish lists. Complementary and festive holiday event all children are sure to love. For more information email: laura@terrabellavillage.com or call 985-871-7171


Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights

 Louisiana Holiday Trail of LightsThis would be another option for a day trip and lots of driving along with lots of memories made, this would make a great trip for those with older children.

The Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights has existed for nearly 30 years to enhance the holiday experiences for locals, visitors and group tours. The trail spans I-20 and I-49 in north Louisiana and incorporates Shreveport-Bossier, Minden, Monroe-West Monroe, Natchitoches, and Alexandria/Pineville.

Festivities generally start in mid-November and run through the New Year. Some of the popular and recurring events include shopping/dining/entertainment at the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets in Shreveport-Bossier, Fasching Festival in Minden, shopping and dining in Antique Alley in Monroe-West Monroe, Festival of Lights in Natchitoches and the Christmas parades in Alexandria/Pineville.

The Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights can be experienced in one day or a week with each day totally unique and special. The cities are all within driving distance of one another, making the tour a convenient hour-long trip from any one city to its neighboring city. Visitors are encouraged to see the brilliant lights, dine at the local restaurants, dance at the festivals, shop, and play in all of the eight festive cities.

Facebook Holiday Events Guide

This is a comprehensive round-up of Family Friendly Holiday events & activities in Baton Rouge & beyond to make it easy for Baton Rouge families to find things to do this Christmas season, we hope you enjoy it! Be sure to click  “GOING” on the Event Page to receive updates on Baton Rouge area holiday events and activities! We will update the list daily and welcome the community to list events as well!

Baton Rouge Christmas

Be sure to print out your free bucket list to fill out with the kids!

FIND US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM  for more community info, news and encouragement!

Filed Under: Baton Rouge Resources, Family Friendly Baton Rouge, Holidays, Local Business Spotlight, Louisiana Tagged With: Baton Rouge Holiday events, Baton rouge to do Christmas, Christmas, Holiday Guide

Baton Rouge Library Press Start

Search Baton Rouge Family Fun

Copyright © 2023 · News Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in