Discover the enchanting holiday spirit, New Orleans Style

Friday, December 1, 2023

Prepare to be immersed in the festive spirit as French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) and New Orleans & Company proudly present the 39th annual Holidays New Orleans Style (HNOS), a cherished tradition dating back to 1985. Running from November 6 with the decoration of Jackson Square and continuing through Twelfth Night, January 6, 2024, this holiday season promises an unforgettable celebration filled with:

Réveillon Feasts: Indulge in the city’s most sumptuous Réveillon dining menus and crafted cocktails at more than 40 of the city’s top restaurants.

Vibrant Events: Dive into 60+ special holiday events, including free concerts produced by FQFI, designed for the whole family.

Papa Noël Discounts: Choose from over 40 hotels offering special Papa Noël nightly rates and complimentary add-ons.

Shopping Guide: Explore local shops for unique gifts with our exclusive shopping guide.

“Our city’s unique cultural charm shines throughout the year,” said Emily Madero, FQFI President and CEO. “Each year we are excited to celebrate the holiday season with so many delicious Réveillon dining menus, events for the whole family, Papa Noël hotel specials, and shopping deals throughout the city. As we reach nearly four decades of this treasured tradition, we invite our friends and family from near and far to join us for an unforgettable Holidays New Orleans Style season.”

Mayor LaToya Cantrell expressed, “The energy of our city, especially during the holiday season, is unmatched. We are excited to kick off holiday celebrations across our city with signature celebrations that pay tribute to our distinct culture and traditions. From The Nutcracker to parades and illuminating gatherings, New Orleans offers a holiday experience unlike any other, ensuring there’s something enjoyable for all ages. This magical season provides the perfect occasion to come together with loved ones, spreading joy while also supporting our local small businesses. Please join us in spreading warmth and cheer during this holiday season.”

“It is an honor to once again partner with French Quarter Festivals, Inc. in bringing so much color, flavor, and excitement to our city for residents and visitors alike,” said Mark Romig, Sr. Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, New Orleans & Company. “In a season filled with gift-giving, this is a gift especially for all those that make the hospitality industry vital, and the offerings throughout the holidays just get better and better with each passing year.”

This year, the city lights up with festive decorations and non-stop entertainment. Our youngest holiday-goers can enjoy events such as the Holiday Tea Party’s at BK Historic House & Gardens, The Roosevelt Hotel, and BB’s Stage Door Canteen at the WWII Museum. The Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade and NOLA ChristmasFest return with fun for the whole family. And events like Luna Fête and Greenway SuperNova will light up the night. History-lovers can revel in the beauty and extravagance of decorated home and garden tours throughout the Historic French Quarter. The sounds of the season will fill St. Louis Cathedral and Ashé Powerhouse Theater during FQFI’s concert series with thirteen free performances including Irma Thomas, Charlie Gabriel, and more. As the weeks continue, the excitement builds with opportunities for Hotel Hopping for the Holidays, Caroling in Jackson Square, and the Official NOLA New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display.

Daily activities are planned, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy dining, shopping, and culture throughout the season for all ages. Our youngest holiday-goers can enjoy events such as the Holiday Tea Party and NOLA ChristmasFest. Welcomed newcomers like the Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade and the St. Nick Celebration are fun for the whole family. And events like Luna Fête and Celebration in the Oaks return to light up the nights. History-lovers can revel in the beauty and extravagance of decorated home and garden tours throughout the Historic French Quarter. The sounds of the season will fill St. Louis Cathedral and St. Anna’s Episcopal Church during FQFI’s concert series with thirteen free performances including John Boutté, Rachel Van Vorhees and more. As the weeks continue, the excitement builds with opportunities for Hotel Hopping for the Holidays and Big Night New Orleans on New Year’s Eve.

For 30 years, FQFI has decorated Jackson Square to brighten the spirits of locals and visitors. The Square has once again been transformed into a scene fit for a postcard with nearly 70 of its famous red bows for the holidays thanks to sponsorship support from French Market Corporation (FMC). Visitors to the Square are encouraged to stop at the front gates of the Square near the River with their special someone and share a kiss under the mistletoe. FQFI and FMC welcome all to enjoy the festive atmosphere of Jackson Square and the entire French Quarter neighborhood throughout December.

Free Concerts at St. Louis Cathedral and Ashé Powerhouse Theater

Holidays New Orleans Style celebrates New Orleans’ rich musical heritage with jazz musicians, gospel choirs, classical ensembles, and others performing the sounds of the season with nearly three weeks of live concerts. Concerts at St. Louis Cathedral located in Jackson Square take place at 6 pm on December 3, 4, 6, 10, 11, 13, 17, 18 and 20, and include Irma Thomas Sings for the Holidays, Benny Grunch & the Bunch, Josh Kagler and Harmonistic Praise Crusade, a special Christmas Concert at 5:30 pm on December 17, and more. Concerts at Ashé Powerhouse Theater take place at 6 pm on Thursday, December 7, 14 and 21, and include Erica Falls, Alexey Marti & Cuban Afrogumbo, and Big Chief Donald Harrison with special guest, Deezle. All concerts are free and open to the public. Start planning your concert schedule [here](insert link).

Réveillon Dinners

Réveillon, an adaptation of a traditional Creole holiday dining custom, will be celebrated nightly in over 40 restaurants throughout the city beginning December 1st. Réveillon menus are offered only once a year, making HNOS the only time guests can enjoy this authentic taste of New Orleans. Menus showcase the feasts of Christmas past with Traditional Réveillon menus at Arnaud’s and Sylvain; present, and future with Contemporary Réveillon menus that encourage innovative ingredients and techniques at Costera and Jewel of the South and The Grill Room. Prepare your tastebuds with a full list of menus [here](insert link).

Réveillon on the Rocks

The Réveillon dinner has been celebrated in homes and restaurants all over New Orleans since the 1850s. Local bartenders also capture the spirit of Réveillon, one-sip-at-a-time, with festive cocktails. Beginning December 1st and continuing until the last toast on New Year’s Eve, and at some spots lasting through Twelfth Night (January 6th), bars and restaurants will say “Cheers to the Holiday Season!” Enjoy special crafted cocktails like ‘Twas the Night at Dickie Brenna’s Steakhouse or the Holly Berry Martini at Commander’s Palace and many more.

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