Community gatherings and celebrations aren't limited to Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Post-Katrina New Orleans still boasts a festive town filled with lights, carols and food unlike any other city in the world. There are many children's activities to enjoy during the Christmas season that are considered New Orleans traditions.
Set on world famous Canal Street, Celebration in the Oaks decorates the towering oak trees lining the streets. The lighting doesn't stop with the majestic trees; it extends to anything and everything that will hold a light. Mr. Bingle, a two-story snowman, presides over the celebration as a laser light show is presented nightly. Kids can enjoy the lights while they wait in line to tell Santa what they want for Christmas.
Caroling in Jackson Square is a tradition that has been going on for more than 60 years. Everyone is welcome to join, with candles and song sheets handed out as you enter the square. The caroling is led by Patio Planters, the Social and Garden Club of the French Quarter. This is a free event that children love to join, singing some favorite Christmas carols and learning new ones.
Christmas just isn't Christmas without a gingerbread house. The Louisiana Children's Museum goes further with an entire gingerbread world called Gingerbread Junction. For most of the month of December, kids can enjoy creating gingerbread houses. There are other crafts related to the holidays at the museum for kids to enjoy, as well as an educational display, "Holiday Traditions Around the World," where children can see the ways Christmas is celebrated in different parts of the globe.
The Sheraton New Orleans has an annual event called Cajun Cringle Mingle, where kids can enjoy an interactive theater and puppet show. Young people enjoy hot chocolate with whipped cream and parents drink eggnog while watching the shows, listening to carols or doing crafts. Reservations are required for this event, and there is an entrance fee.
