New Orleans does things differently than just about any city. So why would Christmas be any different?
Christmas in New Orleans is like no other - the lights, the decorations, and the traditions. In a word - it's magical!
Join Free Tours by Foot for a holiday waltz through the French Quarter, as we explore the history and traditions of Creole Christmas past and present.
Click the image to watch a virtual version of the tour.
Learn the history of Papa Noel, Revellion Dinners, and the origins of the Carnival Season, all while enjoying the sights, sounds, and lights of the Vieux Carre.
This tour is part French Quarter history and sights and part holiday spirit.
On this tour, you will learn about the Papa Noel story, traditional Catholic-Creole Christmas observations, and Christmas bonfires.
You will also learn what makes a Creole Christmas decoration, what constitutes a Revellion dinner, and finish off with the option to enjoy a holiday spirit.
This tour is also a history tour of the French Quarter.
You will hear many non-Christmas related stories, learn about the distinct French Quarter architecture, the many traditions of the area, as well as hear about its general history.
Sights we cover on the tour:
- Jackson Square
- St Louis Cathedral
- Stroll down Decatur St
- Santa's Quarters - shop on Decatur dedicated to Christmas 12 months a year
- Ursuline Convent
- Beauregard Keyes House
- Gallier House
- Antoine's Restaurant
- Hotel Monteleone
- and much more.
TIP: The French Quarter tour is the perfect tour to learn about the architecture and history of New Orleans's most distinctive neighborhood.
The Christmas/Holiday tour is specific to the season and discusses the holiday traditions of Louisiana and views seasonal decorations in the French Quarter.
We recommend guests do both of these tours as they discuss widely different topics and go to different locations in the French Quarter.
Tour information
Reservations: REQUIRED. Click here to reserve. Groups of 10 or more persons should visit our group inquiry page.
Where: Meet on the steps at St. Louis Cathedral. Look for your guide with the Free Tours by Foot logo.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours. Approximately 1 mile in length.
When: @ 7 pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays (Dec 9 - Dec 30)
Cost: name-your-own-price tour.
Groups of 6-9 must prepay $10/person. Groups of 10 or more must organize a private tour and can read about our options for groups.
Save more money in New Orleans with a tourist discount pass and consider a swamp tour and a plantation tour.