If you’re looking for a holiday season infused with pure magic, let New Orleans pull you in with her southern charm! As the city’s historic streets and grand homes come alive with twinkling lights, lush greenery, and festive decorations, the Big Easy becomes the perfect destination to soak up some holiday spirit… or spirits!
From holiday home tours that showcase the architectural beauty of the city to iconic New Orleans holiday cocktails that warm you up from the inside out, you’ll have an endless list of memories to make this holiday season.
Step into New Orleans’ Festive History
One of the lesser known highlights of the holiday season in New Orleans is the chance to explore some of the city’s most historic homes decked out in their holiday finest.
Wreaths, lights, and garlands adorn the historic facades in the French Quarter and Garden District, while interiors are transformed with Christmas trees, holiday tablescapes, and festive floral arrangements. Docents often share stories of the homes’ history and unique architecture, providing a peek into New Orleans’ storied past. Local musicians also participate each year, providing a festive atmosphere at the homes as you take in the sights.
These holiday tours are organized by Preservation Resource Center and Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré. This year’s Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré self-guided tours will take place on December 22, 2024. When online ticket sales open, they can be purchased on the Patio Planters website or in-person day-of at The Cabildo at 701 Chartres in the French Quarter.
This year’s Preservation Resource Center tours will take place December 14-15, 2024, and tickets are on sale now. Proceeds from tour ticket sales are used to “protect the historic architecture, neighborhoods, and cultural identity of New Orleans.”
If your visit to the Big Easy coincides with the annual Preservation Resource Center Patron Party on December 7, consider mingling with the locals at a true New Orleans soirée! Tickets for the Patron Party may be purchased here.
Sip on Festive Spirits
Once you’ve experienced the Big Easy’s holiday home tours, kick back and relax with a festive spirit or two! No New Orleans holiday experience is complete without indulging in some of the city’s iconic seasonal cocktails. Known for its love of good food and drink, the city has a long history of spirits that perfectly complement the cozy, joyful spirit of the season. Add a little warmth and sweetness to your holiday celebrations with these three must-try beverages: The Grasshopper, Creole Eggnog, and Café Brûlot.
The Grasshopper is a classic New Orleans cocktail born at Tujague’s, one of the city’s oldest bars, in the 1910s. The Grasshopper is a rich, creamy blend of green crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream. It’s sweet, minty, and festive with a hint of chocolate. Bright green in color, it’s both delicious and visually fitting for the season. Whether enjoyed as a holiday dessert drink or as a treat after a night of touring the town, the Grasshopper is a holiday classic that should not be missed.
Eggnog is a holiday staple across the country, but in New Orleans, it takes on a Southern twist. Creole Eggnog is typically made with a good dose of bourbon or dark rum, giving it a rich, warming quality that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Some variations add brandy or even a little bit of Southern Comfort. Look for it at classic New Orleans bars, where bartenders serve up eggnog that’s made in-house and often topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon. It’s creamy, indulgent, and a true taste of Southern hospitality during the holidays.
Last, but certainly not least, try the famous Café Brûlot, a New Orleans holiday tradition that dates back to the 19th century and is as much a performance as it is a drink. Made with strong coffee, brandy, cloves, and orange peel, this drink is prepared tableside and is often set ablaze to caramelize the flavors and add a little flair. Café Brûlot is typically served at the end of a holiday meal at classic New Orleans restaurants like Antoine’s or Galatoire’s, where it’s poured ceremoniously and shared among friends and family. With its warm spices and bold flavor, Café Brûlot is a delightful way to experience New Orleans’ festive spirit.
And when your explorations are finished and you’re ready to kick back and relax in modern comforts, the Lanaux Mansion’s suites are ready for you! Festively decorated for the season and perfect for traveling couples, families, and friends, we’ll ensure a historic, holiday ambiance unlike any other. Make your reservation today, and if you have any questions about our suites or offerings, reach out to our team at (504) 948-6119 or lanaux547@gmail.com.
