The 4 Best Christmas Experiences & Tours in New Orleans
New Orleans during Christmas transforms into a spectacle of lights, music, and tradition. Its historic French Quarter, decorated balconies, and lively atmosphere make it a perfect backdrop for holiday celebrations. Unlike typical winter destinations, New Orleans offers a unique blend of culture, festive sights, and local traditions—all infused with the city’s signature jazz and Cajun flavor. Whether you want to cruise the bayou decked out in holiday lights or explore decorated streets with a drink in hand, New Orleans provides memorable ways to celebrate Christmas that go beyond the usual.
The city’s vivid nightlife, historic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods turn into holiday scenes that are both charming and lively. This list features four top holiday experiences, each bringing a different flavor of New Orleans Christmas to life—whether that’s through a scenic boat ride, a walking tour of the French Quarter, or a festive riverfront adventure. These tours have been selected for their authentic local feel, compelling stories, and fun atmospheres.
1. Bayou Booze Cruise Near New Orleans
At number 1, the Bayou Booze Cruise offers an exciting way to enjoy holiday lights, wildlife spotting, and local drinks all at once. Starting at Reels Restaurant & Bar, you can grab dinner or a drink before embarking on your 1-2 hour party boat experience. The boat is decorated with lights, and you’ll cruise down the bayou with music, commercial spotlights, and opportunities to see alligators and other wildlife swimming nearby.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of authentic bayou scenery and lively entertainment. You’ll stop at the Tchefuncte River Light Station, a haunted lighthouse that activates at night, adding a spooky touch to your holiday adventure. Then, enjoy a 45-minute stop at T Rivers Bar & Grill, where you can play bar games, sip drinks, and soak up local nightlife. The final highlight is a 20-minute cruise spotting gators’ reflective eyes with spotlights—an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
With a 5-star rating and rave reviews emphasizing fun, good music, and drinks, this cruise is perfect for those looking for a festive, lively outing. The value for $55 per person is excellent considering the unique mix of scenery and entertainment. It’s especially suited for groups wanting a memorable party atmosphere with a dash of wildlife adventure.
Bottom Line: A lively, fun-filled cruise combining wildlife, local drinks, and holiday lights—great for groups wanting to celebrate with a bit of everything.
2. New Orleans French Quarter: Seasonal Christmas Tour
At number 2, the French Quarter Christmas Tour delivers a classic New Orleans holiday experience. For about 1-2 hours, your guide will lead you past dazzling light displays, decorated balconies, and historic homes that sparkle during the festive season. As you stroll through this iconic neighborhood, you’ll learn about local traditions, ghost stories, and the history that makes New Orleans’ holiday spirit so special.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local culture and history, combined with plenty of chances to stop at bars and enjoy drinks on the go. Visitors appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to see Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and other landmarks beautifully lit up for the holidays. It’s also a flexible experience, with the guide offering insights that appeal to families, history buffs, and holiday lovers alike.
While the overall rating is 3.5 stars based on limited reviews, travelers mention that the tour is a lovely way to explore the French Quarter’s holiday decor and learn about local Christmas traditions. It’s suitable for those who want a laid-back tour with a mix of sightseeing and socializing, especially with the option to enjoy a drink during the walk.
Bottom Line: A cozy, informative stroll through the French Quarter with holiday lights, historic tales, and bar stops—ideal for those wanting a relaxed, festive experience.
3. Christmas NOLA Style Walking Tour
At number 3, the Christmas NOLA Style Walking Tour focuses on the spectacular holiday decorations and local traditions of the French Quarter. Lasting about 1-2 hours, this tour takes you through decked-out streets, historic sites, and lively squares such as Jackson Square and the surroundings of St. Louis Cathedral.
What makes this tour distinct is its emphasis on visual beauty and storytelling. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll see festive iron balconies, streetcars, and historic homes adorned with holiday garlands and lights. Plus, you’ll hear stories about local Christmas customs and how New Orleans celebrates the season with a distinctly Southern flair.
Rated 3.5 stars based on reviews, visitors highlight the engaging guide and the scenic overview of the city’s holiday decorations. It’s perfect for travelers who want a short, engaging introduction to New Orleans’ festive sights without too much walking or complexity. The tour is suitable for families, first-time visitors, and those who love holiday cheer with an authentic local touch.
Bottom Line: An easy, scenic walk showcasing the beauty of New Orleans’ Christmas decorations and traditions, perfect for a quick but memorable holiday overview.
4. Crescent City Christmas: A Festive Tour of New Orleans
Rounding out the list at number 4, Crescent City Christmas offers a comprehensive look at holiday-decorated landmarks across the city. For around $710 per group (up to four people), this guided tour takes you through famous sites like Jackson Square, Washington Artillery Park, and the Jazz National Historical Park.
This experience excels in providing a broad, curated holiday tour, blending sightseeing with music and local culture. The itinerary includes stops at the Riverfront, historic parks, and cultural sites, with guided commentary that highlights the city’s Christmas traditions and festive spirit. The inclusion of holiday music at the Jazz Park and a focus on Christmas Quarters makes it a well-rounded holiday outing.
While the price is higher than individual tours, the group focus and inclusiveness make it a good value for travelers wanting a private experience with a rich itinerary. Reviews are generally positive, citing structured pacing and interesting commentary. It’s best suited for small groups or families who want a comprehensive, festive overview of New Orleans’ holiday sights with a cultural twist.
Bottom Line: A detailed, holiday-focused tour covering key landmarks, music, and local traditions—ideal for small groups seeking a complete holiday experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas Experience in New Orleans
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and how much walking or activity you prefer. The Bayou Booze Cruise offers a lively wildlife and nightlife adventure for $55, perfect for groups wanting a party atmosphere. For a classic holiday stroll, the French Quarter Seasonal Tour provides a scenic, relaxed walk with history and bar stops.
If you’re after a short, visually stunning tour that highlights holiday decor, the Christmas NOLA Style Walking Tour is a good choice. For those seeking a comprehensive, private experience that includes music and multiple landmarks, Crescent City Christmas offers a more extensive itinerary.
Think about your preferred level of activity, your budget, and whether you want a casual walk, wildlife adventure, or culture. Booking early is recommended, especially during the busy holiday season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans during Christmas offers a variety of experiences, from lively boat parties to scenic walks and cultural tours. If you’re looking for an adventurous bayou cruise, the Bayou Booze Cruise is a top pick. For a relaxed, scenic stroll, the French Quarter Seasonal Tour is perfect. Meanwhile, the Christmas NOLA Style Walking Tour provides a quick, festive overview, and the Crescent City Christmas offers an in-depth, cultural holiday experience.
Whatever your choice, early booking and flexible plans will help you enjoy the best of New Orleans’ holiday cheer. This city’s unique blend of tradition, music, and history makes its Christmas celebrations truly one-of-a-kind.