Christmas 2006 Calendar
 Reveillon, A Creole Dining Tradition
Throughout December (dates vary)
Creole families of yesteryear celebrated this traditional dining custom twice during the holiday season - on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. Today's Reveillon has been expanded to include various dates during December so that everyone can share in this special holiday meal. Menus have been adapted to combine ageless Creole cuisine along with more contemporary New Orleans dishes, but the spirit of the past remains. Reveillon menus and featured dates for participating restaurants may be found on this website.
Friends of the Cabildo Walking Tours
December 1 - 30, Thursdays-Sundays
1850 House Museum Store
523 St. Ann Street
Take a memorable walk with the Friends of the Cabildo through the historic Vieux Carré, decked out for the holidays. Tours emphasize the history, architecture, and folklore of this fascinating city. Thursdays through Sundays, 10am and 1:30pm. For more information, call (504) 523-3939 or visit www.friendsofthecabildo.org. $12.00 adults, $10 senior citizens and students, free for children under 12 when accompanied by an adult.
Living History at the Hermann-Grima and Gallier Historic Houses
December 1-31
Gallier House
1132 Royal Street (Wednesdays)
Hermann-Grima House, 820 Royal Street (Thursdays)
Throughout the month of December, Living History demonstrations will be offered on Wednesdays at Gallier House and cooking demonstrations on Thursdays at the Hermann-Grima House. Watch as the 19th century is brought to life at these weekly events. Call (504) 525-5661 or go to www.hgghh.org for more information.
Merriment on Magazine Street
December 1-31
Along Magazine Street (1800-6100 Blocks)
Catch the spirit of the season and find the perfect holiday gift. Shop all six miles of America's most interesting and unique street. There is something for everyone on Magazine Street with an eclectic mix of shops, boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and more. Most stores are open Monday through Saturday 10am-5pm. Call (504) 342-4435 or visit www.magazinest.com for more details.
Yuletide at the Shops
December 1-31
The Shops at Canal Place
333 Canal Street
Join The Shops at Canal Place (Saks Fifth Avenue, Brooks Brothers, Kenneth Cole and over 40 other stores) for an extraordinary holiday experience of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Marvel at "Music in New Orleans," the 50-foot indoor Christmas tree display embellished with antique gold and silver fleur de lis, horns and violins. Stop by the concierge desk for special holiday offers. Shops are closed on December 25, but mall will be open. For more information, call (504) 522-9200 or visit www.theshopsatcanalplace.com. Free.
Beauregard-Keyes House in Holiday Trim
December 1-31, except December 25
Beauregard-Keyes House
1113 Chartres Street
Step into Christmas past for a look at the house in Victorian-style trim, dressed in greenery, velvet ribbons and lace. Hourly tours include the 1826 House, Frances Parkinson Keyes' doll collections, folk costumes, fans, and veilleuses (teapot/nightlight). Monday through Saturday. 10am-3pm on the hour. Call (504) 523-7257. $5 adults, $4 students, $2 children.
Celebration in the Oaks™
December 1-31, except December 24 & 25
New Orleans City Park
New Orleans' premier holiday light show transforms the New Orleans Botanical Garden into a holiday wonderland. A self-guided garden tour includes nightly entertainment, nightly visits and photos with Santa, the New Orleans Historic Train Garden, poinsettia display, amusement rides, miniature train tours of the lights and Creole delicacies. Ride tickets and food are purchased separately. Open weekends only starting November 24, opening nightly December 4-30 (closed December 24 and 25). For more information call (504) 483-9415 or visit www.neworleanscitypark.com. The garden/walking tour is $5 per person (children age 3 and under are free). Group packages are available.
Historical Characters - "Louisiana Living History Project"
December 2-25
Various dates and locations in the historic Vieux Carré, Saturdays & Sundays only
Crescent City's grand history comes alive this holiday season with guests from the past. Listen to tales of old from infamous historic characters - all transported into the present with the dress and mannerisms of their period. Visit www.fqfi.org or call (504) 522-5730. Free.
Gingerbread Junction
December 2 & 9
Louisiana Children's Museum
420 Julia Street
Build fond memories and construct a distinctive gingerbread house at a festive workshop that is fun for the entire family. Plus, catch the holiday spirit with seasonal arts and crafts, music and more. Workshop space is limited and advance reservations are suggested. Call (504) 523-1357 or visit www.lcm.org for workshop times and information. $35/house fee and admission for up to 4 people.
Hermann-Grima/Gallier Historic Houses in Holiday Dress
December 4-29, except December 25
Hermann-Grima House
820 St. Louis Street
Gallier House
1132 Royal Street
Hermann-Grima and Gallier Historic Houses will be decking the halls for the holidays! From the Empire grandeur of the Hermann-Grima House to the Victorian grandeur of the Gallier House, we invite you to experience an old-fashioned Creole Christmas. Guided tours of the completely restored houses offer a wealth of sights and smells that recall the rich traditions of New Orleans' past. For more information, call (504) 525-5661 or visit www.hgghh.org. Monday-Friday, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 2pm, & 3 pm. $6 admission.
Holiday Home and Courtyard Tour
December 5-30
The Historic New Orleans Collection
533 Royal Street
Visit the festively decorated residence and courtyard of General and Mrs. L. Kemper Williams, founders of The Historic New Orleans Collection. Browse through The Shop at The Collection for unique gift items on your holiday list. Residence Tours Tuesdays - Saturdays at 10am, 11am, 2pm, and 3pm. Closed Mondays. Call for hours on Sundays (504) 523-4662 or visit www.hnoc.org for more information. $5.
Holiday Tea at Longue Vue House and Gardens
December 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, & 28
Longue Vue House and Gardens
7 Bamboo Road
A perfect prelude to the holidays! Take a tour of the decorated home, enjoy a festive tea with friends, listen to lovely holiday sounds and find all of your holiday gift needs at the Shop at Longue Vue. The holiday teas fill up early so reserve your seat today! Reservations are required and space is limited. 1:30-3:30pm. Call (504) 488-5488 ext. 13, or visit www.longuevue.com. $20 members, $25 non-members.
Holiday Piano Hour
December 6, 13, 20, 27
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Visitors Center , 916 North Peters Street
Join pianist Jim Hession for an hour of Holiday themed jazz. 12-1:00 p.m.
Call (504) 589-4841 or visit www.nps.gov/neor. Free.
Cathedral Christmas Concerts
December 6, 13, 14, 20, 21
St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
Local choirs and New Orleans artists herald in the season with nightly concerts of Christmas carols and gospel favorites in one of the country's most historic churches. The ecumenical celebration will make Christmas New Orleans Style one of your treasured holiday memories. 6pm. Free.
Candlelight Tour of Historic Homes and Landmarks
December 7
French Quarter Landmarks & Homes
Experience the romance and heritage of New Orleans on a tour of 19th-century homes and landmarks. Walk through the treasured Beauregard-Keyes House, Gallier House, The Louisiana State Museum -- 1850 House, The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, and The Historic New Orleans Collection, all decorated in the style of Christmas past. Self-guided tour with refreshments. 5-8pm. Call (504) 522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org for advance tickets or purchase tickets at any of the properties on tour night. $15 adults, $5 children 12 and under.
Chef's Holiday Cooking Demonstrations
December 7, 14, & 21
The Shops at Canal Place
Learn the secrets of local cuisine from the chefs that make New Orleans the culinary capital of the world! Acclaimed chefs from throughout the area share their favorite recipes at free cooking demonstrations and samplings that are guaranteed to spice up your holidays. Brought to you by Williams Sonoma and the Shops at Canal Place. Space is limited, so come early! Demos start at 3 pm and last about 45 minutes. Free.
31st Annual Holiday Home Tour Patron Party
December 8
Private Residence in the Garden District
Kick off the 31st annual Holiday Home Tour with a cocktail reception in one of New Orleans' Magnificent Garden District Homes. Cost of party includes ticket(s) to the Holiday Home Tour in the Garden District on December 10 and 11. Black tie optional. 7-10pm. Call (504) 581-7032 or visit www.prcno.org for tickets and information. Tickets start at $100.
Tea Party for the Dolls
December 9
Beauregard-Keyes House
1113 Chartres Street
Boys and girls enjoy a Christmas tradition at the Beauregard-Keyes House. Bring a doll or toy, take part in a "sing-along," listen to a story in the elegant ballroom, have refreshments by the old-fashioned Christmas tree, see dolls "at tea" and a Victorian dollhouse. Parents tour house, and then all guests have refreshments and meet Santa Claus by the Christmas tree. 2-3pm, doors open at 1:45pm. Call (504) 523-7257 for more information. $5 children and parents.
Shades of Praise Annual Christmas Concert
December 9
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Visitors Center , 916 North Peters Street
Join the famed New Orleans Interracial Gospel Choir, Shades of Praise, for a program of Christmas songs performed gospel style . 2-3:30pm. Call (504) 589-4841 between Tuesday and Saturday, or visit www.nps.gov/jazz. Free.
Holiday Pops
December 9
Dixon Hall
Tulane University
Ring in the holidays with your favorite Christmas carols and holiday songs with Keith Brion and the musicians of the LPO. This New Orleans holiday tradition has many surprises so the entire family can get in the holiday spirit with this early stocking stuffer. 8:00 pm Visit www.lpomusic.com or call (504) 523-6530 or 866-523-6530 for more information. $35-60.
31st Annual Holiday Home Tour/Preservation Resource Center
December 9 & 10
Garden District Neighborhood
Explore the splendor of New Orleans' Garden District during the holiday season! Stroll through seven private homes exquisitely decorated for the season while being serenaded by local musicians. Enjoy lunch at the café and shop for holiday gifts at our expanded boutique, all located at Trinity Episcopal Church's Bishop Polk Hall (1329 Jackson Avenue). Group rates available for 10 or more persons. 10am-4pm Daily. Call (504) 581-7032 or visit www.prcno.org for tickets and information. $20 members, $26 non-members, $30 day of tour, $ 20 group rate for 10 or more (advance tickets only).
Holiday Traditions Around the World
Ongoing December 9-23
Louisiana Children's Museum
420 Julia Street
Discover how the holiday season is celebrated all over the world. Explore the geography, language, traditions and celebrations of other countries through displays, demonstrations, art projects and more. Call (504) 523-1357 or visit www.lcm.org. Free with museum admission cost of $7 per person.
Children's Holiday Celebration at Long Vue House and Gardens
December 10
Longue Vue House and Gardens
7 Bamboo Road
Christmas, Hanukkah, and Winter themed crafts and activities for children, a visit from Santa, a gingerbread house contest open to all, and light refreshments served in the beautiful setting of Long Vue House and Gardens' historic property. Reservations required. 10am-noon. Call (504) 488-5488, ext. 320, or visit www.longuevue.com. $5 per person for members, $7 non-members.
Chanukah on the Avenue
December 15
Temple Sinai
6227 St. Charles Avenue
Witness the traditional lighting of the Chanukah Menorah at this pre-Chanukah ceremony. Songs of the holiday will be led by Cantor Joel Colman. Then join with Temple Sinai's Youth Choir in singing joyful Chanukah songs. 7pm. Call (504) 861-3693 for more information or visit www.templesinaino.org. Free.
Prescription for Holiday Cheer!
December 15
New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
514 Chartres Street
Enjoy a festive holiday tour of the 19th century apothecary. Seasonal refreshments will be served. Please call (504) 565-8027 for reservations. $10. 6pm to 8pm.
Lars Edegran's Riverwalk Jazz Band with Big Al Carson
December 15
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Visitors Center
916 North Peters Street
Annual concert of traditional jazz with a Christmas twist, featuring the Boogie Woogie Santa Clause, Big Al Carson. 2-3:30pm. Call (504) 589-4841 or visit www.nps.gov/neor. Free.
Holiday on the Boulevard
December 15, 16, & 17
Ashe Cultural Arts Center
1712 Oretha Castle-Haley Boulevard
Holiday on the Boulevard is a weekend holiday festivity that includes a kick-off parade, a marketplace full of arts, crafts and gifts that emphasize African and Caribbean culture, music and other entertainment, storytelling, ethnic foods and beverages. The reigning spirits for the festivities are Baba Kwanza and Mama YeYe, both storytellers. Fridays and Saturdays from noon-8pm, Sundays 1-7pm. Visit www.ashecac.org or call (504) 569-9070 for information. Free.
Merry Fishmas
December 16 & 17
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Canal Street at the River
Young visitors at Audubon Aquarium of the Americas this holiday season will find some holiday fun with a fishy flare at Merry Fishmas! Come see live animal presentations, shows, and make some arts & crafts at this undersea seasonal event. All Merry Fishmas activites are free with paid Aquarium admission. Up to 4 hours of discounted parking is available courtesy of the New Orleans Hilton Riverside at the Whale lot. 10am-4pm.
St. Louis Cathedral Christmas Concert
December 17
St. Louis Cathedral
Jackson Square at Chartres Street
This year we herald the season with the combined choirs of the St. Louis Cathedral and Temple Sinai. This will be a presentation of a multi-faith concert to jointly honor the holidays of Christmas and Hanukkah. 5:30pm. For more information, call (504) 525-9585. Free.
Caroling in Jackson Square
December 17
Jackson Square
Join in a truly moving 60-year-old tradition as Jackson Square brims with candlelit faces and song-lit spirits as high as the spires of the St. Louis Cathedral. Led by Patio Planters, the Social and Garden Club of the French Quarter. Candles and song sheets provided. Gates open at 6pm and caroling begins promptly at 7pm. For more information, call (504) 319-6226 or visit www.patioplanters.org. Free and open to the public.
Chanukah at Riverwalk
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Riverwalk's Spanish Plaza
Canal Street at the River
Join Chabad Lubavitch of Louisiana for the annual lighting of the largest menorah in Louisiana. The festivities feature traditional and contemporary Jewish music and free latkes (potato pancakes). 4:30-6:30pm. Call (504) 866-5164 or visit www.chabadneworleans.com for more information. Free.
French Quarter Holiday Home Tour
December 17
French Quarter
Savor the holiday spirit as Patio Planters, the Social and Garden Club of the Vieux Carré, present five beautiful French Quarter residences dressed for the season. Features include interesting architectural styles and home furnishings as well as a variety of collections of Christmas decorations plus a visit from Papa Noël. The tour is a prelude to the 60th annual Caroling in Jackson Square later in the evening. 2:00pm-4:30pm. For more information, call (504)319-6226 or visit www.patioplanters.org. Tickets available after December 8 at Creole Delicacies (533 St. Ann Street) and New Orleans Gem & Lapidary (527 St. Philip St.). $10. All proceeds benefit Caroling in the Square.
Handel's Messiah
December 20
First Baptist Church New Orleans
5290 Canal Blvd.
No music lover's holiday season is complete without hearing the magic of the Messiah performed by the full Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and the soaring voices of the Symphony Chorus of New Orleans. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the ever-inspiring Handel's Messiah. 7:30 pm. Purchase tickets by calling (504) 523-6530 or visit www.lpomusic.com. $25-$65.
New Orleans Bowl
Friday, December 22
Louisiana Superdome
The 2006 New Orleans Bowl will match the Troy Trojans against the Rice Owls. 7pm. For more information or tickets, call 504.525-5678 or visit www.neworleansbowl.org. $20-$40.
'Zat You, Santa Clause? with the American Jazz Quartet
December 23
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Visitors Center , 916 North Peters Street
Holiday favorites performed by the American Jazz Quartet led by Jim and Martha Hession. 2-3:30pm. Call (504) 589-4841 or visit www.nps.gov/neor. Free.
Christmas Eve at St. Louis Cathedral
December 24
St. Louis Cathedral
Jackson Square at Chartres Street
Come celebrate, as we have for generations, by capping off your Christmas Eve with the pageantry of the traditional Midnight Mass. Doors open at 11:15pm. Christmas carols, with the St. Louis Cathedral Concert Choir, begin at 11:30pm. Vigil Mass at 5pm on the 24th. Christmas carols, with the St. Louis Cathedral Boy choir, begin at 4:30pm. On Christmas Day, Masses will be at 9:00am and 11:00am. For information, please call (504) 525-9585.
Christmas Eve Bonfire Cruise
December 24
Crescent Ship Service
St. Rose (subject to change)
Celebrate Christmas Eve in a unique way this year aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen or Riverboat Cajun Queen. The boats will cruise up the Mississippi River to view the huge levee bonfires that light the way from Gramercy to Lutcher. As night falls, the bonfires are lit and Papa Noël makes his appearance, bearing a gift for everyone on board. Both cruises will feature a lavish Creole buffet, open call-brand bar, and live entertainment. Creole Queen boards at 1pm and departs at 1:30pm (subject to change) with return at approximately 10pm. Call (504) 524-0814 or (800) 445-4109 for reservations and prices, or visit www.neworleanspaddlewheels.com.
Christmas Eve on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
December 24
Steamboat NATCHEZ
Toulouse Street Dock
Riverside of Jax Brewery
Celebrate with a beautiful nighttime cruise on the Mississippi River with friends or family. Our New Orleans Jazz Trio will serenade you while you enjoy a festive holiday buffet and extensive bar offerings. Docked in the heart of the French Quarter, our authentic steamboat will take you back to the holidays of New Orleans in the 1800's. Reservations a must! Boarding begins at 6:30pm and boat returns at 9:30pm. Call (504) 586-8777 or (800) 233-2628 or visit www.neworleanssteamboat.com for reservations and ticket information.
Bonfire Adventure
December 24
Gray Line Tours, Departs from Lighthouse @ Toulouse Street and the Mississippi River
Celebrate a time honored Louisiana tradition – the lighting of the bonfires on the banks of the Mississippi! Includes a guided tour of Destrehan Plantation, an informal "Cajun Country" dinner, and the period craft demonstration of open fire cooking. Guided motor coach tour with some walking required. Guaranteed reservations required by 4pm on day prior to tour departure. Departs at 3:00pm. Call (800) 535-7786 or (504) 569-1401 or visit www.graylineneworleans.com. Show your AAA card and save.
Christmas Day at St. Louis Cathedral
On Christmas Day, Masses will be at 9:00 am, and 11:00 am.
Jackson Square at Chartres Street
For information, please call 504-525-9585.
Jingling Through the Crescent on Christmas Day
December 25
Gray Line Tours
Departs from the Marriott Hotel
555 Canal Street
Give yourself a holiday treat with a tour of New Orleans! You will follow the path of the St. Charles Avenue streetcars past stately mansions, and the exclusive Garden District decorated for the holidays. Guaranteed reservations required by 4pm on day prior to tour departure. Departs 10am. Call (800) 535-7786 or (504) 569-1401 or visit www.graylineneworleans.com. Show your AAA card and save.
Cooking up Christmas Family Workshop
December 28
Hermann-Grima House
820 St. Louis Street
Nineteenth-century culinary and visual delights await! Families will bake, decorate and enjoy old-fashioned holiday treats, as well as go on a scavenger hunt in this authentically restored 1830's kitchen and house decorated for the season. Dress to cook. Advanced reservations required. Only one parent/guardian per child. For children ages 8-13. 1:00pm-3:30pm. Call (504) 525-5661 or visit www.hgghh.org for tickets and more information.
Creole Christmas Home Tour
December 29 & 30
The Cabildo at Jackson Square
701 Chartres Street
Join the Friends of the Cabildo on a seasonal stroll through the French Quarter with tours of three historic homes. 10:30am and 12:30pm. Call (504) 523-3939 for advance tickets or visit www.friendsofthecabildo.org for more information. $18.
Kid's New Year's Eve Party
December 30
Louisiana Children's Museum
420 Julia Street
Don't miss the biggest New Year's Eve Party for kids in New Orleans! The Louisiana Children's Museum will be bursting with color, excitement, and confetti as you create a festive paper-bag party hat, and rock, roll and ring in the New Year with an awesome balloon launch, confetti drop, noisemakers and a toast to family and friends - all at the stroke of NOON! Call (504) 523-1357 or visit www.lcm.org. Advance tickets are recommended and cost $8 for adults and children one year and older, or $10 on day of event, IF tickets are available.
New Year's Eve Midnight Fireworks Cruise
December 31
Paddlewheeler Creole Queen and/or Riverboat Cajun Queen
Canal Street Dock at Riverwalk
Cruise on the Mississippi River from the past and into the future aboard the luxurious, award-winning Paddlewheeler Creole Queen and/or Riverboat Cajun Queen. Greet the New Year with hors d'oeuvres, open call-brand bar, live entertainment, and festive party favors for the celebration. These are choice seats for a breathtaking view of the magnificent midnight fireworks display over the river. Boards 10-11pm; cruises 11pm-1am. Call (504) 524-0814 or (800) 445-4109 for reservations and prices or visit www.neworleanspaddlewheels.com.
New Year's Eve Dinner Fireworks Cruise
December 31
Steamboat NATCHEZ, Toulouse Street Wharf, Riverside of Jax Brewery
New Year's Eve on the Mississippi River? There is nothing better. Good food, good spirits, dancing to a renowned local band, party favors, and the very best seat in town for the Midnight Fireworks Show. Docked in the French Quarter, our authentic steamboat and its terrific crew will start off your new year better than ever before. Reservations a must! Boarding begins at 9:30pm. Cruise the river from 10:30 pm until 12:30am. Call (504) 586-8777 or (800) 233-2628 or visit www.neworleanssteamboat.com for reservations and ticket information.
Riverview Room New Year's Eve Celebration "New Orleans at its Best!"
December 31
Riverview Room
Jackson Brewery
600 Decatur Street
Celebrate the arrival of the New Year in style at the elegant Riverview Room in Jackson Brewery, the center of the city's New Year's Eve festivities! Your reserved seats for this "Times Square of the South" celebration include a full buffet dinner, premium open bar, champagne, favors, music by the Top Cats, and great views of the midnight ball drop and fireworks. All seating is reserved and sells out every year, so please call early. Cocktail attire, black tie encouraged. 9pm-1am. For reservations, call (888) 236-8260 or (504) 525-3000. $160 per person, inclusive.
Dean M. Shapiro
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