How to have a Crescent City Christmas.
Cedric Angeles
If Mardi Gras isNew Orleans bread and butter, Christmas is the dessert.
Come December, hotel lobbies are illuminated, palm trees shimmer, and restaurants roll out seasonal specialties.
Credit:Cedric Angeles
It couldnt be simpler to plan an over-the-top getaway hereit is the Big Easy, after all.
The citys soundtrack changes ever so slightly this time of year.
While many properties dazzle,The Roosevelt New Orleanshas one of the most impressively arrayed foyers of them all.
The long corridor of its lobby transforms into a winter wonderland thanks to thousands of little white lights.
Potted red poinsettias surround the trees.
The Windsor Courton Gravier Street offers another spectacle.
Magnolia wreaths embellish the windows, greeting folks as they step inside.
Just beyond sits an ornate display of confectionery made by pastry chef and chocolatier Matt Serkes.
Many hotels do oversize gingerbread houses, but Serkes creates an intricately shaped treat from many pounds of chocolate.
Credit:Cedric Angeles
People can always be found lingering around it, marveling at the scale of the edible craftsmanship.
We begin taking reservations in April, explains Isabella Marciante, marketing and communications manager for the property.
It is such a beloved tradition that we are typically booked well in advance.
And The Davenport Lounge at theRitz-Carlton New Orleanshosts cookie decorating and afternoon refreshments with an appearance by Papa Noel.
During December, the restaurant offers an additional menu for a reveillon dinner.
(This Catholic tradition is why tables across the city book up so fast at Christmastime.)
The word comes from the French term reveil, which translates to awakening.
AtArnauds Restaurant, a century-old establishment, four courses are included in their Creole-inspired special lineup.
Two more incredible reveillon spreads are atAntoines RestaurantandBroussards Restaurant& Courtyard.
Credit:Cedric Angeles
Antoines, an area mainstay since 1840, coordinates a wine pairing for each of its four courses.
Go Caroling In Jackson Square
Prepare to encounter city-wide festivities nearly every day of the week.
We love coming together as a community to experience the camaraderie and joy of Christmastime, explains Sandra Dartus.
Many families make it part of their annual holiday plans, she says.
The program always begins with a procession to O Come, All Ye Faithful and ends with Silent Night.
Its an astonishing thing to see this public space filled with light.
The event features the Preservation All-Stars.
Theres a canopy of old-growth oaks that sways amid strings of glowing baubles and glittering fleurs-de-lis.
(you’ve got the option to also combine the two ticket options.)
Passes must be purchased in advance.
Stroll Along Canal Street
In New Orleans, its not just the halls that are decked.
Between them, lampposts are hung with wreaths and swooping scallops of garlands.
Restaurants break out their unique menus, boutique windows hold creative displays, and hotels light up.
