Christmas New Orleans Style

Every part of the world has it's Holiday Traditions. But for post Katrina New Orleans, LA, many of these traditions are just fond memories. For many native New Orleanians a part of their history was washed away on that famous day in late August, 2005.

My husband was born in New Orleans and I have family roots there, too. Together, with this lens, we hope to bring back some of the memories of those Christmases past. You'll find Celebration in the Oaks, Fires on the Levee, Benny Grunch, holiday foods and also links to plenty of Louisiana products and food baskets (including Mr. Bingle) that would make unique holiday gifts.

Let us go back to the 1950s through the 1980s when life was simple and the songs were about love in this great city on the Mississippi River. Christmas was a magical time and Canal Street was the center of that magic. Stores like Goudchaux's and Maison Blanche decked out their windows with colorful displays. Mr. Bingle, the funny little snowman with the ice cream cone hat was on every child's mind. Christmas dinner was a true feast, with several generations of families in attendance. My husband's Mother was Italian and Irish and the feasts that she prepared would put some chefs to shame.

There was something magical about Christmas in New Orleans. Whether it was the lighting displays in the park and later in the 1990s at the home of Al Copeland (Popeye's Chicken), the Christmas on the Bayou boat parade or the bonfires on the levee, the multicultural population made the Holiday celebration exceptional.

The lovely lights in City Park.

New Orleans City Park

Some of the popular events of Christmas in the Oaks include: T-Rex, the popular raptors. These are part of the Dinobration exhibit, a crowd favorite since 2003. Also new are the Very Merry Maze, a dancing light show, and a snow machine that will keep Mr. Bingle chilled with hourly snow showers. Of course, the fabled Carousel will be operational, complete with new lighting and music, and the train will take patrons on an enchanted journey highlighted by an electrifying light display along City Park Avenue. A rich tradition is New Orleans' signature, and nowhere is that tradition more evident than during the Christmas season at Celebration in the Oaks. Join us as we continue to rebuild our great city and share in the joy and spirit of our 24th annual Celebration.

More about Celebration in the Oaks

The delicious holiday dinner menu that Dottie Bordelon usually prepared.

Roasted Turkey or Baked Ham

Oyster Dressing

Stuffed Mirlitons

Cranberry Sauce

Sweet Potatoes (with little marshmallows on top)

Italian Salad

Twisted Italian Bread with poppy seeds (Usually from Gambino's Bakery.)

Bread Pudding

New Orleans is unique to say the least. This primarily Catholic city has been a melting pot for many cultures for many years, dating back to before the Louisiana Purchase. The French and Spanish influence is still evident in the architecture and customs. Because of this, New Orleans and most of South Louisiana is set apart from the rest of the state. It is almost as if there are 2 very different states. Holiday celebrations are steeped in and influenced by the traditions of the European ethnic groups, including French, Acadian (Cajun), Spanish, Italian, Irish, German, Creole, African-American and several other groups that settled there.

Here's the list. It's official - 10 ways that you know it's Christmas in New Orleans.