The Joys of Christmas in NOLA
Coming this December is the 10th Anniversary of a classic New Orleans holiday attraction. Nola ChristmasFest, presented by Coca-Cola, will be hosted in the New Orleans Convention Center from December 21-30. There will be dining options such as Mrs. Claus's Sweet Shop, Mistletoe Grill, and Polar Pub filled with holiday treats.
"For 10 years, families, friends and neighbors have gathered at the Convention Center to share in the holiday season together and create cherished memories," said Michael J. Sawaya, Convention Center President and CEO, in a press release.
"As we reflect on the past 10 years, we look forward to hosting this holiday tradition each year, and welcome everyone to celebrate the spirit of the season with us," said Sawaya, in a press release.
At Christmas Fest, locals and visitors can enjoy several activities that are filled with holiday cheer. This years event features a brand new ice rink, a gingerbread village, Santa and friends visits, ice slides, and entertainment everyone can enjoy. The rides, Jolly Jingler and Big Blast Blizzard, are returning this year along with other carnival rides for all ages.
Skating with Santa will be returning on Friday, December 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. For this special event, guests can enjoy doughnuts, coffee, and hot cocoa as they skate with Santa. All of this will take place before doors open for entry to the regular session of the day. A separate ticket purchase is required for Skating with Santa.
Each day opens at 11 a.m., closes at 3:30 p.m. for an hour, and then reopens at 4:30 p.m. until 9 p.m. However, on Christmas Eve, the day starts at 11 a.m. and closes at 3:30 p.m. On Christmas Day, the event will open at 1 p.m. and close at 5 p.m.
Tickets for Nola ChristmasFest
Tickets are available for purchase on weekdays for $25 and $30 on Saturdays and Sundays. Ticket purchases are valid for a single admission on the specific day and session selected and each session lasts four and a half hours. Tickets are available online for both NOLA Christmas Fest and Skating with Santa. For guests under the age of 18, a parent or guardian is required for admission. The event is credit card only for tickets and concession purchases. The ParkMobile app can be used to reserve parking spaces.
If you love the stage and you'd like to get involved, apply to become a volunteer entertainer. As a volunteer, you'd receive complimentary admission to the festival and you'd be provided with technical support, sound, and stage lighting.
