The iconic NOLA ChristmasFest is gearing up for its 10th anniversary extravaganza. Transforming the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center into a winter wonderland, the fest promises ten days of festive celebrations from Dec. 21 to Dec. 30.
Michael J. Sawaya, Convention Center President and CEO, expressed the significance of this milestone, stating, “This year’s anniversary is momentous for NOLA ChristmasFest and for the Convention Center as a cornerstone holiday celebration for the Greater New Orleans community.”
The festivities kick off on Dec. 21 with an Opening Day & Coca-Cola Giveaway, featuring a live screening of Saints versus Rams at the Polar Pub at 7:15 p.m. Notable events include Mini-Christmas Parades, a Christmas Eve Concert by the Victory Belles, a Mini-Toy Giveaway on Christmas Day, and a Date Night Holiday Concert on Dec. 28.
NOLA ChristmasFest will also bring back beloved traditions and introduce enhanced experiences, such as a redesigned Skating with Santa rink, expanded ice bocce lanes, carnival rides, the Polar Pub, visits with Santa, a gingerbread village, Big Freezy Ice Slides, heartwarming performances, and Big Blast Blizzard thrill rides.
Tickets are available online and grant access to 4.5-hour sessions, except on Christmas Day. Sessions run from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering flexibility for attendees to plan their festive adventure.
Guests can purchase $25 tickets for weekdays and $30 tickets for Saturdays and Sundays. Reserved parking is recommended and can be booked in advance through ParkMobile. NOLA ChristmasFest 2023 operates on a credit card-only basis for ticket purchases and onsite concessions.
As the city prepares for a decade of holiday joy, NOLA ChristmasFest invites everyone to join the merriment at nolachristmasfest.com for a full schedule of events and activities. Embrace the season with a unique blend of tradition and innovation in the heart of New Orleans.