Celebration in the Oaks: A Seasonal Festival Guide for New Orleans

Celebration in the Oaks is a premier holiday event that has enchanted visitors in New Orleans since the 1980s. This incredible light festival, held annually in City Park, features over a million twinkling lights and breathtaking displays scattered throughout the park’s 2.25-mile driving tour and reimagined walking tour. The event is not only a beloved family tradition but also a vital fundraiser for the park’s maintenance, care, and beautification year-round.

TL;DR

• Celebration in the Oaks showcases a spectacular holiday lights festival, a cherished New Orleans tradition.
• The event offers a mesmerizing driving tour, a walking tour with access to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and Botanical Garden, and unique light displays.
• As City Park’s largest fundraiser, Celebration in the Oaks supports the park’s upkeep and beautification throughout the year.

Historical Background of Celebration in the Oaks

Celebration in the Oaks began in the late 1980s and has since evolved into one of the most spectacular holiday lights festivals in the country. The event has become an integral part of New Orleans’ holiday traditions, attracting visitors from far and wide to experience the magic of the twinkling lights and festive atmosphere.

Signature Attractions at Celebration in the Oaks

The famous oaks of City Park are adorned with over a million twinkling lights, creating a mesmerizing display that visitors can enjoy during the 2.25-mile driving tour. The tour lasts approximately 30 to 47 minutes, and visitors are encouraged to tune into 103.7 FM to enjoy holiday classics while driving through the park.

Walking Tour

The walking tour offers an all-access pass to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, featuring 18 rides guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Visitors can also explore the elegant Botanical Garden, where they can make memories under the twinkling lights with their loved ones. The walking tour is approximately 90 minutes long.

Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips

The event runs from late November to early January, with the driving tour open from 6-10 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and 5-11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The walking tour is open from 6-11 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and 5 p.m.-12 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Ticket prices for the driving tour range from $25-40 per vehicle for cars and SUVs, with a limit of eight visitors per vehicle. The walking tour combined with the driving tour is $25 per person, while the standalone walking tour is $35 per person. Friends of City Park Members can receive one free driving tour admission.

Parking is available in three lots outside the main entrances to the walking tour. Visitors can enter the driving tour at the corner of Wisner Boulevard and Friederichs Avenue, and the walking tour at the Amusement Park (7 Victory Ave.) or the Botanical Garden (5 Victory Avenue).

Activities and Entertainment

Celebration in the Oaks offers a variety of activities for all ages. In addition to the awe-inspiring light displays, visitors can enjoy unlimited rides at the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park during the walking tour. The event also features special add-ons available through the ticket-purchase process to enhance the holiday experience.

Community and Cultural Impact

Celebration in the Oaks is more than just a holiday event; it is a beloved tradition that brings the New Orleans community together. The festival is City Park’s largest fundraiser, with proceeds supporting the park’s maintenance and beautification efforts throughout the year. Local businesses and volunteers play a crucial role in making the event a success, showcasing the community’s dedication to preserving this cherished tradition.

Safety and Accessibility Features

The event organizers prioritize visitor safety and have implemented various measures to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all. Accessibility options are available for visitors with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can participate in the festivities. Families can follow tips provided by the event organizers to ensure a safe and memorable visit.

Comparison with Other Local Festivals

Celebration in the Oaks stands out from other New Orleans festivals due to its unique focus on holiday lights and family-friendly activities. While events like French Quarter Fest and Mardi Gras are known for their lively music, parades, and adult-oriented entertainment, Celebration in the Oaks offers a more intimate and whimsical experience suitable for all ages.

The festival’s stunning light displays, amusement park rides, and botanical garden setting create a magical atmosphere that sets it apart from other holiday events in the city. Celebration in the Oaks is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the spirit of the season and create lasting memories with their loved ones.