Holiday Magic Returns to New Orleans City Park
The City Park Conservancy (CPC) announced that Celebration in the Oaks will return to New Orleans City Park from November 27, 2026, through January 1, 2027. The annual holiday tradition, which dates back to the 1980s, draws more than 185,000 visitors each year to view over one million twinkling lights and hundreds of illuminated displays set beneath the park’s iconic live oaks.
For generations, this seasonal event has served as a cornerstone for local winter festivities. This year, the Conservancy is rolling out significant updates to both the Driving and Walking Tours, aiming to blend long-standing community traditions with fresh attractions.
Driving and Walking Tours Feature New Light Displays
Visitors opting for the Driving Tour will find an expanded route featuring 45 exhibits along Palm Drive. Among the additions is a Mardi Gras-inspired tree display complete with a purple, green, and gold light curtain alongside six-foot beads. Meanwhile, thousands of bulbs will provide enhanced uplighting on the iconic live oaks along Roosevelt Mall.
The Walking Tour introduces several interactive photo opportunities and displays. Guests can explore a brilliantly illuminated ancient live oak, an 18-foot walk-through mushroom, a 22-foot pure-white prism tree, and a reimagined Peppermint Post Office. Passengers on The Holiday Express, sponsored by Ochsner Children’s, will now encounter enhanced illumination alongside displays featuring the Three Little Pigs, Mama Duck and Her Ducklings, and a towering 40-foot, three-dimensional “I Heart City Park” message.
“Each year, we look for new ways to bring the magic of the season to life while preserving the traditions our community loves,” said CPC President and CEO Rebecca Dietz. “This year’s additions reflect that commitment, creating even more opportunities for families and friends to make lasting memories in City Park.” CPC President
Special Events and Discounted Tickets Return for 2026
Special programming and discounted entry options return for the 2026 season. Jingle Bells and Beer will take place on Saturday, November 21, offering an exclusive preview with open beer bars and entertainment. Carousel Gardens and Storyland will light up with festive displays prior to the official public opening, giving guests an early preview of the seasonal brightness.
Tickets for the Driving and Walking Tours will cost $25 and $20—reflecting a $15 savings—on Value Nights, which are slated for November 29 as well as December 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, and 17. Bike Nights will run from November 30 to December 3 for $8 per cyclist, supported by a Pedal Pit Stop at 1 Palm Drive offering refreshments, restrooms, and seating. Visitors looking to bypass standard lines can purchase a Celebration in the Oaks Dasher Pass for an additional $40 to secure expedited Driving Tour entry, a perk provided free to Friends of City Park Members.
Beyond seasonal entertainment, the event functions as the Conservancy’s largest annual fundraiser. It contributes nearly 10% of the park’s annual operating budget, funding ongoing care and maintenance across the grounds.
“What’s especially meaningful about Celebration in the Oaks is that the tradition gives back to the very place that brings us together,” Dietz said. “Every visit helps support the care of City Park, ensuring it remains a welcoming place for our community to enjoy throughout the year and for generations to come.”
The CPC will continue its Community Ticket Program, supported by Ochsner Children’s, to distribute complimentary Driving and Walking Tour tickets to eligible non-profit community organizations. Ochsner Children’s, Fire on the Bayou, FOX8, La Calle 97.9, Magic 101.9, The Times-Picayune | NOLA.com, The Burkart Family, Community Coffee, Entergy, Grayson Data Services, Hancock Whitney, Pelican Publishing, WRSTBND, Carman Industries, Coca-Cola United Bottling Company, The Duplantier Family, Gayle and Tom Benson Charitable Foundation, Hahn Enterprises, Henderson Hutter Group, Kidcam Camps, Lakeside Merchants Association, Louisiana Blue, and Wheel Fun Rentals proudly serve as the supporters that make this event possible.
