Things to do in New Orleans with Kids
Explore New Orleans with Kids and Make Memorable Experiences
Looking for family-friendly events happening each month in New Orleans? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of events to help you plan your next adventure with your kids. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, educational experiences, or just something fun to do, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at our local family-friendly events and start planning your next New Orleans adventure!
Traveling to New Orleans With Kids
Make the most of your time in New Orleans with kids! From music festivals to museums, there are plenty of ways to create unforgettable memories with your family. Explore the vibrant culture of the city and beyond, and make sure to take the time to enjoy all the unique attractions and activities New Orleans has to offer. With so much to do, you and your family are sure to have a great time creating amazing moments together.
Kid-Friendly Outings in New Orleans for Every Budget and Interest
People ask us all the time, “is New Orleans kid friendly?” The answer is yes, and here are our thoughts on why. There are so many things to do with kids in New Orleans year-round! We strive to share ideas for every family’s budget and interests. Whether you are visiting New Orleans with kids (here’s a list of everything to do in the city and beyond while you’re here) or you live in New Orleans year-round, there are tons of kid-friendly outings to choose from. Below are local family-friendly events happening each month in New Orleans. We are sure you will find at least one or two (or ten!) to add to your family’s calendar!
Special thanks to our presenting sponsor: Lauren Chiu, a local mom, friend of New Orleans Mom and licensed REALTOR® with McEnery Residential.
Lauren is a licensed REALTOR® with McEnery Residential. Lauren has always had a passion for helping others, which you’ll find obvious in her approach toward real estate. Her ability to find real value and potential in a property is a trait in which she takes great pride. Prior to joining McEnery Residential, Lauren gained valuable and extensive experience in real estate through re-development and investment initiatives within her family’s real estate portfolio. Lauren’s passion for real estate can be traced back to her mother, who was a very successful real estate agent in Mississippi most of her life. While servicing her clients’ needs in real estate is her primary obsession, Lauren also enjoys all things related to New Orleans’ historic homes and fun renovation projects. In her free time, you can find her attending a sporting event for one of her three sons, playing tennis, or working on a DIY project.
There are no upcoming events.
November 2023
Dec
4
Celebration In the Oaks NOLA
New Orleans City Park
6:00 pm
Celebration in the Oaks is City Park’s premier holiday fundraiser. This incredible light festival has enchanted Park visitors since the 1980s, and is vital to the Park’s maintenance, care, and
December 2023
Dec
1
Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village
Heritage Park In Rivertown – Kenner
5:30 pm
Join us at the City of Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village in Heritage Park located at 2015 Fourth St. Vendors and entertainment will be present every Friday and Saturday from Dec.
Dec
1
Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village
Kenner’s Heritage Park
5:30 pm
Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village features a dazzling light display throughout Kenner’s Heritage Park located at 2015 Fourth Street, Kenner, LA 70062 in the historic district of Rivertown...
Dec
1
Northlake Rotary Club :: Snow Village Display :: Mandeville
5:30 pm
Open nightly from 5:30 – 10:30 pm Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve in the display windows of Aquarius Pools
Dec
4
Dec
4
City Park Celebration In The Oaks
New Orleans City Park
6:00 pm
The New Orleans Holiday Tradition November 23 – December 30 City Park’s largest fundraiser, Celebration in the Oaks, is THE New Orleans holiday family tradition. This incredible light festival...
Dec
4
Celebration In The Oaks – NOLA
New Orleans City Park
6:00 pm
Celebration in the Oaks is City Park’s premier holiday fundraiser. This incredible light festival has enchanted Park visitors since the 1980s, and is vital to the Park’s maintenance, care, and
Dec
5
Louisiana Christmas Day at WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum
11:30 am
Celebrate the holidays, Louisiana-style! The Victory Belles will take you on a musical tour from the raucous Cajun bayous to the splendors of caroling in historic Jackson Square. Hear your
Dec
7
Johnette Downing :: Ring In The Holiday :: NOLA
11:00 am
JOHNETTE DOWNING RING IN THE HOLIDAY, NEW ORLEANS-STYLE AT THESE TWO FREE FAMILY CONCERTS! ST. NICK CELEBRATION French Market, Dutch Alley Outdoor Stage Saturday, December 2 at 10:00 AM NEW ORLEANS
Dec
7
Sensory Friendly Playtime At LCM :: New Orleans
Louisiana Children’s Museum
4:30 pm
At LCM, we are committed to building stronger, connected communities through active engagement. We welcome all families and children, of all backgrounds and circumstances. We offer a playtime for fami...
Dec
7
The Rink Holiday Sip & Shop – NOLA
The Rink
5:00 pm
The Rink and its tenants are thrilled to announce the return of holiday Sip & Shops, a collaborative shopping and entertainment program for the people of New Orleans to enjoy.
Dec
7
Chanukah Menorah Lighting :: The New Orleans Riverwalk
New Orleans Riverwalk
5:30 pm
Celebrate the first night of Chanukah with the lighting of a giant menorah on Spanish Plaza! In partnership with Chabad-Lubavitch of Louisiana, Riverwalk Outlets is hosting this free event featuring
Dec
7
Junior League Of NOLA :: Holly Jolly Marketplace :: NOLA
Academy Of The Sacred Heart
6:00 pm
HOLLY JOLLY MARKET 2023 Thursday, December 7, 2023 Academy of Sacred Heart, 4521 St. Charles Avenue, 6-8pm THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2023 ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART 4521 ST. CHARLES AVENUE
Dec
8
ATT EXPO MARKET TO DEBUT NEW GONZALES HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA AT LAMAR-DIXON EXPO CENTER WITH A WINTER WONDERLAND OF HOLIDAY SHOPPING DEALS
Lamar Dixon Exppo Center
10:00 am
Holiday Market Launches Friday, December 8 at 10 a.m. through Sunday, December 10 at 4 p.m. (Gonzales, La.) – With just over 100 days to go until Christmas, ATT Expo Market
Dec
8
Sips Of The Season Stroll :: Mandeville
Girod Street
5:00 pm
Holiday cheer returns to Old Mandeville on Friday, December 8th for Old Mandeville Business Association’s Annual Christmas Sips of the Season Stroll! This Christmas event will be open to ticketed
Dec
8
Christmas Village – Kenner Rivertown
Heritage Park In Rivertown – Kenner
5:30 pm
Join us at the City of Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village in Heritage Park located at 2015 Fourth St. Vendors and entertainment will be present every Friday and Saturday from Dec.
Dec
8
Dec
8
Krampus :: The Fright Before Christmas :: NOLA
New Orleans Nightmare
6:00 pm
KRAMPUS RETURNS TO NEW ORLEANS NIGHTMARE FOR 2023 HAUNTED HOLIDAY POP-UP Krampus: The Fright Before Christmas (“Krampus”) at New Orleans Nightmare. The haunted holiday experience opens only Frida...
Dec
8
A Very Merry Christmas Spectacular – Mandeville
30 by Ninety Theater
7:00 pm
5th Annual A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Tis the season to be jolly, fa la la la la…. Bring the whole family to this spirited celebration of the holidays featuring
Dec
8
Crescent City Stage: A Christmas Carol
Loyola Marquette Theater
7:30 pm
Crescent City Stage announces casting and performance dates for A Christmas Carol; Tickets on sale now – Crescent City Stage, New Orleans critically acclaimed professional
Dec
8
Louisiana Philharmoic Orchestra :: Classical Christmas: Handel’s Messiah :: NOLA
The Orpheum Theater
7:30 pm
NEW ORLEANS (November 20, 2023) – The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, the region’s premier orchestra, presents a festive lineup of concerts to kick off the holiday season. Audiences from familie...
Dec
9
Christmas at Papillon’s / Breakfast with Santa :: Mandeville
Papillon’s Mandeville
9:00 am
Join us for a magical evening at Christmas at Papillon’s / Breakfast with Santa! Get ready to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as we celebrate the most wonderful time
Dec
9
Porter Lyons Christmas Wonderland + Meet Santa
Porter Lyons
9:30 am
Make lasting memories with a holiday tradition. Be transported to a magical winter wonderland right in the heart of the French Quarter with Porter Lyons. Join us for a festive
Dec
9
Calming Your New Baby
10:00 am
Calming Your New Baby (prenatal–3 months) Learn what to expect during the first few months, also known as “the fourth trimester,” including techniques to quickly calm crying and boost infant
Dec
9
Teddy Bear Tea At The WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum
10:00 am
Join us for Teddy Bear Tea at BB’s Stage Door Canteen—the perfect holiday experience to share with your children and grandchildren! Featuring delicious food and sweet treats, live music from
Dec
9
Christmas Past Festival In Old Mandeville
Girod Street
10:00 am
Holiday cheer returns to Old Mandeville on Saturday, December 9th for Old Mandeville Business Association’s 19th annual Christmas Past Festival! This FREE Christmas event will be open to the public
Dec
9
BK House & Gardens Holiday Tea Party :: NOLA
BK Historic House and Gardens
10:00 am
Join us at The Historic BK House & Gardens on Saturday, December 9 for our annual Holiday Tea party! Kids and guardians are welcomed to attend the party filled with
Dec
9
Nature Walk At LCM :: New Orleans
Louisiana Children’s Museum
10:00 am
Come join members of the Louisiana Master Naturalists of Greater New Orleans at 10 am and 10:45 as they take guests on a 30-45 minute nature walk of LCM’s grounds.
Dec
9
Prytania Theaters :: Movies With Santa :: NOLA
Prytania Theaters At Canal Place
10:00 am
Prytania Theaters presents Movies with Santa WHAT: Movies with Santa WHO: ...
Dec
9
Brunch With Santa And Friends At The Cannery
The Cannery
10:30 am
It’s Christmas at The Cannery! Join us for a holiday brunch with Santa and his friends. Tickets include brunch by Toulouse Gourmet Catering, arts and crafts activities, as well as
Dec
9
Louisiana Philharmoic Orchestra :: Musical Strorytime :: The Snow Day :: NOLA
Popp Bandstand City Park
10:30 am
NEW ORLEANS (November 20, 2023) – The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, the region’s premier orchestra, presents a festive lineup of concerts to kick off the holiday season. Audiences from familie...
Dec
9
Pictures With Santa Paws :: Adoption Event :: Mandeville Animal Hospital
Mandeville Animal Hospital
12:00 pm
Santa Paws is coming to town Adoptions too! We look forward to this event each year Stop on by the hospital with your pup and get a picture with Santa!
Dec
9
Holiday Market With The Grinch :: Port Orleans :: NOLA
Port Orleans Brewing Company
12:00 pm
Mark your calendars and join us and local vendors for a little holiday market with a well-known grumpy celebrity. The Grinch will be at the brewery to steal your beer
Dec
9
Cheers & Beers Holiday Fest – Faubourgh Brewing Company – NOLA
Faubourg Brewing Company Beer Garden (Tap Room will be open!)
1:00 pm
Cheers & Beers Holiday Fest – Sat, Dec 9th 1-7pm – Free Kids Bounce House & Kids Crafts, Free Live Music, Holiday Vendors, Food from Parish Third Orleans Cuisine, Fun
Dec
9
Wreath Making Workshop :: Longue Vue House & Gardens
Longue Vue House & Gardens
1:00 pm
Get into the Holiday spirit with Wreath Making at Longue Vue! Join us December 9th from 1:00pm-3:00pm for this wonderful workshop! Light refreshments will be served.
Dec
9
12th Annual Running of the Santas – New Orleans
Manning’s on Fulton Street
2:00 pm
NEW ORLEANS’ WILDEST HOLIDAY EVENT, RUNNING OF THE SANTAS, RETURNS WITH MUSICAL HEADLINERS BUCKTOWN ALL STARS ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 IN THE WAREHOUSE DISTRICT 12th Annual Costumed Fun Run will Sen...
Dec
9
Preservation Resource Center’s 48th Annual Holiday Home Tour – NOLA Garden District
New Orleans Garden District
4:00 pm
The Holiday Home Tour is a self-guided walking tour* that explores the interiors and grounds of several stunning homes all dressed up for the holidays in the historic Garden District
Dec
9
Crescent City Classic – Christmas in Lafreniere Park Run/Walk
Lafreniere Park
4:00 pm
The Crescent City Classic will hold their holiday run/walk in beautiful Lafreniere Park on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 4:00 pm. The 2-mile course takes you through Lafreniere Park during
Dec
9
Dinner Drive In At Lafon Arts Center (Muppet Christmas Carol & The Santa Clause) :: NOLA
Lafon Arts Center
5:00 pm
Muppet Christmas Carol & The Santa Clause December 9, 2023 @ DUSK Join us for our double feature holiday tradition at the Lafon Drive-In! This holiday season we will be
Dec
9
Lafon Arts :: Holiday Drive In :: NOLA
Lafon Arts Center
5:00 pm
Saturday, December 9 @ dusk Take a step back in time and enjoy a good old fashion drive-in. The Lafon Arts Center Holiday Drive-In will feature The Muppet Christmas Carol
Dec
9
Movies Under The Stars :: At The Riverwalk
New Orleans Riverwalk
5:30 pm
Bring the entire family out for a special holiday movie under the stars on Spanish Plaza! Watch The Polar Express and enjoy complimentary holiday treats provided by Riverwalk Outlets. See
Dec
9
Christmas Boat Parade Viewing Party :: NOLA
JB’s Fuel Dock
5:30 pm
Join us again this year to watch West End’s famous Christmas Boat Parade! See all the beautifully decorated boats float up and down the canal from our large renovated dock.
Dec
9
Dinner Detective True Crime Dinner Show
The Doubletree Hotel Kenner
6:00 pm
Immerse yourself in a captivating True Crime Mystery Dinner Theatre – a national sensation since our Los Angeles opening in 2004! Surrender to an evening brimming with suspense, laughter, and
Dec
10
Nutcracker Christmas Tea
The English Tea Room
10:00 am
Event by The English Tea Room The English Tea Room Duration: 2 hr Public · Anyone on or off Facebook December 10th, 16th, and 22nd Seatings at 10am, 1pm and
Dec
10
Snow Sisters Princess Brunch At The Cannery
The Cannery
10:30 am
Join us for a Holiday Princess Brunch with your favorite Snow Sisters at The Cannery! Tickets include brunch by Toulouse Gourmet Catering, arts and crafts activities, as well as other
Dec
10
Nutcracker Tea 2023 at Studio M School of Dance
Studio M at The Studio School of Dance
12:30 pm
A New Orleans annual holiday tradition, The Nutcracker Tea will delight and engage your family this holiday season. Her Royal Highness, the Sugar Plum Fairy, has made sure that your
Dec
10
A CANDY CANE CELEBRATION 2023 FUNDRAISER
Destrehan Plantation
1:00 pm
December 10, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm TICKETS GO ON SALE MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2023 at 8:00 am Enjoy an afternoon on our grounds and in our Mule
Dec
10
Merry Mande Holiday Tea – Mandeville
Mandeville Trailhead
2:00 pm
oin us for the Annual Merry Mande Holiday Tea presented by the Mande Milkshakers. The three course tea will feature pictures with Santa, performances by the Mande Milkshakers, a Holiday
Dec
12
Family Laser Tag Fundraiser for St. Ann CYO
1200 S. Clearview Pkwy Suite 1106 Harahan, LA 70123
4:00 pm
Join us for an evening of family fun for unlimited laser tag, bumper cars, and mini golf. Proceeds from wristbands support St. Ann CYO.
Dec
12
Growing Up Boys (10-13)
Worley Hall
6:30 pm
Growing Up for Boys (10-13 years) Practical information for boys including male and female anatomy, physical and emotional changes during puberty, and hygiene issues. Boys participate with their fathe...
Dec
14
Growing Up Part 2
Worley Hall
6:30 pm
Growing Up Part 2: The Talk For those who have taken Growing Up for Girls or Boys Part 2: The Talk includes an anatomy review and accurate information on sex,
Dec
15
The Nutcracker
The Orpheum Theatre
7:00 pm
NOBT: The Nutcracker by New Orleans Ballet Theatre 26 NOBT: The Nutcracker The Orpheum Theater is proud to host the New Orleans Ballet Theater in the Holiday must, The Nutcracker:
Dec
16
Train Rides With Santa
Louisiana Steam Train Association Train Yard
9:00 am
Event by Louisiana Steam Train Association, Jacob Styron and Michael Mann Louisiana Steam Train Association Duration: 7 hr 30 min Public · Anyone on or off Facebook Come out and
Dec
16
Dec
16
Jingle Bell Jog :: Northshore
Children’s Museum of St. Tammany
9:00 am
Free Admission! Healthy Vibes Day! 9:30am – Jingle Bell Jog begins (FREE participation to register for the Jog) REGISTER FOR THE JOG 10:00am-12:00pm – Holiday programming throughout the ...
Dec
16
Striking With Santa Bowling Event at Tangi Lanes in Robert, LA
Tangi Lanes Bowling
10:00 am
The holiday season is just around the corner, and we’re excited to invite you and your family to our special “Striking With Santa” event at Tangi Lanes! It’s the perfect
Dec
16
Lafon Arts :: Sugar Plum Party :: NOLA
Lafon Arts Center
3:00 pm
Saturday, December 16 @ 3:00pm Sugar Plum Party is an abbreviated, one-hour performance of The Nutcracker, followed by a “Sugar Plum Party.” You are invited to join the Sugar Plum
Dec
16
Dec
16
Twinkle On The Tchefuncte :: Boat Parade & Holiday Decorating Contest :: Madisonville
Madisonville Tchefuncte Riverfront
5:00 pm
Join us for Twinkle on the Tchefuncte – Lighted Boat Parade & Holiday Decorating Contest, Toy and Food Drive, Madisonville’s newest addition to its Merry Madisonvilleuu season. Bring the f...
Dec
16
Lafon Arts :: The Nutcracker :: NOLA
Lafon Arts Center
7:30 pm
Saturday, December 16 @ 7:30pm Sunday, December 17 @ 3:00pm River Region Ballet brings their production of The Nutcracker to the Lafon Arts Center to kick off our Movement Series!
Dec
17
Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré Holiday Home Tour – French Quarter NOLA
12:00 pm
Savor the holiday spirit as Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré presents French Quarter residences dressed for the season on December 17, 2023. The tour includes interesting architectural styles and
Dec
17
Dawn Busters Kiwanis Christmas Tea at Lafreniere Park
Lafreniere Park
12:30 pm
The Ladies of Dawn Busters Kiwanis will kick off our Family Series Events with a Christmas Tea on Saturday, December 2, 2023, in The Foundation Room at Lafreniere Park. The
Dec
17
Samara Joy
The Orpheum Theatre
7:00 pm
Samara Joy: A Joyful Holiday by Orpheum Theater 1954 Samara Joy: A Joyful Holiday, live at the Orpheum Theater Sunday, December 17, 2023 at 7pm. Tickets on sale at Ticketmaster.com.
Dec
19
Car Seat Fitting Station
Children’s Hospital New Orleans
9:00 am
Car Seat Fitting Station Installation by a nationally certified technician. Drop-ins welcome, appointments preferred. Free. 3rd Tuesday of each month: September 19, October 17, November 21, or Decembe...
Dec
19
Dec
19
Growing Up Girls (9-12)
Worley Hall
6:30 pm
Growing Up for Girls (9-12 years) Practical information about female anatomy, what happens during puberty, body image, menstruation and hygiene is presented in an informal, fun and hands-on manner. Gi...
Dec
20
Louisiana Philharmoinc Orchestra :: Happy Hour :: Tipitina’s
Tipitinas
6:00 pm
NEW ORLEANS (November 20, 2023) – The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, the region’s premier orchestra, presents a festive lineup of concerts to kick off the holiday season. Audiences from familie...
Dec
21
Infant & Child CPR
Worley Hall
6:30 pm
Infant and Child CPR (0—8 years) American Heart Association’s “Family and Friends” non-certification class is back in person. Class size is limited. Fee $35/person. Thursdays, September 21, Oc...
Dec
22
Dec
28
Little Sprouts at Children’s Museum of St. Tammany
Children’s Museum of St. Tammany
10:30 am
A MORNING OF DISCOVERY AND PLAY IN OUR NATURAL WONDERS GALLERY. MEET NEW FRIENDS AND PARTICIPATE IN ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE THE WORLD AROUND US MEMBERS FREE $9 ADMISSION PER PERSON
Dec
29
Safe@Home by Safe Sitter through JPRD
Johnny Bright Playground
9:00 am
NEW Class Alert Safe@Home by SafeSitter® is now available through JPRD for students in grades 4-6 to prepare them to be safe when they are home alone. This class is
Additional Resources for Living in New Orleans With Kids
