Christmas Eve bonfires on the levee

Along the Mississippi River levee between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, crews are already stacking wood and shaping towers that will blaze on Christmas Eve.

Families and friends have been building these bonfires for generations — tall markers of light meant to guide Papa Noël along the river’s dark edge.

Visitors are welcome to stand along the levee and take in the fire and fanfare. In St. James Parish, the best viewing spots remain Gramercy, Lutcher and Paulina.

Celebration in the Oaks at City Park in New Orleans

Each year, City Park turns itself into a glowing reminder of why New Orleans does holidays its own way.

More than a million lights wind through the ancient oaks, whether you choose the two-mile driving tour at 4 Friederichs Ave. or the wal

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