Holiday Tradition, Holiday Celebration, Cultural Tradition · Bonfire Celebration, Louisiana Tradition, Holiday Festivity
Christmas Eve Bonfires on the Levee
Centuries-old South Louisiana tradition — nearly 200 bonfires (20–30 ft. high wooden pyramids) lit along both banks of the Mississippi River to guide 'Papa Noël' (Cajun Santa Claus); hailed by international media as one of the most breathtaking holiday traditions in the world
Dec 24, 2026
19:00
St. James Parish, Mississippi River levees — primarily St. James Parish (Gramercy, Lutcher, Paulina); ~30–40 miles upriver from New Orleans via River Road (LA Hwy 44 east / 18 west)
St. James Parish Government
200 expected
Free