NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Pontchartrain Conservancy is hosting its 12th annual Lights on the Lake holiday celebration – a family-friendly, holiday event providing the best view of the annual West End Boat Parade on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Hosted at the New Canal Lighthouse (8001 Lakeshore Dr.), the event runs from 5 to 8 p.m., with the parade scheduled for 5:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Dozens of local boat owners will decorate their vessels with wreaths, lights and holiday decorations and assemble at the New Canal Lighthouse before proceeding along Lakeshore Drive to Canal Boulevard and back, up and down the New Basin Canal, along Breakwater Drive and through the harbor.
“This festive event offers the best view of the annual West End Boat Parade—a dazzling showcase of decorated boats illuminating Lake Pontchartrain,” said Kristi Trail, executive director of Pontchartrain Conservancy, in a release about the event. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season while highlighting the many ways Pontchartrain Conservancy serves our community.”
Lights on the Lake will also feature holiday shopping in the Pontchartrain Conservancy gift shop as well as fun, hands-on STEM activities and sustainable crafts for the kids. Enjoy local food trucks serving up treats on site. Hot chocolate as well as other festive drinks will be available for purchase.
This year’s entertainment lineup includes choirs and dancing performances. These performances will take place at the New Canal Lighthouse.
Admission for all is $10 (free for children five and under) and tickets to the event will be sold at the door and online. Pets are not permitted at the event. Outside food and drinks are also not allowed.
All proceeds from Lights at the Lake will allow Pontchartrain Conservancy to continue its mission to drive environmental sustainability and stewardship through scientific research, education and advocacy, as well as offering education and outreach opportunities through the New Canal Lighthouse.
For more information about the event and to purchase tickets, visit https://scienceforourcoast.org/events.
