City Park’s Celebration in the Oaks is underway, houses are lit up along St. Charles Avenue and the streetcars are donning their festive holiday décor. New Orleans is getting into the festive spirit.
One of my new favorite holiday traditions, the Greenway Supernova, happens this Thursday, Friday and Saturday night (5 to 9 p.m.) Hosted by The Friends of the Lafitte Greenway, the Supernova event features creative luminary displays by 10 artists, plus live music performances, food trucks and a holiday market. The event is free for all each night, but tickets are also on sale as well for the special Patron Party benefitting the Greenway with VIP food, cocktails, a glitter bar and more. Grab a go-cup of your favorite festive beverage and take a stroll through this unique New Orleans event.
For the second year, another new tradition: a cookie decorating/cookie swap party coming up with friends. I’ll be making some traditional southern-style bourbon balls, plus bringing some pre-made gingerbread people to decorate. Topping it off will be a jug of this merry making cocktail by the folks at Cochon Butcher.
If you’re looking for a gingerbread decorating event that’s a little different, sign up now for the Ogden Museum of Southern Art “Gingerbread Shotgun House” craft happy hour. You’ll come away with lots of useful decorating tips, plus your own gingerbread creation. Tickets for the Dec. 14 event sell out fast!
It’s also the time of year for shopping local at the many arts and crafts markets popping up across the area. NOLA Craft Culture is always a go-to favorite for glittery and glitzy supplies, as well as hand crafted items from New Orleans artists. Check out their Winter Market this weekend (Dec. 10-11) from noon to 5 p.m. to stock up on holiday gifts, as well as glitter and accessories for the upcoming Carnival season.
Finally, for this the second weekend of December, it’s time to pop some popcorn, brew up some spiced apple cider and get cozy on the couch for our annual family viewing of the Christmas classic “Die Hard.” Yippee ki-yay!
What are your family traditions for getting in the spirit and ready for the holidays?
