The best things to do in New Orleans this weekend

Through Jan. 3 at City Park

City Park’s annual holiday celebration is an enchanting spectacle of lights. The park’s majestic oak trees are decked out with more than a million lights, and light sculptures are scattered throughout the park. Tour by bike, on foot or in your car—and don't forget to stop in the Botanical Gardens for more holiday cheer.

Dec. 25-Jan. 2

Celebrate Hanukkah at Saba as their lounge is transformed into the L'Chaim Lounge. Toast to the season with festive cocktails named for Jewish celebs like Jerry Seinfeld and Barbara Streisand, and nibble on treats from the seasonal Latke Board.

Dec. 27 at NOLA Brewing 

There’s nothing quite like good-old honky tonk and western swing to warm you up on a cold winter’s night. Catch Gal Holiday as she brings the spirit of old-school country at a free show at NOLA Brewing. Grab a pint and a pizza, and dance the night away.

Through Dec. 29 at various locations

‘Tis the season for holiday pop-ups, and a handful of bars around the city are pulling out all the stops with over-the-top decor and festive holiday cocktails. Check out the Bah Humbug Bar at The Bower Bar (try the frozen bourbon pumpkin spice latte); Miracle at Barrel Proof (don’t forget to pick up a collectible holiday mug); Sippin’ Santa at Latitude 29 (how fun is it to order a Frosty the Merman?); Blitzen’s Bar at Omni Royal Orleans (the kitschy decor is a must-see); Mariah Carey’s Black Irish Holiday Bar at the Virgin Hotel (it’s all you want for Christmas) and Spirits Aglow at the Eliza Jane (don’t miss the boozy hot chocolate).

Dec. 27 at Tipitina’s

The Grammy-winning progressive Cajun band wraps up 2024 with a show at Tipitina’s. Expect an eclectic mix of Cajun melodies and modern sounds infused with a little punk and psychedelia. This show is sure to set the stage on fire as the band celebrates 25 years.

Dec. 27 at The Jazz Playhouse at The Royal Sonesta

In her weekly appearance at The Jazz Playhouse, Trixie Minx puts a modern spin on a classic 1960's Bourbon Street Burlesque Show. Each Friday, for two shows, she’s joined by a rotating cast of soloists all performing classic strip tease to live music in a classy setting that hearkens back to the prime days of jazz and burlesque on Bourbon.

Dec. 28 at Okay Bar

Feel free to "lose your s*#& on the dance floor" as DJ Anne Glaviano spins local rare and sentimental records from 1957-1974 at this monthly party. Come by early for line dancing lessons. This month, it's The Freeze.

Dec. 28 at Mahalia Jackson Theater

The comedian, television host and best-selling author brings her worldwide Little Big Bitch tour to New Orleans with a stop at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. If you’re a fan of the biting, incisive humor found in her shows and books, you’ll love her live and in person.

Dec. 29 at Bacchanal

Spend a pleasant afternoon outdoors at Bacchanal. An early show, a glass of wine and a charcuterie plate sounds like a perfect way to unwind after the holidays.

Through Jan. 6 at JAMNOLA

Head to JAMNOLA to dive into art in the final days before its big move to Frenchmen Street. To celebrate the season, JAMNOLA has a special JingleJam photo opp featuring giant ornaments. It's also your last chance to visit JAMNOLA at its current location before it moves over to Frenchmen Street.

Through Feb. 2 at various locations

The citywide contemporary art triennial is back to showcase artists from all over the world. Prospect.6 will explore climate change, colonialism and belonging. Participating artists will exhibit around the city in diverse venues like museums, parks, theaters and universities. Expect thought-provoking murals, installations, performances and community programs.

Through Feb. 10 at New Orleans Museum of Art

Sand, Ash, Heat: Glass dives deep into the 4,000-year global history of glass. This dazzling showcase isn't just about pretty objects; it highlights how glass intersects with major scientific breakthroughs, culinary traditions and artistic revolutions. Expect to see an eclectic mix of treasures, from intricately crafted ceramics and elegant glassware to statement-making furniture and even a show-stopping chandelier.