New Orleans in December

December is one of the best times to visit New Orleans. With mild weather, festive events, and fewer crowds, the city offers a perfect mix of charm and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring the historic French Quarter, enjoying delicious local dishes, or taking in the holiday lights, New Orleans in December has something special for everyone. This guide will help you make the most of your trip by highlighting what to do, where to stay, and how to enjoy the city’s unique vibe during the season.

Weather in December: Finally, Perfect Weather

December is like the city's best-kept weather secret. Most days hit the mid-60s, which means you can walk around, take photos, and actually enjoy being outside. Nights cool down to around 45-50 degrees, so bring a light jacket or sweater for dinner out or late-night jazz club hopping. But here's the thing—it's perfect walking weather. You can stroll through the French Quarter for hours without feeling like you need to duck into every air-conditioned shop along the way.

Insider tip: New Orleans weather can surprise you, even in December. Start your day with layers you can peel off as it warms up. A cardigan or light sweater is perfect—easy to take off when the sun comes out. Yes, it might rain sometimes, but December showers are usually quick. Pack a small umbrella and comfortable shoes that can handle a little water. 

The best part? You can actually enjoy outdoor activities without planning your entire day around finding shade.

Things to Do in New Orleans in December: The City at Its Best

December is honestly when New Orleans shows off its best side. The tourists have mostly gone home, locals are in good spirits, and you can take your time enjoying everything without fighting crowds.

Must-See Spots Around the City

The French Quarter feels completely different in December. Jackson Square is less crowded, so you can browse the artists' work and catch a street performer without being squeezed in with a hundred other people. The weather makes those narrow, historic streets perfect for wandering and discovering hidden courtyards you might have missed in the summer rush.

Here are the must-see spots to add to your list:

• Jackson Square: A peaceful spot to admire local art and street performers, without the usual crowds. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
  
  
• Royal Street: This street is full of antique shops, art galleries, and unique boutiques. Take a walk and discover something special.
  
  
• The Cabildo: A historic building where you can learn about the city’s past in a quiet setting. It’s right next to Jackson Square, so it’s easy to stop by.
  
  
• Pirates Alley: A narrow, charming alley that feels like stepping back in time. It’s a hidden gem, perfect for a quick, quiet stroll.
  
  
• St. Louis Cathedral: This iconic church is a must-see for its beautiful architecture and history. It’s one of the most photographed places in the city.
  
  
• The Court of Two Sisters: A lovely courtyard restaurant with outdoor seating, perfect for a peaceful meal or drink in a beautiful setting.
  
  
• French Market: A lively market with food, local crafts, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up a memento or try a local snack.
  
  

Start with the Classics

Begin your day at Café du Monde for beignets and coffee—the lines are shorter in December, and sitting outside is actually nice instead of sweaty torture. Then walk down Royal Street to check out antique shops and art galleries. The street musicians seem happier when they're not melting in the heat, and you'll find yourself stopping to listen instead of hurrying past.

Explore Beyond the Quarter

The Garden District is absolutely gorgeous in December. Those famous mansions look even better without summer haze, and you can enjoy walking the tree-lined streets. Hop on the St. Charles streetcar—it's a classic New Orleans experience that's way more comfortable when you're not stepping into a furnace.

Hotel Perle can be a perfect spot to stay this December, located right on St. Charles Avenue, offering easy access to the French Quarter and Garden District. With spacious suites and a rooftop pool, it’s ideal for families and groups looking for both comfort and convenience. 

Walking Tours That Don't Feel Like Boot Camp

December weather makes walking tours actually fun. Ghost tours, food tours, historical walks—pick whatever interests you without worrying about heat exhaustion halfway through.

Head into the Marigny and Bywater neighborhoods to see colorful houses and find coffee shops that feel like real New Orleans instead of tourist spots. Frenchmen Street comes alive at night with live music pouring out of every club—it's like Bourbon Street but with better music and fewer drunk college students.

The National World War II Museum in the Warehouse District is incredible, and you can actually walk there from downtown without arriving drenched in sweat.

Holiday Magic, New Orleans Style

New Orleans doesn't do Christmas like other cities, but what they do is pretty special.

Celebration in the Oaks at City Park turns the whole place into a wonderland of lights. 

Massive oak trees covered in thousands of twinkling lights create this magical tunnel you can walk or drive through. It's one of those "only in New Orleans" experiences that feels both elegant and a little mysterious.

Insider tip: Go on a weeknight if possible—weekends get packed, and you'll spend more time in traffic than enjoying the lights.

Many restaurants bring back Reveillon dinners in December, which is basically New Orleans' fancy way of celebrating the holidays with amazing multi-course meals. It's a chance to try dishes that have been passed down for generations of the best dishes the city has to offer. 

Insider Tip: If you can, visit Celebration in the Oaks on a weeknight to avoid the crowds. The lights are just as spectacular, but you won’t have to deal with the weekend traffic.

Music and Fun After Dark

December is amazing for live music. The weather makes outdoor venues comfortable, and lots of local musicians are home for the holidays, which means incredible surprise performances and jam sessions.

Preservation Hall is always worth visiting, but December makes that tiny, intimate space feel extra cozy. The jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street have this special holiday energy—more locals, less touristy feel. Look for smaller parades that happen throughout December, like the 

Krewe of Jingle. They're not as huge as Mardi Gras, but they capture that same community spirit that makes New Orleans special.

Food That'll Make You Want to Move Here

New Orleans food is incredible any time, but December brings out all the comfort food that makes you understand why people never want to leave this city.

When there's a little chill in the air, a bowl of gumbo at Willie Mae's Scotch House feels like a warm hug. Their fried chicken is legendary, and December weather means you can wait in line without melting. Mother's Restaurant has been making the perfect debris roast beef po'boy since 1938—it's messy, delicious, and exactly what you want after walking around the city.

Insider tip: Go to Mother's early for lunch or late for dinner to avoid the biggest crowds.

For something fancy, book a Reveillon dinner at Commander's Palace in the Garden District. It's elegant New Orleans dining at its best, with dishes that tell the story of the city's food history. Brennan's does their own amazing version with French Creole flair that's been perfecting for over 75 years.

The French Market is perfect for wandering in December weather. You can sample pralines, check out local hot sauces, and grab a famous muffuletta from Central Grocery without feeling like you're going to pass out from heat.

Don't miss the neighborhood spots locals actually go to. Coop's Place serves incredible jambalaya and fried chicken in a dive bar that feels like the real New Orleans. The Ruby Slipper Café does brunch so good you'll want to go back the next day.

When you need a break from exploring, Hotel Perle's rooftop pool becomes the perfect spot to relax with a drink and plan your next food adventure—something you'd never want to do in July heat.

Local Festivities and Parades in December

December in New Orleans is full of special celebrations that go beyond the typical Christmas parades. The city’s holiday events are unique, lively, and deeply rooted in local culture. Here’s a look at some of the most festive and distinctly New Orleans experiences you won’t want to miss:

• Krewe of Jingle: This smaller, community-focused parade is a local favorite. It features beautifully decorated holiday floats and colorful costumes, but with a much more intimate, laid-back vibe than the larger parades. It’s the perfect way to see the city’s festive spirit in a more personal setting. Find out more about the Krewe of Jingle here.
  
  
• The Christmas New Orleans Style Concerts: During December, the New Orleans Symphony and other local musicians perform a series of seasonal concerts. These concerts are held in stunning venues, including the St. Louis Cathedral, and offer a beautiful way to enjoy holiday music in a historic setting. Check out the concert schedule and locations.
  
  
• La Nuit de la Francophonie: If you love French culture, this is the festival for you. Held in the French Quarter, it celebrates the French-speaking world with performances, art exhibitions, and delicious food. It’s a perfect event for those who want to enjoy New Orleans’ cultural diversity during the holiday season. Learn more about La Nuit de la Francophonie.
  

Tip: For a more authentic, local experience, consider attending one of these smaller parades or concerts. They capture the true festive spirit of New Orleans, and since they’re less crowded, you’ll be able to enjoy them without the chaos of larger events. It’s a great way to connect with the community and make your visit feel even more special.

Where to Stay: Finding Your Perfect Home Base

Picking where to stay in December is easier than summer because the weather makes almost anywhere comfortable.

French Quarter puts you right in the middle of everything. You can walk to restaurants, music venues, and historic sites without needing transportation. The downside? It can get noisy, especially on weekends, and parking is always tough.

Garden District gives you gorgeous mansions, quieter streets, and easy streetcar access to downtown. It's perfect if you want beautiful surroundings with easy access to the action.

CBD (Central Business District) offers modern hotels with easy access to both the French Quarter and attractions like the World War II Museum. Great for families who want reliable amenities.

For groups or families, Hotel Perle's spacious suites give everyone room to spread out after busy days exploring. Located on historic St. Charles Avenue, you're a short walk to the streetcar and easy rides to both the French Quarter and Garden District. After long days of sightseeing, that rooftop pool becomes your private escape in the heart of the city.

Insider tip: Book early for December, especially for New Year's Eve. The good spots fill up months ahead of time.

Before You Pack Your Bags for December

A few simple tips will help you make the most of New Orleans in December.

Pack Smart: Think layers. Bring t-shirts for warm afternoons, a light sweater for evenings, and one warm jacket just in case. Comfortable walking shoes are essential—you'll walk way more than you expect, but the weather makes it enjoyable. Pack a small umbrella, but don't stress about rain gear.

Book Ahead: Popular restaurants, especially those offering Reveillon dinners, book up early. Same with special events like Celebration in the Oaks. If there's something you really want to do, don't wait.

Getting Around: December weather makes New Orleans super walkable. The French Quarter is small enough to explore entirely on foot. The RTA streetcar system connects major areas and is part of the experience. Uber and Lyft work fine, but expect delays during busy weekend nights.

What's Happening: Check the New Orleans tourism website for events during your visit. December brings neighborhood parades, special museum exhibits, and pop-up events that are often free.

Your December Adventure Starts Here

December in New Orleans is like discovering a secret that everyone should know but somehow doesn't. Perfect weather for exploring, amazing food that warms you up, live music that sounds even better when you're comfortable, and holiday traditions that blend Southern charm with New Orleans magic.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, bringing the whole family, or just escaping winter somewhere that knows how to have fun, New Orleans in December delivers everything the city is famous for without the overwhelming heat or crazy crowds.

You'll have perfect weather for wandering historic neighborhoods, incredible meals that make every day feel special, and that famous New Orleans hospitality that makes visitors feel like locals. From morning coffee and beignets to late-night jazz sessions, December gives you the real New Orleans experience at its most comfortable and authentic.

For your December New Orleans trip, Hotel Perle offers the perfect combination of spacious comfort, unbeatable location, and that local charm that makes your stay part of the adventure. Start planning now—December in New Orleans is waiting, and trust us, once you experience the city in perfect weather, you'll wonder why you ever considered visiting any other time of year.

FAQs: December in New Orleans

What's the weather really like in December? 

Perfect! Days are usually in the 60s, nights in the 40s-50s. You'll need a light jacket for evenings, but it can be comfortable outside all day. Way better than summer heat or winter cold.

Where should I stay in December? 

The French Quarter puts you in the heart of everything, while the Garden District offers beautiful, quieter streets with easy access downtown. Hotel Perle's location and spacious suites make it perfect for groups and families wanting comfort and convenience.

Is December actually a good time to visit? 

December is one of the best times! Great weather, smaller crowds, special holiday events, and all the regular New Orleans magic without the summer sweat or Mardi Gras chaos.

What special things happen in December? 

You'll find Celebration in the Oaks light displays, traditional Reveillon dinners, holiday parades, and extra live music events. Check dates before you go since they change each year.

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