Get ready to experience a one-of-a-kind holiday in Lake Charles! While the landscape may be green, plenty of holiday magic awaits! Southwest Louisiana is bursting with the season's joy, from bustling holiday markets and family-friendly festivals to heartwarming performances and concerts. Whether planning a family getaway, on the hunt for a personalized gift, or craving a delicious holiday cocktail, your winter adventure in Lake Charles awaits.

 

Holiday Shopping in Lake Charles

Louisiana’s Playground has no shortage of boutiques and gift shops like Not Just Christmas, Yaya & Company, Candace Alexander Art Studio, and Accessory Zone where you'll find all your holiday décor, stocking stuffers, and personalized gifts for the entire family. Browse dozens of vendor booths at magical holiday markets like Mistletoe & Moss and Christmas Under the Oaks and Holiday House. While shopping you'll enjoy live music, meet and greets with Santa, and photo ops in front of elaborate holiday backdrops. Take advantage of smaller crowd sizes during Sip 'n Shop events. Check out The Ultimate Gift Guide to Southwest Louisiana for more shopping inspiration.

 

Attend a Holiday Concert or Performance

Get ready for a heartwarming rendition of "The Nutcracker" at the Rosa Hart Theatre, the Louisiana Choral Foundation's Christmas Concert, and special presentations of The Grinch at Southlake complete with holiday themed refreshments and photo opportunities.

The Lake Charles gaming resorts bring in award-winning artists and comedians on the weekends. Enjoy holiday theme nights and contests at resort bars, Blue Martini, Four Suits Lounge, and the L Bar, and comedy shows at local favorites like Library Riot and OB's Bar and Grill. 

If live music is your jam, then head to Nellie Lutcher Memorial Park for a festive afternoon of holiday classics during Music in the Park: Christmas Edition. For more live music downtown restaurants like Tia Juanita's Fish Camp, Panorama Music House and Luna Bar and Grill Downtown or Crying Eagle Brewing-University in central Lake Charles are your go-to destinations.

 

Tour Christmas Light Displays

Nothing beats magical displays of Christmas lights especially when their twinkling colors coordinate with your favorite Christmas classics. Delight in the annual displays by traveling on foot, in your vehicle, or by horse-drawn carriage. Top locations include Downtown Lake Charles, Shell Beach Drive, Sam Houston Jones State Park, and Pecan Street. Check out Christmas Light Displays in Southwest Louisiana for more locations.

 

Sip on a Christmas Cocktail

‘Tis the season for festive drinks! Experience the perfect blend of fun and flavor with Christmas cocktail menus from top restaurants like Bodega Wine Dive, The Terrace, and The Max. From Bad Santas and Christmas in the Cosmos to Fro Cocoa– an adult spin on hot chocolate, these drinks will surely land you on the naughty list.

 

Have Fun with the Family

Make your holiday unforgettable with group activities in Lake Charles. Reserve an RV spot for weekend stays at The Gates at McNeese and Beyonder Cajun Moon Resort. For RV or cabin stays with additional amenities head to Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park RV Resort and Sam Houston Jones State Park.

Start your day with a cup of hot cocoa near the fireplace or overlooking the rivers and lakes, then head out for a morning hike on one of the kid-friendly trails. Head to Prien Lake Mall to take photos with Santa in between your holiday shopping or stop by Krew's Books and Brews for a special Letters to Santa writing session. The magic continues with holiday hours at Millennium Park, where kids can play late into the evening under the warm glow of twinkling lights. Christmas Carriage Rides from Almosta Ranch run from November 29 through December 23 allowing guests to view the beautiful light displays downtown.

 

Explore the History of Lake Charles

During your getaway, learn about Southwest Louisiana by visiting one of Lake Charles' cultural sites, like the restored 1911 Historic City Hall. It houses the Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center's three floors of public art galleries. Experience the magic of Christmas during the Miniature Snow Village exhibit, then explore traveling exhibits and pieces from local artisans in the main galleries. Imperial Calcasieu Museum is a double treat with a museum dedicated to SWLA history and the majestic 375-year-old Sallier Oak is steps from its doors.

 

Check Out Christmas Festivals

Enjoy a winter of memorable festivals in Lake Charles, where live music, delectable cuisine, and dazzling fireworks light up the season. Kick off the fun with the Light Up The Lake Christmas Celebration on November 29th. During the day, shop from over 20 vendors while listening to live performances, sipping on delicious hot chocolate, strutting through the streets during the Christmas Walking Parade, and creating memorable crafts during Santa's Workshop. The celebrations continue in the evening with the tree lighting ceremony and Lighted Boat Parade all leading up to fireworks over the lake!

Enjoy an afternoon of Christmas cheer, performances, and decadent treats at community events and parades like Cowboy Christmas at Le Bocage, Dickens in DeQuincy, Westlake Christmas Parade, and the Vinton Christmas Celebration. 

At the turn of the new year, head out to the Louisiana Fur and Wildlife Festival! The oldest, coldest festival in Southwest Louisiana features a gumbo cook-off, Cajun music, carnival rides, and a parade.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you're finding the perfect holiday gifts at local shops and markets or experiencing the joy of Christmas carols and candy at a Christmas parade, your holiday vacation in Lake Charles will be packed with wonderful memories. For more things to do this Christmas, check out our event calendar, family-friendly activities, and Cajun Christmas.