Your browser is not supported for this experience.
We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.
In Southwest Louisiana each season calls for a celebration and Christmas is no different! Celebrate the joy of the season with an array of family-friendly holiday events, from markets and parades to meet and greets with Ol’ St. Nick all leading up to Christmas Day.
Whether you're exploring historic neighborhoods aglow with twinkling Christmas light displays, savoring endless amounts of gumbo, or attending heartwarming holiday concerts, a Southwest Louisiana Christmas is a charming celebration you won't forget!
Look no further than Louisiana’s Playground to plan your holiday itinerary. The celebrations officially begin one month before Christmas Day with the annual Light Up The Lake Christmas Celebration at the Lake Charles Event Center.
Start the day enjoying local choirs belting your favorite Christmas carols and shopping from local artisans in Downtown Lake Charles. As the sun sets head to the Arcade Amphitheater for an electric concert, then the Mayor will flick the switch igniting all of the downtown Christmas displays for the official start to the holiday season.
The magic continues at the Lakefront Promenade, where a whimsical Lighted Boat Parade across the lake followed by a dazzling fireworks display over the lake!
Kick off your holiday shopping at Mistletoe and Moss Holiday Market, one of the largest holiday markets in the region. Hosted by the Junior League of Lake Charles, this regional market features merchants from across the reason specializing in clothing, home décor, and unique gifts.
Enjoy carnival rides, delicious food, a parade and over 40 vendors at the annual Christmas Under the Oaks and Holiday House Festival. Enjoy festive performances and special meet and greets with Santa throughout the weekend, and bundle up─there's also a 100% chance of snow!
Is Christmas in Lake Charles Family Friendly?
Yes! Most Christmas events in Lake Charles are suitable for all ages. Families will enjoy holiday markets, festive concerts, and parades. They can also explore beautifully decorated neighborhoods adorned in Christmas lights.
What Can I Do For Christmas in Lake Charles?
Popular Christmas activities in Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana include the Mistletoe and Moss Holiday Market, Light Up the Lakefront, Holiday House and Christmas Under the Oaks, and performances of The Nutcracker. Throughout the season you can also find Christmas themed art classes, holiday movie nights, and parades.
Where are the best places to view Christmas Lights?
There are many public Christmas Light Displays in Southwest Louisiana. In Lake Charles popular displays can be found throughout Downtown Lake Charles, at the Lake Charles Event Center, and along Shell Beach Drive, central Lake Charles on Canal Street, and in South Lake Charles at Trinity Baptist Church and Prien Lake Park. View more popular locations in our Christmas Light Displays blog.
Read More