It's that time of year again, Northshore friends and families! The Holiday of Lights, a cherished tradition that has been enchanting us for 24 years, is back in Mandeville, Louisiana. Proudly presented by St. Tammany Health System | Ochsner & WDSU-TV, this annual extravaganza promises to make your holiday season sparkle brighter than ever before. Get ready to mark your calendars for December 1, 2, 8, and 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., as Koop Drive in Mandeville transforms into a Christmas wonderland that will leave your family with hearts full of festive cheer.
The Holiday of Lights Parade
The festivities kick off with a dazzling ceremony to illuminate the more than 2,000 lights, casting a magical glow over the Holiday of Lights event. On December 1 at 6 p.m., the Holiday of Lights Parade will take center stage on Koop Drive, lighting up the night and filling the air with holiday spirit. And guess who'll be in the parade?
- Santa Claus: Yes, the man in red himself, Santa Claus, will be making a grand entrance to join the festivities. After all, it's not a holiday celebration without Santa!
- Parish President Mike Cooper: Parish President Mike Cooper will be there to officially turn on the lights at the water tower and spread the joy and excitement of the season.
- Abita Springs Children’s Academie: These little stars will be shining brightly in the parade, adding an extra touch of holiday magic.
- Louisiana Ladies Dance Team: Get ready to be wowed by the grace and talent of the Louisiana Ladies Dance Team as they dance their way into your hearts.
- Be Hooper Be Happy Hula Hoopers: These hula hoopers are not your average hoopers; they glow in the dark, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
- St. Tammany Parish Fire District 12: Our local heroes from Fire District 12 will be there, big red fire engine and all!
- Adorable Dogs from St. Tammany Parish's Animal Services Shelter: Prepare for some heartwarming moments as these lovable dogs join the parade. Some of them are dressed as reindeer and some looking for their forever homes, making this parade extra special.
Musical Magic and More!
The parade is just the beginning of the fun! After the parade, performances will kick off at 6:15 p.m. and continue until 8 p.m. Between opening night on December 1, the following night (December 2) and following weekend, (December 8 and 9) more than 20 local schools and organizations will take the stage, performing holiday songs that will warm your heart. Can't make it to a performance? Don't worry! Each night's yuletide carolers will be aired on St. Tammany Parish's website, alongside their government access channel, STPG-TV, ensuring you don't miss a beat of the holiday magic.
New Additions and Beloved Favorites
This year's Holiday of Lights event promises even more excitement with several fantastic additions:
- Snow Machines: Experience the magic of a winter wonderland in Louisiana with snow machines that'll transport your family to a snowy paradise.
- Laser Light Display: Prepare to be mesmerized by a laser light display that will illuminate the night and create an enchanting atmosphere.
- Expanded Kids' Arts & Crafts Area: Let your kids' creativity run wild with expanded arts and crafts activities that will keep them entertained and engaged.
Of course, beloved favorites are back too:
- Carnival Rides: Thrill-seekers of all ages will find plenty of fun on the carnival rides.
- Food Truck Delights: Explore a diverse selection of food trucks offering mouthwatering treats and delicious bites.
- Tram Ride Tours: Take a scenic tram ride tour through the holiday displays and soak in the beauty of the season.
- Pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus: Capture timeless memories with Mr. and Mrs. Claus in the charming Kids Konnection Playground's caboose.
Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive: Drive-Thru Lights Until December 31
The fun doesn't end on December 9! After that date, the Holiday of Lights continues as a drive-thru experience on Koop Drive until December 31. The twinkling lights will illuminate the night from dusk through dawn, ensuring that the holiday spirit lingers long after the parade ends.
A Community Tradition
In 2022, after a years-long hiatus, the Holiday of Lights returned and welcomed an estimated 20,000 visitors! As it approaches its quarter-century anniversary, the Holiday of Lights has become an integral part of the Northshore's holiday celebrations, bringing families together to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
Stay in the Loop
To stay up to date on all the exciting announcements and updates for the 24th Annual Holiday of Lights, make sure to visit St. Tammany Parish Government's social media channels or check out the Holiday of Lights Website. The anticipation is building, and we can't wait to see you and your family at this year's Holiday of Lights event. Get ready to make cherished memories amidst the twinkling lights, festive melodies, and the spirit of the season—it's an adventure your family won't want to miss! For more things to do this Christmas, check out VisitTheNorthshore.com's 10 Ways to Holiday Page or request a copy of our Winter Visitors’ Guide!
