Cajun Christmas Bonfire Celebration and Dinner
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The small communities just upriver from New Orleans are home to a unique holiday tradition - building, lighting and gathering around towering bonfires along the Mississippi River levee to light the way for "Papa Noel," Santa Claus, on Christmas Eve. A Gray Line exclusive, this intimate guided experience brings locals and visitors together for a private Cajun dinner and bonfire experience at Destrehan Plantation.
After a short motorcoach ride, you'll arrive at Destrehan Plantation for a guided tour of the Big House and self-guided tour of the grounds, featuring the new Spirit of Christmas Light Exhibit. Continue the evening with a delicious Cajun-style dinner featuring local favorites that capture the flavors of Christmastime. Stop by the cash bar to purchase beer and wine, before heading to the bonfire site.
The highlight of the night is a private bonfire viewing, giving guests a preview of the Christmas Eve bonfires on the Mississippi River levee.
Available options
Cajun Christmas Experience
Cajun Holiday Bonfire & Dinner: Includes Transportation, Destrehan Plantation Tour, Cajun Dinner, and a Bonfire Viewing. (4.75 hours)
What's included
Spirit of Christmas Light Exhibit
Cash Bar Onsite with Beer & Wine for Purchase
Expert Tour Guide Sharing Local Holiday Traditions
Salad, Jambalaya, Baked Chicken, Vegetable of Choice, Bread, Bread Pudding or Brookies
Round-trip Transportation
Bonfire Viewing at Destrehan Plantation
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Board your coach bus here to begin your tour. Boarding begins at 3:45pm.
2
Stop 2
After a short motorcoach ride, you'll arrive at Destrehan Plantation for a guided tour of the Big House and self-guided tour of the grounds, featuring the new Spirit of Christmas Light Exhibit. Continue the evening with a delicious Cajun-style dinner featuring local favorites that capture the flavors of Christmastime. Stop by the cash bar to purchase beer and wine, before heading to the bonfire site.
What's not included
Hotel pickup
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
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Tripadvisor
4.1
18 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or with mobility issues. Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
Meeting point
Departs from the Gray Line Lighthouse Ticket Office at Toulouse St. and the Mississippi River (at the Steamboat Natchez Dock), just one block from Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Please arrive 15 minutes before boarding.
Important notes
Please display your barcoded voucher as your ticket 15 minutes in advance of your tour time at our Lighthouse Ticket Office at Toulouse St. and the Mississippi River. All tours and cruises depart from here, at the Steamboat NATCHEZ dock (400 Toulouse St. New Orleans, LA 70130), directly behind the JAX Brewery.
If you have any questions, please contact us by email at tours@glnosc.com or by phone at (504) 569-1401.
About New Orleans
New Orleans is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique Creole and Cajun cuisine. It's famous for its annual Mardi Gras festival, historic French Quarter, and the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street.
Top Attractions
French Quarter
The heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Garden District
A picturesque neighborhood known for its antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic cemeteries.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, tours available
National WWII Museum
A world-class museum dedicated to the history of World War II, featuring immersive exhibits and personal stories.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate to expensive
City Park
A vast urban park featuring lush gardens, walking paths, and cultural attractions.
Nature
Half day
Free to enter, attractions vary
Frenchmen Street
A lively street known for its live music venues, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.
Entertainment
Evening
Varies by venue
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gumbo
A rich and flavorful stew made with a dark roux, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and celery).
Main Course
Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Jambalaya
A one-pot dish made with rice, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables, seasoned with a variety of spices.
Main Course
Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Beignets
A deep-fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar, often served with café au lait.
Dessert
Contains gluten and dairy.
Po' Boy
A classic New Orleans sandwich made with French bread, filled with fried seafood, meat, or vegetables, and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.
Sandwich
Can be made with various fillings, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Popular Activities
Swamp tours
Kayaking
Biking
Spa treatments
Park picnics
Café hopping
Museum visits
Historic site tours
Best Time to Visit
February to April
This is the best time to visit New Orleans, with pleasant weather and major events like Mardi Gras. The city is lively, but also more crowded and expensive.
15-25°C
60-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: French, Spanish, Vietnamese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
New Orleans is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis and rideshare services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance
Getting there
By air
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport • 15 miles (24 km) from downtown
By train
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city, but can be slow due to traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
French Quarter
Garden District
Warehouse District
Faubourg Marigny
Mid-City
Day trips
Plantation Country
30-40 miles (48-64 km) • Full day
Explore the historic plantations of Louisiana, with tours and exhibits showcasing the region's complex history.
Swamp and Bayou Tours
30-50 miles (48-80 km) • Half day to full day
Take a boat tour through the Louisiana swamps and bayous, with opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
Baton Rouge
80 miles (129 km) • Full day
Explore the capital of Louisiana, with its historic sites, museums, and universities.
Festivals
Mardi Gras • February or March (varies by year)
Jazz & Heritage Festival • Late April to early May (two weekends)
French Quarter Festival • April (four days)
Pro tips
- Visit during the off-peak season for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
- Try local cuisine and support local businesses and restaurants
- Use public transportation, such as buses and streetcars, to get around the city and save money
- Be cautious of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
