Spirit of Christmas, Destrehan | A Louisiana Holiday Tradition

Louisiana holiday magic beneath the oaks.

A family-friendly holiday light experience benefiting Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center.

Buy Tickets

See Some Magic

DATES

November 27-29
December 4-6, 11-13, 18-30

HOURS

5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

ADMISSION

$5 • Ages 4 and under free

PARKING

Free

LOCATION

Destrehan Plantation

13034 River Rd
Destrehan, LA 70047

Closed December 24–25 and during inclement weather.

Holiday lights beneath the historic oak trees at Spirit of Christmas in Destrehan, Louisiana

Five acres of wonder.

Spirit of Christmas is a quarter-mile holiday light tour winding through five acres of stately oak trees. Along the way, discover illuminated displays, decorated Christmas trees, a glowing tunnel and a distinctly Louisiana presentation of The Cajun Night Before Christmas by Trosclair.

Your visit makes a difference.

Proceeds benefit Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center and its horse-assisted programs for children and adults with disabilities.

Spirit the therapy horse wearing a Santa hat at Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center

The therapy horse behind the name.

Meet Spirit.

Spirit of Christmas is named for Spirit, one of GNOTRC’s cherished therapy horses. His connection gives this Louisiana holiday tradition its heart—and reminds every visitor that the celebration supports horse-assisted programs for children and adults with disabilities.

Spirit’s legacy reflects the welcoming, life-changing work at the center of GNOTRC’s mission.

Christmas,
lit Louisiana-style.

Visitors entering the Spirit of Christmas holiday light experience at Destrehan Plantation

A little wonder
at every turn.

Bring the whole family, take your time along the trail and
enjoy a Louisiana Christmas night.

Meet Santa

Enjoy a festive holiday visit with Santa on select event nights, filled with joyful family cheer.

Child enjoying a festive visit with Santa at Spirit of Christmas in Destrehan

A Cajun Christmas

Experience The Cajun Night Before Christmas, the beloved story by Trosclair.

Family Favorites

Enjoy caroling, duck races, character greetings, and colorful light projections.

Christmas carolers performing at the Spirit of Christmas holiday event in Destrehan

Treats & Pony Rides

Savor holiday treats and enjoy children’s pony rides, available for purchase.

Children meeting a pony during the Spirit of Christmas family holiday event

Help the Magic Shine.

Plan your visit, reserve your tickets, and help support therapeutic riding for children and adults with disabilities.

Plan Your
Visit.

Destrehan Plantation – Alley of the Oaks 13034 River Road, Destrehan, Louisiana

Conveniently located off Exit 6 from I-310. Free parking is available.

Weather updates: Check our Facebook page before leaving on nights when rain is possible.

What dates and hours is Spirit of Christmas open?

Spirit of Christmas is open November 27–29 and December 4–6, 11–13, and 18–30, 2026, from 5:30 PM–8:30 PM. We’re closed December 24–25 and during inclement weather. Please check our Facebook page for weather updates before visiting.

How much is admission?

Admission is $5. Children ages 4 and under enter free.

What is the light trail like?

Spirit of Christmas is a quarter-mile walking trail through five acres of oak trees, featuring holiday light displays, decorated Christmas trees, and a glowing tunnel. Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the trail at your own pace.

Where is the event?

Destrehan Plantation – Alley of the Oaks
13034 River Road, Destrehan, Louisiana. Conveniently located off Exit 6 from I-310.

Get Directions →

When will Santa be there?

Santa is confirmed for December 4–6 and December 11–13. Additional appearance dates will be announced as they are confirmed. Santa’s final appearance will be December 23.

Are food and activities included?

Santa visits and many activities are included. Holiday treats, snacks and pony rides cost extra.

Is parking available?

Yes. Parking is free.

What happens if it rains?

Weather updates: Check our Facebook page before leaving on nights when rain is possible. The event closes during inclement weather.

What does my admission support?

Proceeds benefit Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center and its horse-assisted programs for children and adults with disabilities.

How can I contact you?

Questions? Email info@spiritofchristmasla.org or call 504-466-9960.

Illustrated map to Spirit of Christmas at Destrehan Plantation, located off Exit 6 from I-310 in Destrehan, Louisiana

Spark your holiday season with Spirit of Christmas.