Manning Family Children’s Holiday Parade

Who says you have to wait until Carnival season to catch a parade in New Orleans? Around here, we celebrate Christmas the same way we celebrate just about everything else — with colorful floats, marching bands, dancing in the streets, plenty of throws, and admission is free!

The annual Manning Family Children’s Holiday Parade brings a little Mardi Gras magic to the holiday season, and the best part is that it’s all for a wonderful cause.

A Holiday Parade, New Orleans-Style

Presented in support of Manning Family Children’s Hospital, this festive celebration features 30 elaborately decorated holiday floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, dancing groups, and plenty of Christmas cheer.

The parade winds its way through the historic French Quarter and downtown New Orleans, transforming familiar streets into a winter wonderland — minus the snow, of course.

And because this is New Orleans, you can expect more than the usual candy canes and Christmas carols. There are special holiday throws, larger-than-life decorations, and enough excitement to make even the biggest Scrooge crack a smile.

A Parade with Heart

What makes this parade especially meaningful is the cause behind it. Manning Family Children’s Hospital has been caring for Louisiana’s children for more than 70 years, providing specialized pediatric care to families throughout the Gulf South.

The parade celebrates the hospital’s patients, families, doctors, nurses, and everyone who helps make its mission possible. It’s a wonderful reminder that the holidays are about giving as much as receiving.

Why We Love It

Only in New Orleans could Christmas feel so much like Mardi Gras! We love seeing families lining the streets, little ones perched on their parents’ shoulders, and everyone getting into the holiday spirit together. Add in the fact that this parade supports children who need our help, and you’ve got one of the sweetest traditions of the season.

Parade Route: The parade begins near the French Market, travels through the French Quarter and continues along Canal Street and through downtown, ending near Tchoupitoulas and Andrew Higgins streets.

Our Tip: Get there early to find a good spot along the route, especially if you’re bringing little ones. And while you’re downtown, why not make a day of it? Enjoy a holiday lunch, stroll through the French Quarter or do a little Christmas shopping on Royal Street.

For the latest parade information, visit nolaholidayparade.com.