For most visitors and locals, this is the highlight of the Holiday Season in New Orleans. A holiday tradition that has been going on since 1946, Christmas Caroling in Jackson Square is a joyful, fun experience that thousands of people participate in every year. Held on the Sunday before Christmas, Jackson Square is illuminated by hundreds of candles held by singers, both amateur and professional, crooning Christmas favorites that everyone is familiar with. The event is free and open to all who wish to participate, regardless of religious affiliation.

Candles and song sheets are provided, courtesy of Patio Planters, the event’s major sponsor. A nonprofit group dedicated to the horticultural beautification of the French Quarter, Patio Planters helps fund the event through monies raised by its Vieux Carre holiday home tours earlier on the same day. Those who plan to attend and participate are strongly advised to arrive early. This is a very popular event that sometimes exceeds the capacity of the square.