‘Tis the season to be jolly in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou! Here in Lafourche Parish, we’re known for our unique Cajun culture, and we amp it up just a little bit more at Christmastime. We have a few special traditions you won’t find in other spots around the planet.
Instead of Santa Claus arriving on Christmas Eve, children all along the bayou eagerly await the appearance of Papa Noel. Similar to Santa (but -- dare we say – better) Papa Noel leaves toys for the kids, but he ditches the flying sleigh and reindeer and instead travels via pirogue, which is basically a Cajun canoe, along the waters of the bayou. And – BIG bonus – that pirogue is pulled by alligators instead of reindeer!
Yeah. We know. How could it get better? Well … we light bonfires along the bayou to help Papa Noel find his way to each and every home to deliver his toys. On Christmas Eve, you see little bonfires along the bayou – best spotted if you travel by boat, but please be sure you don’t get in Papa Noel’s way and slow down his journey!
In case you want to journey by land rather than water, this year, Lafourche Parish is home to three Christmas parades that will take place on streets along the bayou. Here are the details:
December 5: 3:00 PM
Starting at John L. Guidry Stadium at Nicholls State University, the Thibodaux Christmas Parade winds through downtown and ends near Jean Lafitte National Park’s Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center. Anyone from businesses to babies can walk in the parade at no charge, though participants must fill out a waiver prior to walking the route. What we’re saying here is that even if you’re a visitor to our area, we invite you to join the fun!
Golden Meadow Shrimp Boil and Christmas Parade
December 11: 9:00 AM
Join the Golden Meadow Rotary at their annual shrimp boil. This year, attendees can enjoy a craft show (9 AM), food (11 AM), and Christmas parade (2 PM). Don’t forget to stick around after the parade is over, because they’ll be showing The Polar Express!
December 18: 2:00 PM
The town of Lockport features a variety of lighted floats and live music at its annual Christmas Parade. Following the parade, visit the Lockport Community Center for a movie night with Papa Noel and friends. Get your picture with Papa Noel and enjoy delicious food, a hot chocolate bar, and a holiday movie.
Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday. We hope to see you at the parades this month as we celebrate our parish, our people and the arrival of Papa Noel!
