Don’t Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle
The holidays are rolling into Houma, and the bayou is buzzing with festive cheer! From parades and boat floats to Santa sightings and family-friendly events, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season. Here’s a closer look at the must-see Christmas happenings in Houma:
Papa Noel’s 12 Cajun Nights of Christmas Swamp Tour 
For a one-of-a-kind Cajun holiday experience, hop on Papa Noel’s 12 Cajun Nights of Christmas Swamp Tour. Cruise the bayou as it twinkles with festive lights and decorations. Along the way, you might spot some swamp critters and enjoy the quiet, magical glow of the water, all topped off by a visit from Papa Noel himself. It’s a perfect mix of holiday cheer and true bayou charm. Starting the weekend after Thanksgiving and running until Christmas Eve, this swamp tour is filled with Cajun Christmas stories and carols, pictures with Papa Noel and a whole lot of fun for the entire family. $30 adults, $25 kids under 12, $5 parking.
Downtown Christmas Festival & Parade – December 6
Kick off the season at Houma’s Courthouse Square for the Downtown Christmas Festival. Explore local vendors offering crafts, gifts, and holiday treats, and enjoy live music that keeps the streets lively. The Christmas Parade follows, featuring dazzling floats, marching bands, and community groups celebrating the season. Stick around for the tree lighting as it’s the perfect moment to soak in the magic of the holidays with your friends and family.
Whiskey & Cookies with Santa – December 6
Kick off the season with a fun, grown-up twist on a holiday classic! Whiskey & Cookies with Santa is a chance for adults to sip festive cocktails while kids enjoy cookies and a photo with Santa. It’s a playful way to celebrate the season as a family, with a little holiday cheer for everyone.
Breakfast with Santa – December 20
Start the day with pancakes, laughter, and Santa! Breakfast with Santa is a family-friendly event where kids can meet Santa, participate in crafts or games, and enjoy a hearty holiday pancake breakfast at Houma Elks Lodge. It’s a morning full of smiles, good food, and festive memories. $5 members, $10 non-members
Christmas Boat Parade on Bayou Terrebonne – December 20
The Christmas Boat Parade is one of Houma’s most unique holiday traditions. Locals decorate their boats with sparkling lights and festive décor, floating along Bayou Terrebonne at sunset. Santa himself waves from his float, and families gather along the banks to watch the reflections dance on the water.
Houma’s Christmas celebrations are all about slowing down, enjoying the community, and soaking in the bayou holiday spirit. With parades, boat tours, family breakfasts, and swamp adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
