NEW ORLEANS — New this year, NOLA ChristmasFest is bringing even more joy to visitors with the addition of Merry Mini Golf, a holly jolly twist on the classic game bringing fun for the whole family. Hosted by the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this annual celebration presented by Coca-Cola is marking its 11th year with 11 days of holiday cheer from Dec. 20 to Dec. 30, 2024. Tickets for NOLA ChristmasFest are now available for purchase at nolachristmasfest.com.
Santa Claus made a special trip to the Convention Center to test out his swing on the new mini golf course. “Ho, ho, ho! NOLA ChristmasFest has always been a magical place to celebrate the holidays,” said Santa Claus in a prepared statement. “This year, I’m really looking forward to trying out the new Merry Mini Golf and putting my putting skills to the test with all of you. I can’t wait to see all the smiling faces and holiday cheer. Let’s make this season the merriest one yet!”
NOLA ChristmasFest adds even more thrills and chills with its fourth ice slide, giving visitors another exciting way to enjoy the icy fun. In addition, the brand-new Yuletide YoYo ride brings a whimsical, high-flying twist to the festivities, adding a dash of adventure for carnival enthusiasts. Combined with the debut of Merry Mini Golf, these fresh attractions make 2024’s event the most dynamic yet, offering something for everyone to enjoy in the indoor festival.
Returning with a new theme, “Best in Snow,” NOLA ChristmasFest invites visitors to experience an array of holiday magic across 300,000 square feet of indoor fun. Guests can enjoy beloved attractions like the Big Blizzard Blast, the Kringle Carousel and the life-sized Gingerbread House, as well as live music, concessions, visits with Santa and more. New Orleans’ only ice-skating rink is back alongside ice bocce for even more winter fun.
“We’re grateful that Santa could bring a little North Pole magic down and test out his aim on the new Merry Mini Golf course,” said Michael J. Sawaya, Convention Center President and CEO. “Over the years, NOLA ChristmasFest has become a favorite tradition for local families and a popular outing for locals and visitors. This addition is just one more way we are building on our city’s holiday spirit by offering a fresh experience that brings even more joy to the season. We look forward to welcoming guests of all ages to enjoy our indoor winter wonderland and make lasting memories together.”
Santa will be making another special visit on Sunday, Dec. 22, 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. when he returns for the popular Skating with Santa experience. Special tickets for this exclusive session cost $65 for adults and $45 for kids. These tickets sell out fast, so purchase yours soon to skate with Santa and enjoy hot cocoa, coffee, doughnuts and other delights – all before the doors open for entry to the first regular session of the day.
To see a full schedule of events, visit nolachristmasfest.com/
NOLA ChristmasFest Schedule
- Dec. 20: 4:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Dec. 21 – 23: 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Dec. 24: Christmas Eve, 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Dec 25: Christmas Day, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Dec. 26 – 30: 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Tickets are $25 for weekdays and $30 for Saturdays and Sundays. Each ticket is valid for a single admission on the specific day and session selected. Each session is 4.5 hours in length, except on Christmas Day. Invite a friend and mark your calendars for NOLA ChristmasFest 2024 and Skating with Santa! Purchase tickets online at nolachristmasfest.com/plan-
NOLA ChristmasFest 2024 is a credit card-only event, including ticket purchases and onsite concessions.