Is transportation included to the plantation?

Yes, round-trip transportation is included with departures from either New Orleans or Metairie; a self-drive option is also available but excludes transportation.

Yes, a Cajun-style dinner featuring jambalaya, baked chicken, vegetables, bread, and dessert is included.

Is the tour family-friendly?

Absolutely, the experience is suitable for all ages, with engaging tours and festive activities.

Are alcohol beverages provided?

Beer and wine are available for purchase at a cash bar; they are not included in the ticket price.

Can guests visit the gift shop?

Yes, the plantation gift shop remains open until 7:50 p.m., before the bus departure.

Are guided tours available?

Yes, guests receive a guided tour of the Big House and a self-guided tour of the grounds, including visits to the Spirit of Christmas Light Exhibit.

Experience the Cajun Holiday Bonfire Celebration at Destrehan Plantation Near New Orleans

Each December, just upriver from New Orleans along the mighty Mississippi River, a rare holiday tradition comes alive that draws locals and visitors alike to the riverside levee. Gray Line offers an exclusive chance to experience Louisiana's enchanting Cajun Holiday Bonfire Celebration at the historic Destrehan Plantation. This 4 hour and 45 minute adventure immerses travelers in infectious holiday spirit while unveiling a deep slice of regional heritage and vibrant local flavors.

Destrehan Plantation, located on River Road in Destrehan, Louisiana, serves as the perfect backdrop. The plantation grounds are steeped in history, featuring a grand Big House built in the late 18th century and lush landscapes punctuated by towering oak trees. As part of your evening, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the Big House, plus a stroll through the self-guided grounds tour, including the Spirit of Christmas Light Exhibit. This exhibit breathes life into the South’s holiday tradition with more than 75 lighted displays lining the Alley of Oaks—a quarter-mile walk sure to enchant.

The highlight of this trip lies in the bonfire tradition itself. Along the levee, towering bonfires blaze bright, lighting the way for "Papa Noel," Louisiana’s version of Santa Claus, on Christmas Eve. This centuries-old ritual is a symbol of community and hope, creating a powerful and authentic connection to the region's culture. Guests get an intimate, private bonfire viewing that offers a glimpse of this fierce celebration of Southern heritage.

Before basking in the warmth of the fires, guests enjoy a Cajun-style dinner at Destrehan Plantation featuring traditional favorites like jambalaya, baked chicken, fresh vegetables, bread, and luscious desserts such as bread pudding or brookies. A cash bar offers beer and wine to round out the flavors of the evening.

This thoughtfully curated experience departs from convenient locations in New Orleans or Metairie, or alternatively, guests can choose a self-drive option. Gray Line’s expert guides share insights into Louisiana’s Creole and Cajun customs along the way, blending history, cuisine, and festivity.

Why book this trip? Beyond its festive charm, this event connects travelers to an authentic local holiday spectacle that’s unique to the Mississippi River region. The plantation’s historic setting, combined with immersive storytelling and the dramatic bonfire display, makes this a standout seasonal adventure. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of South Louisiana’s cultural heritage or simply want to enjoy a heartwarming holiday outing with friends and family, the Cajun Holiday Bonfire Celebration is an unforgettable way to experience the spirit of the season just moments from New Orleans.

About New Orleans Steamboat Company

New Orleans Steamboat Company operates historic riverboat cruises and guided excursions based in New Orleans, Louisiana. The company offers a range of Mississippi River sightseeing and jazz cruises aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS and seasonal sailings on the Steamboat NATCHEZ, plus swamp, plantation, walking, and specialty small-group tours.

Cruise experiences include daytime and evening sightseeing jazz cruises with live music performed by the Dukes of Dixieland, multiple dinner seating options with Creole buffets or plated lunches, brunch sailings, seasonal party packages, and holiday-themed departures such as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve events. Land-based offerings include swamp and airboat adventures, guided tours to Oak Alley and Whitney plantations, craft cocktail and cooking walking tours, cemetery and Garden District strolls, and interactive ghost and spirits walks in the French Quarter.

Each trip description lists duration, meal options when applicable, live music or narration, and onboard amenities such as full-service bars and multiple observation decks. Local guides provide historical context about New Orleans, the Mississippi River, Jean Lafitte, and regional wetlands and wildlife on swamp and plantation tours. Many cruises feature live jazz and family-friendly programming; several airboat and swamp tours emphasize wildlife viewing opportunities.

Bookings are arranged per listed trip schedules and seating times. As a long-established New Orleans operator featured by tour aggregators and known for narrated riverboat cruises, the company combines maritime tradition with local culture to deliver interpretive sightseeing and entertainment on and off the water. Public and private group bookings are available for many departures.