Cajun Christmas - Bonfires on Mississippi River Levee

Here is a small video clip of Christmas eve on the Mississippi river in south Louisiana. This is a yearly tradition, mostly in the "River Parishes" (St. James, St. John and St. Charles parishes) and on the east side of river. The tradition is, depending on who you speak to, either to light the way for Papa Noel (cajun french Santa figure). Others say it is to help guide ships on the river, during December fog in Louisiana. Others say it is to help guide the faithful Catholics to Midnight Mass on Christmas. Whatever the belief, it is still a strong tradition, that still happens to this day on christmas eve. The River parishes are located between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. I have been numerous times and the bonfires can get quite large and really detailed and ALOT of work goes into them. I also would HIGHLY recommend attempting to go once in a lifetime, if possible. Thanks

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  Travel & Events

[bette0329]

Thanks for posting. I grew up in Baton Rouge and we loved to go to the levee on Christmas Eve. It's been 40 years since I saw them. Your video brings back lots of memories.

[46LCG]

We used to go to my husband's aunt's house in Sunshine right across from the levee for the bonfires. Oone year we all went to Midnight Mass at the little church down the road...wonderful memories!

[ginny46922]

that was just so different.



[Leroux Louisiana]

Joyeux Noël et Nouvelle Année Heureuse

[MeannieGreenieMonsta]

ah yes. us Cajuns welcoming Papa Noel. I'm ususally there every Christmas Eve.