At a news conference held at Mardi Gras World on Nov.10, details were unveiled for the first-of-its-kind Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade which will take place in downtown New Orleans on Dec. 3 starting at 11 a.m.
Kicking off the holiday season, the more than 20 float parade will include custom-designed holiday themed floats that include animatronic props, intelligent lighting systems, special effects, and audio systems, along with traditional rider floats.
“Children’s Hospital is excited to help bring a world-class, kid and family-centered holiday parade to the City of New Orleans this December,” said John R. Nickens IV, president and CEO of Children’s Hospital New Orleans. “We invite the community to join us for an afternoon of joy and fun as we kickoff the holiday season together.”
The parade will also feature high-flying helium balloons, along with marching groups and bands – and of course, Santa with a cast of holiday characters.
“New Orleans during the holidays is one of the most wonderful times of the year for our community,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “The Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade is an exciting addition to all that our city has to offer for its citizens and visitors alike during this magical time of year.”
The Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade is made possible in partnership with the Downtown Development District, NewOrleans.com, the French Market Corporation, WDSU and many other supporters. Float sponsors include B1 Bank, Chick-fil-A New Orleans, the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, The National WWII Museum, Louisiana Feed Your Soul, and Audacy.
"The Downtown Development District is pleased to continue its support of the City's Holiday Parade,” said Downtown Development District President and CEO Davon Barbour. “In partnering with Kern Studios, this year's parade will be bigger and better than ever with national exposure. We take our responsibility as advocates for the Downtown community very seriously and believe that this reimagining of the parade will serve as a significant economic boost to Downtown businesses."
The Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade will begin at the corner of Esplanade Ave. and North Peters St., traveling North Peters to Decatur St. through the French Market toward Jackson Square and Oscar Dunn Park. The parade will then make its way back to North Peters, turning right on Canal St., left on Baronne St., traveling through downtown to Julia St., and ending along St. Charles Ave. in front of Lafayette Square, where the holiday festivities will continue from 1-3 p.m. with music from Rebirth Brass Band, food, and more.
To learn more about the Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade, Lafayette Square Holiday Experience, and sponsorship opportunities, visit nolaholidayparade.com.