Central Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Central and surrounding areas
Central welcomes Winter 2025 with a lineup of festive events and Holiday lights stretching through neighborhoods around the Baton Rouge Zoo and downtown areas. Don’t miss Baton Rouge Zoo's Zoo Lights or the 39th Annual Christmas in Central Parade for family-friendly flair and seasonal tours. Local markets, seasonal entertainment and a variety of holiday activities make Central a lively place to enjoy winter festivals and community celebrations.
Find the best Central Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
9 eventsHundreds of artisan vendors in a festive holiday market
Christmas Lights
5 eventsThousands of dazzling lights illuminating the zoo.
Christmas Shows
5 eventsA classic holiday ballet performed by the Hammond Ballet Company.
Christmas Activities
7 eventsCajun-style Christmas festival with traditional bonfires.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Baton Rouge Zoo's Zoo Lights
(Baker)
Thousands of dazzling lights illuminating the zoo.
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Louisiana Lights
(Baton Rouge)
Historic gardens transformed by holiday lights
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The Nutcracker
(Hammond)
A classic holiday ballet performed by the Hammond Ballet Company.
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Christmas Extravaganza Arts & Crafts Expo
(Covington)
Hundreds of artisan vendors in a festive holiday market
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The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou
(Baton Rouge)
A Tale from the Bayou Nutcracker with live orchestra
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Jingle Jeepin' Parade & Market
(Port Allen)
Jeep parade and artisan Christmas market
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Central
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Central.
Christmas in July Toy Drive
Experience a unique 'Christmas in July' toy drive event in Laplace, where festive...
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Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Central
- Central LA Christmas Shopping with Snow Published: Sat, Nov 22, 2025
- Holiday Market for Christmas Shopping in Cenla Published: Sat, Nov 15, 2025
Central Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Central
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Central!
Central Christmas FAQ
Central's biggest annual Christmas events often include the downtown holiday festival and the widely anticipated Christmas market. These events typically feature a variety of vendors, entertainment, and festive activities.
Central often celebrates with community tree lighting ceremonies and neighborhood decorating contests that highlight local spirit. Many residents also enjoy gathering for caroling events in the historic districts.
The historic downtown area and the residential neighborhoods surrounding Central Park are known for their spectacular Christmas lights. Many streets in these areas are adorned with dazzling displays each year.
You can find Christmas markets and local makers throughout Central, particularly in the downtown square and at various community centers. Keep an eye out for pop-up artisan markets that appear during the holiday season.
Enjoying the neighborhood Christmas lights, attending free tree lighting ceremonies, and browsing the festive displays at local markets are excellent free or budget-friendly options in Central. Many parks also offer beautiful seasonal decorations.
Families with kids in Central will love visiting the local Christmas markets for crafts and treats, finding Santa meet-and-greets, and exploring the dazzling neighborhood light displays. Many community events also offer kid-friendly entertainment.