Lighting the Sky

No one knows exactly how the tradition of lighting bonfires along the levees that line the Mississippi River arose. Some have explained it as an old Pagan tradition absorbed into Christianity. The more practical-minded have surmised that the fires helped guide visitors to boat slips or that they were just the easiest, most enjoyable way to be rid of accumulated driftwood. However the tradition began, we know why it continues today: because the sight of dozens of bonfires lighting up the winter sky along the river is one of the most arresting sights of a Louisiana holiday season.

On Christmas Eve (unless it rains, then on New Year’s Eve), 120 large bonfires along the lower river basin will flare up, accompanied by a fair measure of fireworks (we don’t party halfway down here). This free, family-friendly event features bonfires in all sort of configurations; many are the traditional “tepee” shape, but others have been built in shapes of ships, plantation homes, and any number of other creative layouts. You can watch from dry land, where the security and traffic control are excellent and you can wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, or for an especially authentic and exciting experience, you can participate in a boat tour and see the fires from the river, as earlier residents of the area would have. Whatever your pleasure, just be sure to make some plan to see this beautiful tradition, older than the United States but still going strong in New Orleans Plantation Country.

For more information, go to VisitNOPC.com/bonfire.