Holiday Christmas Cheer: December 14—16
One more Saturday of holly jollies before Christmas is upon us!
Statewide Baton Rouge, Louisiana

With the big day almost upon us, here's a final burst of Christmas events large and small, briefly noted:
December 14–16
• Southern Sleigh Rides, New Iberia: Enjoy the historic streets of downtown New Ibera decked out in their holiday finery from a seasonal horse-drawn sleigh. Fun for the whole family, with food and drinks available for purchase. Rides start at the Sliman Theatre. $25. (337) 207-5670.
December 15
• Light Up the Lake Christmas Festival, Lake Charles: [Rescheduled from November 30 due to inclement weather] Santa’s Workshop begins at noon, followed by Movies with the Mayor at 3:30 pm, a lighted boat parade at 6 pm, and fireworks to titularly illuminate the water at 6:45. At the Lake Charles Civic Center. visitlakecharles.org.
• Old Time Christmas Family Day, Lafayette: The community is invited to experience the simple warmth and beauty of Christmas past as Vermilionville’s historic village brings to life the holiday traditions of yesteryear. Visitors will have the opportunity to take a self-guided tour of the village and witness wintertime traditional demonstrations such as soap and candle making, santons (“little saints”), citrus pomanders, and more. Children will enjoy writing letters to Santa, making bousillage ornaments, decorating Christmas cookies, singing carols and of course, meeting Papa Noel. $5 admission. 10 am–4 pm. vermilionville.org
• Cajun Christmas at Big Branch, Lacombe: Each year Santa and Mrs. Claus make a special visit to the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center. Kids of all ages are invited for story time, cookies, and hot cocoa. 2pm–4pm. Free. (985) 882-2025.