Two of New Orleans’ favorite destinations are celebrating one magical season together. Holidays at Audubon runs from November 27, 2026 through January 3, 2027 at Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium, with every holiday festivity included with admission or a valid Audubon Membership.
At the Aquarium, Santa trades his sleigh for scuba gear: Scuba Santa makes a splash in the Great Maya Reef exhibit, while families can capture photos with Santa Claus in The Cove on select dates and step into the sparkling Snowflake Lobby, a winter wonderland in the heart of the city. There is holiday shopping, too, with unique gifts and seasonal treasures.
At the Zoo, the season gets a Louisiana twist. Papa Noël — the Cajun Santa — poses for photos in the Louisiana Swamp on select dates, animals enjoy themed holiday enrichment, and festive decorations bring traditional charm to the paths. Families can also give old string lights a new purpose through Lights for Lions, dropping off discarded lights at the Zoo to support lion conservation.
The season closes with Zoo Year’s Eve on December 31, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.: a kid-friendly dance party, festive paper crowns and a special countdown to noon, so little party animals can ring in 2027 right on schedule — nap time included.
Photo: Audubon Nature Institute
