Christmas New Orleans Style

 
Let us go back to the 1950's through the 1980's when life was simple and the songs were about love in this great city on the Mississippi River. Christmas was a magical time and Canal Street was the center of that magic. Stores like Goudchaux's and Maison Blanche decked out their windows with colorful displays. Mr. Bingle, the funny little snowman with the ice cream cone hat was on every child's mind. Christmas dinner was a true feast, with several generations of families in attendance. My husband's Mother was Italian and Irish and the feasts that she prepared would put some chefs to shame.

There was something magical about Christmas in New Orleans. Whether it was the lighting displays in the park and later in the 1990's at the home of Al Copeland (Popeye's Chicken), the Christmas on the Bayou boat parade or the bonfires on the levee, the multicultural population made the Holiday celebration exceptional.
 

A Holiday Dinner Menu in Many New Orleans Homes

Roasted Turkey or Baked Ham
Oyster Dressing
Stuffed Mirlitons
Cranberry Sauce
Sweet Potatoes
Italian Salad
Twisted Italian Bread with poppy seeds (Usually from Gambino's Bakery.)
Bread Pudding
 

 
New Orleans is unique to say the least. This primarily Catholic city has been a melting pot for many cultures for many years, dating back to before the Louisiana Purchase. The French and Spanish influence is still evident in the architecture and customs. Because of this, New Orleans and most of South Louisiana is set apart from the rest of the state. It is almost as if there are 2 very different states. Holiday celebrations are steeped in and influenced by the traditions of the European ethnic groups, including French, Acadian (Cajun), Spanish, Italian, Irish, German, Creole, African-American and several other groups that settled there.