Sleigh what? Oh, that’s right! We’re about to hit the holidays, and with the temperatures dropping, the snuggle is real. This week, we’re bringing you ways to fill your cup with holiday cheer and how to celebrate the most brunchable time of the year. But wait, there’s myrrh – weekend happenings! Just think of the places yule go. So grab all your jingle ladies and bro-bro-bros and sleigh it by enjoying some of the fun this weekend.

Holiday Drinking Guide

It wouldn’t be Christmas in New Orleans without a few magical cocktails and bar experiences to match! From spiked eggnog, snowball old-fashioned drinks and raspberry candy cane cocktails, we’ve got the guide to answer all of your Christmas bar-hopping questions. 

The Most Wonderful (Brunch) Time Of The Year

B’Reveillon is Reveillon’s cooler, 30-something cousin who keeps a bottle of the best Champagne on deck and never wakes up before 9 a.m. This new tradition of the holiday brunch has that same Christmas magic as Reveillon dinner, we just get to enjoy it before the twinkling lights and inflatable snowmen turn on. Here’s a roundup of our favorite b’Reveillon spots!

From Broken Ballerina to Burlesque Ambassador

When Trixie Minx first arrived in the Crescent City in 2001, both her dreams of being a professional ballerina and her ankle had been broken. But in New Orleans things fell into place. Now she’s one of New Orleans’ leading ambassadors for the art of burlesque. Click here to read more of Trixie Minx’s story.

What’s Happening This Weekend

Friday, Dec. 13

Furry Holiday Photos | 4 to 6 p.m. | Zeus’ Place Downtown | Free of $10 for printout

It’s the last chance to get the purr-fect holiday pictures with your pets! We’ve got props or you can bring your own costumes to the shoot. Digital copies of the pictures are free, and you can print out your own copy (for the fridge!) for $10.

Community Night Out – Freddie’s Chicken N’ Waffles | 6 to 9 p.m. | 3518 Kabel Drive | Price varies

According to organizers, Where Black NOLA Eats, this awesome restaurant was recently burglarized. The restaurant’s safe was stolen, and the business needs the support of the community to continue. Click here to find out more information and here to see our review of this great Westbank spot. 

Saturday, Dec. 14

Jingle on the Boulevard Parade | Noon | Begins at St. Maria Goretti Church | Free

It’s the second year for New Orleans East’s very own Christmas parade. The parade features floats and throws, of course, and many of the school marching bands and units throughout the city. Click here to see the parade route. 

Lights on the Lake | 2 to 8 p.m. | New Canal Lighthouse | $5 entry fee, children 12 and under are free

You can check out music, visit a holiday marketplace featuring local vendors and buy food and hot toddies from area food trucks. It’s a party for a cause, and proceeds go to benefit the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation. Click here to read see our Guide for the ‘Gram on this unique New Orleans holiday parade.

Sunday, Dec. 15

Music Box Studio — Holiday Art Market | 12 to 5 p.m. | Music Box Village | Free to attend

Visit the Music Box Village’s holiday market in the 9th Ward featuring local handmade items and vintage art, apparel, homewares and more.

Mid-City Holiday Market | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Comiskey Park | Free to attend

Can’t make the holiday market in the 9th Ward? This one in Mid-City features local artists and crafters, live music, family-friendly entertainment, food and activities.

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What Else You Should Know