Christmas in New Orleans

"If your heart thrills to see the sights of a streetcar decked in holiday greenery and red velvet ribbon, this is the book for you . . . another welcome reminder of the special way we celebrate all those things here, in a living festival." -New Orleans Times-Picayune

"Inside is a lively story that weaves together the raucous early-day celebrations and the Christmastime city we know today . . . an incredible Christmas gift to Louisiana " -Louisiana Life

Oak trees are aglow with white twinkling lights, the scent of spicy gumbo fills the air, and the jolly sounds of Benny Grunch and the Bunch play on the radio. These are the sure signs that it is Christmas in the Crescent City, and naturally, New Orleanians celebrate the season with unique style. In this inviting volume, Peggy Scott Laborde and John Magill explore how locals of this eclectic city have observed the holiday from the 1800s to the present. From Christmas day feasts to decorations adorning picturesque homes along the avenue, this festive book fondly recalls a variety of traditions.

Readers are taken back two centuries, before the advent of electricity, when trees were illuminated with candlesticks, pious Creoles prayed in a church constructed of cypress logs, and eager children received presents of tin toys and porcelain teapots. There are reflections on the musings of Mr. Bingle, City Park's Celebration in the Oaks, and bonfires along the Mississippi River.

In twelve enlightening chapters, the authors cover many different aspects of Christmas, such as the celebrations in the French Quarter, the favored cuisine of the season, Hanukkah, and Twelfth Night. Complete with pictures from private and public collections, a r 1/2veillon recipe from Chef John Besh, and recollections from notable New Orleanians, including Anne Rice and Irma Thomas, this stunning book is perfect for Louisiana locals, or those who simply love the city.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Peggy Scott Laborde is the producer and host of Steppin' Out, which airs on WYES-TV in New Orleans. Her professional accomplishments have earned her awards from the Press Club of New Orleans, Public Relations Society of America, and American Women in Radio and Television. She has garnered praise for her extensive efforts in conserving the arts and history of New Orleans.

As a curator at The Historic New Orleans Collection and the head of the research services and the reading room at Williams Research Center, John Magill has coordinated several exhibits for the museum. He has contributed articles to The Historic New Orleans Collection Quarterly, New Orleans Magazine, and Louisiana Cultural Vistas magazine. Magill is also the author of Pelican's Canal Street: New Orleans' Great Wide Way, which he cowrote with Peggy Scott Laborde.