There's something magical about the holiday season in Baton Rouge. The air turns crisp, neighborhoods sparkle with decorations, and the entire city seems to slow down just enough to savor the joy of the season. And at the heart of it all is the Festival of Lights—Baton Rouge's oldest and most beloved holiday tradition that transforms downtown into a winter wonderland.

Whether you're a lifelong Baton Rouge resident who attends every year or you're new to the area and experiencing it for the first time, the 2025 Festival of Lights promises to be an unforgettable celebration. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about this year's festivities, plus explore why downtown Baton Rouge and its surrounding neighborhoods are such special places to call home.

What Is the Festival of Lights?

The Festival of Lights is Baton Rouge's signature holiday celebration, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to North Boulevard Town Square each year. This free, family-friendly event officially kicks off the holiday season in Louisiana's capital city with a spectacular display of lights, live entertainment, and community togetherness.

The centerpiece of the celebration is the lighting of more than half a million twinkling lights throughout downtown, along with a magnificent 35-foot Christmas tree in Town Square. The moment those lights flicker on for the first time each year is nothing short of breathtaking—a collective gasp followed by cheers from the crowd as downtown Baton Rouge transforms into a glittering holiday paradise.

Festival of Lights 2025 Details

Date: Friday, December 5, 2025

Time: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Location: North Boulevard Town Square, Downtown Baton Rouge

Cost: FREE

What to Expect:

• Official lighting of half a million holiday lights
• 35-foot Christmas tree lighting ceremony
• Live music and dance performances
• Arts market with local vendors
• Food trucks and holiday treats
• Fireworks display to cap off the evening
• Visit from Santa Claus
• Children's activities and entertainment

The Festival of Lights is hosted by the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, and it's been bringing the community together for decades. What started as a simple tree lighting has grown into one of the most anticipated events of the year.

Getting There: Parking and Transportation Tips

One of the most common questions about the Festival of Lights is where to park. Downtown Baton Rouge can get crowded during major events, so planning ahead is essential.

Parking Options

Street Parking: Metered street parking is available throughout downtown, but it fills up quickly on event nights. Arrive early (before 4:00 PM) for the best spots. Many meters are free after 6:00 PM, but check signage to be sure.

Parking Garages: Several public parking garages are available downtown:

• River Center Parking Garage (500 Main Street)
• Chase Parking Garage (451 Laurel Street)
• Galvez Parking Garage (615 St. Ferdinand Street)

Expect to pay $5-$10 for garage parking during events.

Ride Share: Uber and Lyft are popular options for avoiding parking hassles altogether. Set your drop-off point for Third Street or Main Street near Town Square.

Walk or Bike: If you live in a nearby neighborhood like Spanish Town, Beauregard Town, or Garden District, consider walking or biking to the event. It's a beautiful evening stroll, and you'll avoid traffic altogether.

Best Time to Arrive

For the best experience, arrive between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. This gives you time to:

• Secure parking before the crowds arrive
• Browse the arts market vendors
• Grab food and find a good viewing spot
• Let kids enjoy activities before the main ceremony
• Watch the sunset over the Mississippi River

The official tree lighting typically happens around 6:00 PM, with fireworks following later in the evening.

Beyond the Festival: Holiday Lights Throughout Baton Rouge

The Festival of Lights is just the beginning of holiday magic in Baton Rouge. Throughout December, you'll find stunning light displays and festive events all across the city. Here are some other must-see holiday experiences:

Baton Rouge General Holiday Lights

Dates: November 21 - December 30, 2025

Location: 8585 Picardy Avenue, Baton Rouge

Cost: FREE

Baton Rouge General transforms its greenspace into a dazzling, music-synchronized light show that's become one of the city's signature holiday traditions. Walk through illuminated tunnels, dance with singing trees, and snap photos inside giant lighted ornaments, presents, and Santa hats. The display features dancing mega trees, 24 feet of lighted tunnels, and festive displays like candy canes and snowmen.

This is a perfect activity for families with young children—it's free, the walking path is easy to navigate, and the synchronized music creates a truly magical atmosphere.

Louisiana Lights at Burden Museum & Gardens

Dates: November 28 - December 30, 2025

Location: 4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge

Cost: Ticketed event (purchase in advance at Burden Museum)

Now in its second year, Louisiana Lights has quickly become a must-see holiday experience. The display transforms the grounds of the former Burden family home into an immersive wonderland of illuminated garden rooms, enchanted forests, a sparkling lake, and shimmering tunnels of light.

What makes Louisiana Lights special is its setting among towering oaks and the natural beauty of the Burden property. The Louisiana-themed displays celebrate our state's unique culture and landscapes. This is a ticketed event, so purchase your tickets early—they do sell out.

BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo - ZooLights

Dates: November 29 - December 30, 2025

Location: 3601 Thomas Road, Baton Rouge

Cost: Varies (check BREC Zoo website for pricing)

ZooLights offers a one-mile trail through the Baton Rouge Zoo featuring more than 50 light sculptures of zoo animals and holiday displays. It's a family favorite that combines the wonder of the zoo with the magic of the season. Santa visits on Friday and Saturday evenings before Christmas, and you can get 50% off admission by bringing a canned good for the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.

Holiday Lights Driving Tours

Many Baton Rouge neighborhoods go all-out with holiday decorations, creating impromptu driving tours that families enjoy throughout December. Some of the best neighborhoods for holiday light viewing include:

Bocage: The upscale homes in this South Baton Rouge neighborhood feature elegant, professionally designed displays.

University Acres/University Gardens: Near LSU, these neighborhoods have a mix of traditional and creative displays.

Shenandoah: This established neighborhood consistently has beautiful decorations throughout.

Highland Road corridor: Drive from LSU down Highland Road to see a variety of displays.

Jefferson Place: Another South Baton Rouge neighborhood known for tasteful holiday decorating.

Denham Springs neighborhoods: Several subdivisions in Livingston Parish put on impressive displays, particularly in the Range and South Range areas.

Driving through decorated neighborhoods is a wonderful way to explore different areas of Baton Rouge. Pay attention to which neighborhoods feel like home—you might just find your next house while admiring the lights!

Downtown Baton Rouge: A Neighborhood Worth Knowing

The Festival of Lights takes place in the heart of downtown Baton Rouge, and while you're there, it's worth appreciating what makes this area special. Downtown has experienced a renaissance in recent years, with new restaurants, entertainment venues, and residential developments bringing renewed energy to the city center.

Living Downtown

Downtown Baton Rouge offers a unique urban lifestyle that appeals to young professionals, empty nesters, and anyone who loves walkability and culture. Residential options include:

Lofts and Condos: Historic buildings converted into modern living spaces, many with exposed brick, high ceilings, and industrial charm.

New Construction Apartments: Modern apartment complexes with amenities like rooftop pools, fitness centers, and parking garages.

Townhomes: Some newer developments offer townhome-style living with private entrances and garage parking.

What's Nearby

Living downtown puts you within walking distance of:

• Louisiana State Capitol and grounds
• Old State Capitol (the "Castle on the River")
• Shaw Center for the Arts
• Raising Cane's River Center (concerts, hockey, events)
• Numerous restaurants along Third Street
• USS Kidd Veterans Museum
• Mississippi Riverfront and levee walking paths

Downtown Price Points

Downtown living typically ranges from:

• Rentals: $1,200 - $2,500/month for apartments and lofts
• Condos for sale: $150,000 - $400,000+
• Townhomes: $250,000 - $450,000+

If urban living appeals to you, [contact Southern Homes Team] to explore downtown Baton Rouge options.

Historic Neighborhoods Near Downtown

Some of Baton Rouge's most charming neighborhoods are located just minutes from downtown and the Festival of Lights. These historic areas offer character, walkability, and strong community connections.

Spanish Town

Just north of downtown, Spanish Town is one of Baton Rouge's oldest and most eclectic neighborhoods. Known for its annual Mardi Gras parade (the largest neighborhood parade in the city), Spanish Town features:

• Historic cottages and bungalows dating to the 1800s
• Tree-lined streets with mature oaks
• Walking distance to downtown and the State Capitol
• Strong sense of community and neighborhood pride
• Mix of longtime residents and young professionals
• Price range: $200,000 - $600,000+

Spanish Town's proximity to downtown makes it perfect for attending events like the Festival of Lights—you can walk there and back!

Beauregard Town

Adjacent to downtown, Beauregard Town is another historic neighborhood experiencing revitalization. Features include:

• Mix of historic homes and new construction
• Some of Baton Rouge's oldest architecture
• Walking distance to downtown restaurants and entertainment
• Growing arts and culture scene
• Price range: $150,000 - $450,000+

Garden District

The Garden District is a beloved mid-city neighborhood known for its:

• Beautiful historic homes from various eras
• Mature landscaping and tree canopy
• Active neighborhood association
• Annual home tours and community events
• Mix of families, professionals, and retirees
• Price range: $250,000 - $800,000+

Mid City

The Mid City area along Government Street has become one of Baton Rouge's trendiest neighborhoods, featuring:

• Eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars
• White Light Night annual arts festival
• Growing residential options
• Walkable lifestyle
• Creative, artistic community vibe
• Price range: $150,000 - $400,000+

Family-Friendly Holiday Events Beyond the Festival

The Festival of Lights is just one of many family-friendly holiday events happening in Baton Rouge this December. Here are some other celebrations to add to your calendar:

CPKC Holiday Train

Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2025

Location: 1401 Foss Street, Baton Rouge

Time: 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM

Cost: FREE (donations encouraged)

The iconic, fully illuminated CPKC Holiday Train makes its Baton Rouge stop for one night only. This family-friendly event features a live concert from the train's stage and collects donations for local food banks. Now in its 27th year, the Holiday Train has become a beloved tradition that spreads cheer while raising money and awareness for food insecurity.

Central's Christmas Parade

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM

Location: Central, Louisiana

Cost: FREE

The City of Central's 39th Annual Christmas Parade is a wonderful small-town celebration. Central is known for its excellent schools (Central Community School System is one of the top-rated districts in Louisiana) and family-friendly atmosphere. If you're considering the Central area, attending this parade is a great way to experience the community spirit.

Cortana Kiwanis Downtown Christmas Parade

Date: Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Time: 5:30 PM

Location: Downtown Baton Rouge

Cost: FREE

Every year, more than 70,000 people watch this parade live as it rolls through downtown Baton Rouge. Featuring marching bands, celebrities, dance troupes, non-profit organizations, and local businesses in seasonal themes, it's a celebration that connects the entire community. The parade is also a fundraiser for local children's charities.

Magnolia Mound Creole Christmas

Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025

Time: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Location: 2161 Nicholson Drive, Baton Rouge

Cost: Varies

Ring in the Christmas season with a 19th-century Louisiana celebration at historic Magnolia Mound. Musical groups, demonstrating artisans, storytellers, and costumed re-enactors set the holiday mood. The event concludes with a bonfire to welcome Papa Noël—a beloved Louisiana tradition.

Santa Rocks the Rowe

Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025

Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Location: Perkins Rowe, Baton Rouge

Cost: FREE (photos with Santa available for purchase)

Perkins Rowe hosts this annual event featuring live music, face painting, letters to Santa, games, and holiday entertainment. It's a great opportunity to experience one of Baton Rouge's premier shopping and dining destinations while enjoying free family fun.

Let It Sneaux - BREC Holiday Event

Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025

Time: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Location: Perkins Road Community Park

Cost: FREE

Who says we can't have a winter wonderland in Baton Rouge? BREC's Let It Sneaux features photos with Santa, live music, a Mini Maker's Market featuring local kidpreneurs, a special holiday drone show, and yes—snow! This free family event is perfect for creating holiday memories.

Red Stick Rising (Kid-Friendly New Year's Eve)

Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Time: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Location: River Center Branch Library & Town Square

Cost: FREE

Kids can count down to noon (instead of midnight!) with crafts, the rising Red Stick, a sing-along, and entertainment. It's the perfect way for families with young children to celebrate New Year's Eve without staying up late.

Why Baton Rouge Is Special During the Holidays

There's something about celebrating the holidays in Baton Rouge that feels different from other places. Maybe it's the mild Louisiana weather that allows for outdoor festivals and neighborhood walks. Maybe it's the unique blend of cultures—French, Spanish, African, Caribbean—that influences our traditions. Or maybe it's simply the warmth of Southern hospitality that makes everyone feel welcome.

Unique Louisiana Holiday Traditions

Papa Noël: Louisiana's version of Santa Claus, Papa Noël arrives by pirogue (a Cajun canoe) instead of sleigh and wears a fur-trimmed coat suited for our mild winters.

Réveillon Dinners: A Creole tradition of elaborate late-night feasts on Christmas Eve, featuring multiple courses of Louisiana specialties.

Bonfires on the Levee: In nearby St. James Parish, massive bonfires are lit along the Mississippi River levee on Christmas Eve to light the way for Papa Noël.

Louisiana Christmas Music: From Cajun carols to zydeco holiday tunes, Louisiana puts its own spin on Christmas music.

Seafood-Centric Celebrations: Don't be surprised to find gumbo, crawfish, and oysters alongside turkey and ham at Louisiana holiday gatherings.

The Gift of Community

What truly sets Baton Rouge apart during the holidays is the sense of community. Events like the Festival of Lights bring together people from all walks of life—families with strollers, couples on date nights, groups of friends, longtime residents, and newcomers. For one evening, we all gather in Town Square to share in the magic of the season.

This community spirit extends to the real estate experience, too. When you buy a home in Baton Rouge, you're not just purchasing property—you're joining a community. The Southern Homes Team has been helping families become part of Baton Rouge neighborhoods for years, and we understand that finding the right community is just as important as finding the right house.

Planning Your Holiday Season Home Search

If you're considering a move to Baton Rouge, the holiday season offers a unique opportunity to experience different neighborhoods during their most festive time. Here's how to combine holiday fun with productive house hunting:

Use Events to Explore Neighborhoods

Attend events in different parts of the city to get a feel for various areas:

• Festival of Lights: Experience downtown and nearby historic neighborhoods
• Louisiana Lights at Burden: Explore the Highland Road corridor and surrounding areas
• Central Christmas Parade: Discover the family-friendly City of Central
• ZooLights: Check out the Greenwell Springs Road area and nearby neighborhoods
• Perkins Rowe events: Experience the bustling South Baton Rouge retail district

Drive Through Neighborhoods at Night

Holiday decorations reveal a lot about neighborhoods:

• Community engagement: Areas with lots of decorations often have strong neighborhood associations and community involvement
• Pride of ownership: Well-decorated homes typically indicate homeowners who care about their properties
• Family-friendliness: Look for kid-oriented decorations and visible signs of children in the neighborhood
• Safety: Well-lit, decorated streets feel welcoming and safe

Talk to Locals

Holiday events are perfect opportunities to chat with residents and ask about their neighborhoods. Most people are happy to share what they love (and don't love) about where they live. Ask questions like:

• "How long have you lived here?"
• "What do you enjoy most about this neighborhood?"
• "How are the schools?" (if applicable)
• "Do you know your neighbors?"
• "Is there anything you wish was different?"

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Festival of Lights 2025?

The Festival of Lights takes place on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at North Boulevard Town Square in downtown Baton Rouge. The event is free and open to the public.

Where can I park for the Festival of Lights?

Parking is available in several downtown garages including River Center Parking Garage, Chase Parking Garage, and Galvez Parking Garage. Street parking is also available but fills up quickly. Consider arriving early, using ride share, or walking if you live nearby.

What other holiday light displays are in Baton Rouge?

Major displays include Baton Rouge General Holiday Lights (free, Picardy Avenue), Louisiana Lights at Burden Museum (ticketed), and ZooLights at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo. Many neighborhoods also have impressive residential displays.

Is the Festival of Lights good for kids?

Absolutely! The Festival of Lights is very family-friendly with children's activities, Santa visits, and an early evening timeframe that works well for young kids. The fireworks display is a highlight for children of all ages.

What neighborhoods are near downtown Baton Rouge?

Historic neighborhoods near downtown include Spanish Town, Beauregard Town, Garden District, and Mid City. Each offers unique character, walkability, and proximity to downtown events and amenities.

Are there New Year's Eve events in Baton Rouge?

Yes! Red Stick Revelry is Baton Rouge's official New Year's Eve celebration featuring live music, fireworks over the Mississippi River, and the iconic Red Stick drop at midnight. For families with young children, Red Stick Rising offers a noon countdown celebration.

What makes Baton Rouge special during the holidays?

Baton Rouge combines unique Louisiana traditions (like Papa Noël and Réveillon dinners) with Southern hospitality and a strong sense of community. The mild weather allows for outdoor festivals and events throughout December.

Is December a good time to buy a home in Baton Rouge?

Yes! December offers advantages including less competition, motivated sellers, potential tax benefits for year-end closings, and the opportunity to experience neighborhoods during their most festive time. The Southern Homes Team stays active during the holidays to help buyers take advantage of these opportunities.

Ready to Make Baton Rouge Home?

The Festival of Lights is more than just an event—it's a celebration of everything that makes Baton Rouge special. The community gathering, the shared joy, the traditions that connect generations—these are the things that transform a house into a home and a city into a community.

If you're considering making Baton Rouge your home, we'd love to help you find the perfect neighborhood for your lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the urban energy of downtown, the historic charm of Spanish Town, the family-friendly atmosphere of Central, or the suburban comfort of Prairieville, the Southern Homes Team knows every corner of Greater Baton Rouge.

Contact Southern Homes Team to start your Baton Rouge home search, or [explore our neighborhood guides] to learn more about different areas. Let's find the place where you'll create your own holiday traditions for years to come.

Wishing you a season filled with light, love, and the warmth of community!

The Southern Homes Team is consistently ranked among the top Baton Rouge Realtors, verified by RealTrends and recognized as a Best of Baton Rouge award winner.