While visiting New Orleans for the first time as a couple, we happened to be there the weekend that the “Crescent City” has its annual Caroling in Jackson Square. This holiday tradition has been going on since 1946. We embraced the experience and fell in love with it. We decided to head to New Orleans again and planned to go at the time the caroling would be.
What to Expect when Caroling in Jackson Square
You may be wondering what to expect. You’ll eagerly await the opening of the park with cheery citizens, which happens 30 minutes before the caroling begins. You enter the square while receiving your candle and song sheet. You then continue your walk to find your perfect place to wait for the caroling to begin. There isn’t really a bad spot in the park. But if you are one of the first in line, you can head for the center section and get a bench to sit on. We began waiting in line 45 minutes before the gate opened, which put us about 5th in line.
A few minutes before the event begins, the candles are lit, one by one as your neighbor standing next to you offers you the flame of their candle to light yours. You then light the candle of the next person beside you. And when you look up, you discover the soft candle light glow illuminating everyone’s faces and their song sheet.
As the music begins, it’s a magical experience to be a part of something where everyone comes together to sing as one in merriment. It doesn’t matter what, if any, religion you are. Everyone is welcome. The songs are well known Christmas carols and you are given the lyrics. So there are no excuses not to go! The caroling lasts for about an hour.
Further Information
Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré (Patio Planters of the French Quarter) organization donates the candles and song sheets. You can find more information such as the date and time at http://patioplanters.net/caroling-jackson-square/
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