A trip to New Orleans would be incomplete without an early morning visit to the French Quarter, the sound of a saxophone drifting alongside the Mississippi River, and an order of Beignets from Café Du Monde.

Charmed by Bridge Street in the quaint town of Breaux Bridge, between Lafayette and Baton Rouge . . .


Upon setting out on this road trip, it was to be entitled, “Christmas in Louisiana.” 
However, we couldn’t resist including some non-Christmas photos, so please enjoy the road trip, "December in Louisiana".


All thumbnail images may be clicked to enlarge.

December  in  Louisiana

Our final destination is New Orleans. Fortunate to have family in the area, a quick check in and fabulous steak dinner were waiting. 

Christmas in the Oaks was also waiting in City Park! The full moon made a well-timed appearance for the camera above countless twinkling lights.
Continuing southward to Lafayette, then eastward on I-10, the scenery is fabulous. Come along while we stop the car and take a glimpse into the swamp lands! 
Our journey begins in Monroe and West Monroe, Louisiana. Friday night, we visited Antique Alley to find the street bright with Christmas lights overhead and every storefront cheerfully decorated. Wagon rides through the most illuminated areas are offered on Friday and Saturday nights through December 20th. 


We hope you had a great time touring Louisiana in December. 

We have two more trips planned before the month ends, so be sure to check back when you're in the mood for another road trip and a view into Southeastern Living!

Without a minute to spare, the Natchitoches Christmas Parade began as we arrived on Front Street. We’d been told this event is a big deal, but oh my! It could have been mistaken for Mardi Gras in New Orleans if not for the Christmas theme.


Photography by Jeannee C. Gannuch

After the parade, the picturesque Natchitoches riverfront was buzzing with happy people,
​ live music, dancing, food, fireworks and Christmas cheer.
Heading southward, on LA 34 toward Natchitoches, hunger struck. Both scenery and restaurants were scarce as we travelled through logging country under cloudy skies, but David's Pro Burger appeared on the roadside in Joyce, LA, just in time for lunch. The restaurant and its welcoming owner charm newcomers from the time they step across the threshold. Antiques, original art, and memorabilia randomly cover the walls.  Local artist, Mike Roberts also displays oil paintings for sale, (we have his contact info if you would like to request it.) 
A combination plate of shrimp and catfish was delightful. Fresh, flavorful, fried to perfect crispness . . . we can absolutely say this was some of the best fried seafood we’ve enjoyed. (Free chocolate chip cookies are included for dessert!)


Wakening to a very grey day, the annual Bawcomville Redneck Christmas Parade was first on the agenda. 
Having attended many, many parades, this was truly like no other! The fun loving crowd cheered on red-neck themed floats as they wound through the streets of West Monroe.