As the air turns crisp and the holidays begin to sparkle across South Louisiana, the Cajun Coast comes alive with festive charm, family traditions, and community cheer. From riverfront celebrations to holiday shopping, parades, and dazzling lights, November is the perfect time to visit and experience the heartwarming hospitality of the Cajun Coast.
Whether you’re looking to make new memories with your family, find unique gifts for everyone on your list, or enjoy the local flavor, you’ll find no shortage of seasonal events across St. Mary Parish. Here are some can’t-miss happenings to plan your visit around:
November 7th-9th | Bellview Front St., Berwick
Celebrate the 11th Annual Berwick Lighthouse Festival with three days of fun along the Atchafalaya River. This community favorite features live music, carnival rides, arts and crafts, a cookie bake-off, fireworks, a gumbo cook-off, and more. From mass on the river to a night bike ride, it’s a family-friendly way to soak in the culture of coastal Louisiana.
November 22nd | 10am-5pm | Mama G’s Parking Lot, Morgan City
Join Mama G’s and Swampland Revival to help provide holiday meals for local families in need. This fundraising event features an “anything over rice” cook-off, live music, a beer drinking contest, and kids’ fun jumps. Bring canned goods or a turkey to donate and support a great cause.
1st Annual Christmas Parade & BVCC Lighting Ceremony
November 22nd | 3pm-8pm | Bayou Vista Community Center
Get ready to strut your stuff at Bayou Vista Community Center with the parade line-up kicking off at 3pm! The holiday spirit rolls in with a festive parade starting at 3:30pm featuring walkers, bikes, and golf carts, followed by the official Lighting Ceremony at 6pm. Enjoy visits with Santa, hot cocoa, cookies, hot dogs, and bike giveaways. Entry fees for golf carts benefit the St. Mary Parish Toys for Tots campaign.
Moonlight Monday in Morgan City
November 24th | 4-8pm | Downtown Morgan City
Kick off the Christmas season with a festive evening of shopping, live music, and community cheer at the 13th Annual Moonlight Monday. Explore local storefronts decked in holiday décor, enjoy food from local vendors, and gather with neighbors for the much-anticipated Lighting of the Dock Christmas Tree—a magical moment that signals the start of the season in Morgan City.
Spirit of Morgan City Boat Lighting
November 27th | 5:45-7:30pm | Corner of Brashear and Federal Ave.
There’s no better way to celebrate the holidays on the water than with the Spirit of Morgan City Boat Lighting. Watch boats glide by decked out in glowing holiday lights. The event begins with a visit from Santa and is a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.
7th Annual Mistletoe & Moss Holiday Market
November 29th | 11am-4pm | Hosted by St. Mary Chamber of Commerce
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Mistletoe & Moss Market, featuring local makers, craft vendors, and food artisans. Whether you’re searching for one-of-a-kind gifts or just browsing with a cup of cocoa in hand, it’s the perfect way to support local businesses while enjoying the festive spirit.
Spirit of Morgan City Christmas Festival
November 29th | 2-7pm | Lawrence Park, Morgan City
Spend the afternoon in downtown Morgan City with festive activities for the whole family. From pictures with Santa and the Grinch to cookie decorating, face painting, train rides, and even ice skating, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the Lighting of the Oaks at 5:45pm—another treasured Cajun Coast tradition.
Plan Your Visit to the Cajun Coast
With its scenic waterways, small-town charm, and deep cultural roots, the Cajun Coast is the ideal place to slow down and celebrate the joy of the season. Ready to plan your trip? Visit www.cajuncoast.com for more holiday events, lodging info, and travel tips.
