Louisiana Christmas Eve Bonfires
Lighting Christmas Eve bonfires on the levee has been a tradition in the Louisiana river parishes since the 1880’s. Whatever the often debated origins of the tradition were, it is a spectacular sight to see. The construction of these massive structures usually begins around Thanksgiving and continues until the word is given by the local authorities to light them at 7 p.m. Christmas Eve.
"Traditional" 4-pole bonfire.
6-pole style bonfire.
Louisiana Christmas Eve Bonfires
Full moon rising over bonfires and Veterans Memorial Bridge.
Rare south Louisiana snow on 12/11/2008
Santa snowboarding in a pirogue.
Just before Christmas Eve, some cover the bonfire with cane reeds to add to the "crackling" noise when it burns.
After determining the conditions to be safe, officials call for everyone to light the bonfires at 7 p.m. This group had a fireworks display to coincide with the lighting of their bonfire.
Entire Mississippi levee lined with bonfires
Bonfire montage.