Laura Mckenzie's Traveler Season 3 Episode 12 New Orleans Christmas

Laura McKenzie's Traveler Season 3 Episode 12 "New Orleans Christmas" is a captivating and culturally rich exploration of the holiday season in the heart of the South.

Host Laura McKenzie takes viewers on a journey through the bustling streets of New Orleans, where Christmas lights and traditional decorations adorn the historical buildings and streets. As she traverses the city, Laura immerses herself in the unique holiday traditions that make New Orleans a destination for holiday enthusiasts from around the world.

The episode begins in Jackson Square, where Laura meets local musician Meschiya Lake, who sings a rendition of "Deck the Halls" in her signature jazz style. Laura then makes her way to a nearby shop to sample pralines, a traditional New Orleans sweet treat made from sugar, cream, and pecans. The delicious scent of warm pecans and sugar permeate the air as the shopkeepers share the history and technique behind praline-making in New Orleans.

Next up on Laura's journey is a visit to a local map-maker who handcrafts antique-style maps of the city. The maps are an intricate look at the history of New Orleans and make for a unique and sentimental gift for visitors during the holiday season.

As the night falls, Laura makes her way to St. Louis Cathedral, one of the city's most recognizable landmarks, where she learns about the importance of "aisling" - the Irish tradition of visiting a church at midnight on December 24th to pray for new beginnings in the new year.

The episode concludes with a visit to Celebration in the Oaks, a holiday light display in City Park that features over one million lights and a spectacular tree lighting ceremony. Laura is joined by local artist James Michalopoulos, who designed the tree topper for the 2016 White House Christmas tree. They discuss the beauty of the display and its importance to the city of New Orleans and its residents.

Throughout the episode, Laura McKenzie is a charming and knowledgeable guide, sharing her love for the city and its unique traditions with viewers. Her interactions with local business owners, artists, and musicians offer an intimate look into the culture and charm of New Orleans.

"New Orleans Christmas" is a must-watch for anyone looking to experience the holiday season in a truly one-of-a-kind way. It's a captivating and heartwarming exploration of the customs and traditions that make this city so culturally significant during the holidays.