New Orleans, LA Holiday Giveaways Near Me: Where to Find Legit Deals
Photo: KEN COOPER / Pexels
One major sweepstakes ends August 27; December toy giveaways, hotel credits, and community markets offer consistent annual opportunities.
Most holiday giveaways in New Orleans run in December, several months away. However, one major sweepstakes with concert and hotel prizes ends this month, and the city's nonprofit community centers, retailers, and tourism board run consistent annual programs each winter. One active sweepstakes ends August 27: the NOLAxNOLA 2026 Sweepstakes, offered by New Orleans & Company, awards $2,690 in total prizes including three hotel nights, concert access, dining credits, and a $500 travel stipend.
Beyond that, New Orleans' holiday giveaways cluster in December and January—toy giveaways, hotel credits, retail clearance, and community events.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on August 17, 2026.
Enter the NOLAxNOLA Sweepstakes Before August 27
The NOLAxNOLA 2026 Sweepstakes is the only major active giveaway with an urgent deadline. Entry closes August 27, 2026, so New Orleans residents and visitors planning December travel should apply now. The grand prize includes three nights at the Pontchartrain Hotel, concert access with a backstage venue tour, dining and drinks credits, and a $500 travel stipend (estimated $2,690 total value).
Entry is free with no purchase required. Winners are typically announced within 30 days of the close. Official rules and entry are available through New Orleans & Company.
Toy Giveaways for Children (December)
Every December, New Orleans community nonprofits and faith-based organizations host toy giveaways for children ages 0–13. Key sites include the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club (730 North Broad Street), Victory Church, Thrive Community Center, and Young Audiences Charter Schools, many partnering with Toys for Tots. These events are free and open to local families; registration requirements and exact dates vary and should be confirmed directly with each organization in November.
WWL-TV maintains an updated list of holiday toy giveaways across New Orleans.
Hotel Credits, Dining & Retail Promotions (December–January)
New Orleans hotels, restaurants, and retailers offer consistent holiday promotions. Papa Noel, New Orleans & Company's December hotel program, awards $50 electronic credits to visitors booking two or more consecutive nights—redeemable at participating restaurants, bars, and shops. Check participating hotels on the Papa Noel page. The Four Seasons New Orleans provides a complimentary holiday dessert and seasonal cocktail to all diners (December 1–31), plus exclusive spa packages for hotel guests.
Traditional Réveillon multi-course dinners (December 1–January 6) are available at French Quarter restaurants, typically $85–$150 per person. Post-Christmas retail clearance begins in January at major retailers like Target and Walmart, with Christmas inventory marked down 70–90% off.
Free Community Events with Markets (December)
December brings free and low-cost community events featuring vendors and giveaways. The Arts Market (December 20–21) features 80+ local vendors selling handmade goods and home decor, many running holiday specials and giveaways. The Holly Jolly Market offers similar vendor discounts and live music.
Free public events include the Manning Family Children's Hospital Parade (30 floats), St. Louis Cathedral free concerts, Holiday in the Park light displays, and Jackson Square Christmas caroling (December 21). New Orleans Mom's holiday guide lists details.
Louisiana Lottery Holiday Drawings (November–December)
Louisiana Lottery runs two seasonal promotions. "Home for the Holidays" scratch-off tickets ($1–$5) offer prizes from $2,000 to $100,000. The Powerball "Holiday Bonus" promotion (November 11–December 15) includes $300,000 in weekly cash drawings.
Full details are on the Louisiana Lottery holiday page. Tickets are sold at authorized retailers throughout New Orleans; odds and prize structures appear on each ticket.
Year-Round Giveaway Source (Any Season)
The New Orleans Chamber of Commerce maintains an updated Local Deals page featuring year-round giveaways, discounts, and promotions from member businesses. The Local Deals section is updated regularly and serves as a resource between major seasonal events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NOLAxNOLA Sweepstakes restricted to New Orleans residents?
No—entry is open to residents and visitors. Verify current eligibility on the official rules page.
How do I register for toy giveaways?
Most toy giveaways use first-come, first-served registration or require sign-up with the hosting nonprofit. Contact Zulu Social Aid, Victory Church, and Thrive Community Center directly in November for 2026 details.
Do I need to be a Louisiana resident to buy lottery tickets?
No—Louisiana Lottery tickets are available to anyone 18+ at authorized retailers, regardless of residency. You can claim prizes at authorized retailers or by mail.
When do Papa Noel credits expire?
Papa Noel credits are valid only for December bookings and hotel redemptions. Check the booking page for current expiration dates.