New Orleans Celebrates Reveillon Throughout December

December brings one of New Orleans' oldest traditions: Reveillon. In the early nineteenth century, the Creoles who inhabited the city would gather with family to celebrate the beginning of Christmas by attending a midnight Mass that was followed by a family feast. The festivities would continue into the early morning hours with a wide variety of dishes that included chicken and oyster gumbo, soups, soufflés, game pies, and extravagant desserts. They called this custom Réveillon, which is French for "awakening."

Over time, the Reveillon tradition became less and less prevalent throughout the city until the '90s, when the ritual resurfaced in a new, updated way. Today, the celebration involves New Orleans' most influential restaurants serving decadent prix-fixe menus throughout the month of December. While some things have changed, like the time and location of the Reveillon meal, the menus, each one different from the last, are inspired by the memory of the past.

This year's celebration features 53 premier restaurants throughout the city, all with mouth-watering menus sure to please any palate. Have you always wanted to dine at some of the top restaurants in the city, but were thwarted by the price involved? You can take part in the unique dining experience with menus starting at just $34. The last night for Reveillon dinners will be on New Year's Day.

If you ask me, there is no better way to kick off the year to come! Check out the full list of restaurants participating in Reveillon and their menus.