December 7-10, 2023, in front of City Hall

Here’s what’s happening:

City Hall Projections

740 2nd Street, Gretna, LA 70053

Shown at 6 PM, 7 PM, 8 PM, and 9 PM

“The Memory of Miss River”

by Christina Molina

Miss River is imagined as a mythical character who holds the endless memory and history of the Mississippi River and recounts these histories via narrative prose. Her narration will be accompanied by beautiful videography of things she finds along the river.

“Eco-Logic”

by Courtney Egan

Eco-Logic will focus on the birds and bugs that thrive along the banks of the Mississippi and in the wetlands surrounding it.

“River Journey: A History of Boats on the Mississippi River”

by David Sullivan

In “River Journey”, we explore the beauty of the river through people’s use of boats in trade and exploration. By showcasing the river’s beauty, and history, the project seeks to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of this vital waterway.

Gretna Amphitheater Water-Based Projection

1st and Huey P. Long Avenue, Gretna, LA 70053

Shown at 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM, and 8:30 PM

Lantern Puppets on Parade

Giant Snapping Turtle Lantern Puppet

by Whatchamapuppet

Giant lantern turtle puppet is worn by two puppeteers at the Gretna ferry terminal. The puppet is a fantastical turtle inspired by the alligator snapping turtle, with multiple symbolisms: a shell as a self-contained vessel in the liminal space of the river water; a shell which can transport goods, society, and world-building exchange between the two riverbanks.

Whatchamapuppet will also be in Memorial Square Friday night with supplies for the community to create their own lantern fish that they can carry in a parade.

And More

around Memorial Square and on the levee in Gretna

Each evening will also offer more items of interest, like local choirs singing Christmas music, a “light your bike” station, a Christmas Market, and short scenes from the Nutcracker Suite. A more detailed schedule will be made available closer to the event date.