Jean Lafitte Park Plans Veterans Day Luminaria Tour

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve will hold its first Veterans Day luminaria driving tour at Chalmette Battlefield on Nov. 11. The free event runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and vehicles may enter until 7:30 p.m.

What this means for your visit

Visitors can drive through Chalmette Battlefield after dark to see more than 2,000 white luminarias honoring U.S. veterans. Illuminated displays will be placed at the Chalmette Monument, Malus-Beauregard House and American flagpole.

An accompanying audio program will recognize current and former U.S. service members. The event also honors veterans buried in the national cemetery.

There is no admission charge. The battlefield is at 1 Battlefield Road in Chalmette, Louisiana.

Because this is a driving tour, visitors will experience the illumination from their vehicles. Those planning to attend should arrive in time to enter no later than 7:30 p.m.

Background

Chalmette Battlefield protects the location of the Battle of New Orleans. It was the last major engagement of the War of 1812 and holds an important place in U.S. military history.

The illumination is connected to the National Park Service’s observance of the nation’s 250th anniversary and is part of the Great American Expedition.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is presenting the event with St. Bernard Parish and several partner organizations. They include groups representing descendants and historical organizations tied to the War of 1812, the British Empire and Buffalo Soldiers, along with the Historic Tremé Jazz Museum.

Source: National Park Service news release, November 4, 2026.