by Emma Boyce

When it’s a balmy seventy degrees outside, it’s easy to forget that Christmas is right around the corner.  Fear not!  From 6 pm -8 pm Tuesday, dig out your old Christmas sweater because nothing can catapult you into the holiday spirit like Harrah’s “Miracle on Fulton Street” kick-off event, hosted by the Saints own miracle man, Steve Gleason.   

“This year we’re bringing [“Miracle on Fulton Street”] back, new and improved,” said Sherri Sosa, assistant general manager of Harrah’s Casino.   

After last year’s construction on Manning’s prevented anything extraordinary from occurring on Fulton, Christmas on Fulton returns this year full force. From festive scenery to a giant tree, every aspect of the event has grown bigger and better.  

“They have designed and customized a whole façade and iron work that [goes] all the way down Fulton.  Before it was a covered tunnel,” said Sosa.  “We’ve taken that to the next level.” 

Bereft of a true winter wonderland, Sosa, like many others, looks forward to snow in New Orleans.  Why wait ten years, when you can have it on demand?  

“It snows every hour on the hour,” said Sosa.

The tree, which sits between Manning’s and Grand Isle, stands at a hefty 30 feet, nearly rivaling the Christmas tree in Macy’s. Both Santa and Steve make an appearance tomorrow to switch on the Christmas tree lights and commence a month long celebration of  holiday jubilation.  

While Gleason will light the way Santa and his reindeer will set up shop permanently in downtown New Orleans every Friday and Saturday until the end of the Christmas season.

“There’s a whole lighting [celebration and] music show that will go on through the evening.  We’ve kicked it up a notch; this such a great place to bring families,” said Sosa.  

Since rain nearly washed out Gleason’s latest appearance to raise money for Lou Gehrig’s disease, Sosa also wants people to have another chance to support him and his charity.  ‘Tis the season for giving.  

While carolers line up along Fulton and inside restaurants, belting out your favorite holiday tunes, Santa takes a seat under the “beautiful” gazebo with reindeer at his side.  Santa’s lost the list, so even the naughty are welcome to pose for pictures with good ole St. Nick. 

Throughout the weekend, holiday specials will be available up and down Fulton. 

“Inside Harrah’s hotel there is always a gingerbread something or other.  [This year it’s] a riverboat gingerbread,” said Sosa.   

Rising Sun will also offer delicious treats like hot chocolate and cotton candy among other things.  

“We’re looking forward to a long, fun holiday season,” said Sosa.