A Holiday Tradition Meets Community Impact: Galatoire’s Table Auction Supports The 18th Ward

Every December, Galatoire’s transforms from a beloved New Orleans dining institution into the center of one of the most spirited and philanthropic holiday traditions in the city: the Galatoire’s Christmas and Mardi Gras table auctions. This year, the festivities carried even more meaning as proceeds helped fuel youth programs and community development led by The 18th Ward—proving once again that the magic of the season is even greater when it’s shared.

Known for its lively Friday lunches, the table auction invites guests to bid on exclusive reservations during the most coveted dining days of the year. The result? A festive blend of friendly rivalry, champagne toasts, and high-energy generosity. Beneath the glamour, however, is a profound mission. Funds raised support nonprofits like The 18th Ward who work year-round to create equitable access to sports programming, mentorship, and safe recreational spaces for young people across New Orleans.

What makes Galatoire’s table auction so special is that it embodies what New Orleans does best: celebrate, support, and uplift. It’s a testament to how tradition can evolve into action and how a single event can ripple outward—impacting lives far beyond the dining room. As diners raise paddles for a seat at one of the most coveted tables in town, they are also raising hope and opportunity for hundreds of young people.

This year’s auction served as an inspiring reminder that when local institutions and nonprofits work hand in hand, the result is more than holiday cheer—it’s meaningful change. The 18th Ward is deeply grateful for the support and looks forward to continuing this partnership to ensure that youth across our city have access to the resources, role models, and experiences they deserve. Galatoire’s has once again shown that tradition and philanthropy can share the same table—and that’s something worth celebrating all year long.