I'll be there the same time and have been going the same week for years. Christmas happenings everywhere. I myself with coming from "snow" Christmas lights displays was disappointed with the Oaks. But looking at the schedule Ellis Marsallis is giving a free Concert 12-14 at the St. Louis Cathedrel, a choir the next night. The Park Service also has free concerts and walking tours. Check out Papa Noel hotel rates, but also go to the NO visitor site. Last few years plenty of buy 2 get one night free deals.

If you can possibly pull yourself together by 9:30 on Sunday morning, do not miss the free walking tour of the French Quarter, directed by an interpreter from the National Park Service. Tours are limited to 25
people, first come first served.

From the website:
9:30 a.m. History of New Orleans walking tour: This tour through the French Quarter involves one mile of walking and provides an overview of the historical events and the ethnic and cultural diversity that have combined to create present-day New Orleans, unique among American cities. Relive the history of New Orleans from its humble beginnings as a small outpost of French rule in the North American wilderness. 25-person limit, first-come, first-served. Passes limited to one per person, must be picked up in person on the day of the tour.