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7 Authentic Ways to Add Southwest Louisiana Flair to Your Holiday Decor

Updated December 2017

Love visiting Southwest Louisiana in December? If travel isn't possible this year, bring the Bayou State's unique charm to your home with these seven expert tips for Louisiana-inspired Christmas decorating. Infuse your holidays with southern authenticity and warmth.

1. Longleaf pines are a Southwest Louisiana forest staple. Collect their large, perfectly shaped pinecones for versatile decor: nestle in mantel greenery, scatter on dining tables, or hang on your tree.

7 Authentic Ways to Add Southwest Louisiana Flair to Your Holiday Decor
 

2. Ditch popcorn strings or paper chains for a festive garland of vibrant, multi-colored chili peppers over your fireplace. Add them to centerpieces for bold color. (Wear disposable gloves when handling.)

7 Authentic Ways to Add Southwest Louisiana Flair to Your Holiday Decor
 

3. Mix clean oyster shells into arrangements of shiny ornaments, greenery, and lights for an authentic marshland touch.

4. Swap tinsel for ethereal Spanish moss (from your local florist) draped on your Christmas tree.

5. Fill a bowl with fragrant Meyer lemons and satsumas (or mandarin oranges) for a fresh citrus scent throughout your home.

7 Authentic Ways to Add Southwest Louisiana Flair to Your Holiday Decor
 

6. Create homemade ornaments with fleur-de-lis, alligator, or crawfish cookie cutters. Instructions: Preheat oven to 300°F. Combine 4 cups flour, 1 cup salt, and 1½ cups water; knead 10 minutes. Roll out on floured surface, cut shapes, poke hanging holes. Bake 30 minutes, cool, and decorate with paints.

7. Treat Santa to homemade pralines on Christmas Eve.

7 Authentic Ways to Add Southwest Louisiana Flair to Your Holiday Decor

Craving more Louisiana flavor? Enter the Cajun Christmas in a Box giveaway for a chance to win a K2 Summit 30 Cooler packed with award-winning Southwest Louisiana boudin, Bayou Rum swag, and holiday greetings. Enter here!

Adapted from a Southern Living blog post. See the original here.

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