Mister Bingle has been an iconic, New Orleans holiday tradition for more than 70 years. The phrase, “jingle, jangle, jingle” strikes a nostalgic chord for many New Orleanians who remember the Christmas character from its first appearance on Canal Street.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Canal Street was considered the city’s heart of retail. Families headed downtown for shopping at historic department stores with legendary names like D.H. Homes, Maison Blanche, Krauss’ and Godchaux’s.
Mister Bingle was widely known as the holiday mascot for the historic department store Maison Blanche. The character was created by the store’s display director in 1947 for holiday advertising.
His immediate success led to the birth of a New Orleans icon. Maison Blanche created a Mr. Bingle store museum and a puppet show. The popular character even scored a tv show.
Now, the popular icon is unmistakable with a cute appearance, including a snowman’s body, an ice cream cone hat, candy cane-striped mittens, holly wings and a candy cane in hand.
ADVERTISEMENT
Fans of the beloved holiday character still can see him each year at Celebration in the Oaks. Mister Bingle has made an annual appearance each year at Celebration in the Oaks since 2005.
For more about Celebration in the Oaks and Mister Bingle, visit New Orleans City Park’s website.