Natchitoches Christmas Festival facts for kids
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is also known as the Festival of Lights. This exciting event happens every year in Natchitoches, Louisiana. It takes place on the first weekend of December.
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Discover the Natchitoches Christmas Festival
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is a huge celebration. It spreads throughout the whole community each year. The main activities happen in the historic part of Natchitoches. This festival is a very popular attraction. It brings about 100,000 visitors every year.
Because so many people visit, it can be hard to find a hotel room. Many visitors stay in nearby cities. These include Winnfield and Alexandria. Hotel prices can also go up a lot if you don't book early. The main parade route goes along Front Street, Jefferson Street, and Second Street.
A Look Back in Time
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival has been held since 1927. It takes place on the first Saturday in December. The festival was not held only during the years 1941 to 1944. This was due to World War II. This year, the festival celebrates many years of history.
What Happens at the Festival?
The official start of the festival is on the first Saturday of December. There are many fun things to do all day long.
Parade and Entertainment
In the early afternoon, there is a big parade. You can also find an arts and crafts show. Food booths line the riverfront, selling delicious Louisiana food. A famous local treat is the Natchitoches meat pie. Live music and other entertainment fill the air.
Lights and Fireworks Show
The evening ends with a spectacular fireworks show. This show is set to music and includes a laser display. Many people say it is the best fireworks show in Louisiana. After the fireworks, the lights along Cane River are turned on. This display includes over 300,000 lights. There are also more than 100 decorated pieces along the riverbank. The lights stay on until after New Year's Day.
Parade Participants
Many different groups take part in the parade. In 2013, country music singer Frank Foster was the Grand Marshal. He led the parade and also performed. The Northwestern State University Marching Band also joins in. Many high school marching bands and dance teams from Louisiana participate too. Winners of local beauty pageants, like Miss Merry Christmas, are also in the parade. Of course, Santa Claus always makes an appearance! Even marching bands from as far away as Beaumont, Texas, have come to join the parade.
Natchitoches on Screen
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival has been featured in movies. One famous film is Steel Magnolias. This movie was set in Natchitoches.
The festival is also part of the Holiday Trail of Lights. This trail connects several cities in Louisiana and Texas. They all have amazing holiday light displays.
