Christmas Festival of Lights
Natchitoches
November 18, 2006 – January 6, 2007

The Christmas Festival of Lights in Natchitoches, LA (pronounced nack-a-tish) is a huge annual event that has taken place in this historic town for more than 75 years. It may not be as well known down in the New Orleans area, but when the subject of Christmas celebrations arises, people from around the state always mention the Natchitoches Festival of Lights with reverence in their voices.

Rich in history, Natchitoches is a pretty town along the banks of the Cane River, and has great charm any time of the year. It is the oldest permanent settlement in Louisiana. Founded in 1714 to promote trade with the local Indians and the Spanish in Mexico, Natchitoches played a major role in the history of Texas and Louisiana. Natchitoches might be familiar to many as the setting for many scenes in the movie Steel Magnolias and home of the popular regional dish - meat pies.

Over 150,000 people flock to this historic town on the first Saturday in December and are treated to the Christmas Festival parade. The parade winds through town around 1 p.m., and everyone awaits nightfall when the lights come on, and the incredible fireworks display is set off over the water. Over 300,000 multi-colored Christmas lights and 77 huge set pieces light up the historic district and all along scenic Cane River Lake.

Along Front Street, which borders the water, the city provides musical entertainment and a selection of food booths. The grassy bank is also a prime spot to watch the fireworks. If you'd like to enjoy the magic of the lights, but want to avoid the massive crowds, the lights will be up through New Year's. Each Saturday in December, live music will be presented as well as holiday tours of historic homes and fireworks displays.

Two more items worthy of mention: 1) alcohol is unavailable at the festival and is not allowed to be brought in, and 2) keep in mind that people will arrive all day to attend the big events on December 6th, but practically everyone will leave at the exact same time after the fireworks - so expect heavy delays when leaving town. Good things to know in advance.

2006 dates: November 18, 2006 – January 6, 2007

Directions: Natchitoches, LA is located about 45 minutes north of Alexandria, LA. Turn off I-49, and head east on LA 6 for four miles towards Natchitoches. As you enter town, pass the university, and the road will fork. Bear left, which will bring you directly into the downtown area. Parking is where you can find it, and you may have quite a walk to the action.

For more information, visit www.christmasfestival.com.

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Photography © Syndey Byrd
Story © Julie Posner