NATCHITOCHES, La. -- Christmas Eve is five months away, and the historic town of Natchitoches is already gearing up for a milestone celebration.
Officials on Friday kicked off the countdown to the 100th anniversary of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights, unveiling plans for a year filled with special events, exhibits and new attractions along the Cane River.
The celebration began with a visit from Santa Claus and his helpers, setting the tone for the centennial year. A ceremonial lighting highlighted the start of preparations for Louisiana's longest-running community celebration.
Reigning Miss Merry Christmas in front of display honoring 7 decades of pageantry.
Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. reflected on the festival's century-long legacy, noting that while the world has changed dramatically, the event's purpose has remained constant.
"Technology, transportation, communication and entertainment have all changed dramatically. But the heart of this celebration has remained the same for 100 years. Christmas in Natchitoches has brought people together," Williams said.
A new museum exhibit traces the history of the Christmas Festival of Lights, showcasing its evolution from modest beginnings with simple light displays to the nationally recognized celebration that now features a holiday parade, fireworks and festivities that attract visitors from across the country and around the world. The exhibit will remain open through January at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum.Â
To mark the festival's 100th anniversary, organizers have planned several special events and commemorative offerings throughout the year.
Among the highlights is the 70th annual Miss Merry Christmas Pageant in September, where the reigning titleholder will crown her successor. During the Christmas Festival Parade, former Miss Merry Christmas queens will reunite as the parade's grand marshals in a special centennial tribute.
New additions this year include a storefront decorating contest and a free interactive Children's Christmas Village designed to give families another festive attraction during the holiday season.
Christina Friday with the City of Natchitoches encouraged residents and visitors to take part in the celebration.
"Every act of participation helps make this year's Christmas festival unforgettable," Friday said.
Natchitoches Tourism Director Paige Alost said the centennial celebration is an opportunity to honor the festival's rich history while looking toward its future.
"One hundred years of magic, 100 years of tradition, 100 years of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights," Alost said.
A complete schedule of centennial events is available on here. It also offers commemorative items available for purchase.Â
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