The Natchitoches downtown riverbank and library were the places to be for spooky family fun on Oct. 23 as children and their families enjoyed the Pumpkin Glow and Fall Carnival events. The downtown riverbank was packed with families celebrating the 2025 Pumpkin Glow. The popular event is still going strong in its 13th year and has become an integral part of Fall in Natchitoches. Pumpkin Glow featured superbly athletic performers from local dance and cheer schools who showed off their skills to the crowd in a variety of routines. The grace, strength and athleticism displayed by the youngsters was simply amazing to see.
Pumpkin Glow also featured the traditional pumpkin decorating contest that drew a number of contestants from throughout the community. This year’s winner was submitted by Ms. Janna Smiley of the Society of Sugar Magnolias, Natchitoches’ first all-female Mardi Gras Krewe. The contest was judged by NSU Associate Professor of Art, Corbin Covher assisted by art students.
The Natchitoches Parish Library also held its annual Fall Carnival that evening. Over 100 children and their families enjoyed games, crafts, and coloring, not to mention a witches’ cauldron full of candy. Natchitoches very own Lagniappe Fusion Belly Dancing Troupe entertained the crowd.
