Natchitoches began a fun new holiday tradition Sunday, November 23 with the inaugural Natchitoches Heritage Christmas Festival Parade, sponsored by the Lagacy Project of Louisiana, a group founded by local civic leader Ms. Kettevon Triggs Roque.
The parade featured twelve units consisting of dance schools from the local area, Alexandria and Lafayette. The Grand Marshal was Natchitoches native Dr. Travis Batiste. Dr. Batiste is a 2007 NCHS alumni who obtained three degrees from NSU before going on for his doctorate. He also taught algebra at his alma mater, NCHS. Dr. Batiste is currently serving as the Assistant Vice President for Admission and Recruitment for Clark Atlanta University in Georgia. He was joined in the parade by Natchitoches High’s 1965 All State Basketball player Ms. Gloria Ibn-Mohammed. Of course, the major VIP of the parade was the man himself, down from the North pole, Santa Claus. Santa and his elves delighted children along the route with candy and Christmas cheer.
The inaugural Natchitoches Heritage Christmas Festival Parade was a resounding success. It is a welcome addition to the best time of year in our community!
