The historic city of Natchitoches is thrilled to invite the media and members of the public to a landmark celebration as it officially kicks off the countdown to the historic 100th Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights. The “Christmas in July” Press Conference & Centennial Exhibit Unveiling on Friday, July 24 at 10 am will celebrate a century of holiday magic in the heart of the Natchitoches Historic District. The event will be held at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum, located at 800 Front Street in the Landmark Historic District of Natchitoches.
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is Louisiana’s longest-running community celebration and one of the nation’s oldest Christmas festivals. Visitors travel from across the country and around the world to attend the six-week festival each year.
Event Schedule:
10:00 AM – Press Conference & Centennial Kickoff
This opening segment will feature official details about the upcoming 100th Natchitoches Christmas Festival schedule, new additions to the festival, and the release of several centennial collectible items, including a bracelet, an ornament, and the Official Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights poster.
10:45 AM – Opening of the “Christmas 100” Exhibit
Guests will head to the second floor for the official opening of the “Christmas 100” exhibit, featuring exclusive exhibit tours and dedicated photo opportunities. The exhibit explores the history of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, beginning with the first event held in 1927 with just a simple string of lights along the downtown riverfront.
11:00 AM – Centennial Reception
The celebration concludes in the Museum Lobby, where attendees can enjoy refreshments, view historic photos, and enjoy festive holiday music.
The event is co-presented by organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Louisiana’s oldest city. They include the Cane River National Heritage Area, represented by Rebecca Blankenbaker; the Natchitoches Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau, represented by Paige Alost; and the Natchitoches Historic District Business Association and Christmas Festival Planning Committee, represented by Sandra Dickens.
All media members, community members, and history enthusiasts are warmly invited to attend this kickoff and share in celebrating 100 years of holiday magic at the Natchitoches Christmas Festival. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP but it is not required.
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