The Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission met July 16 for its monthly meeting, receiving financial updates and reports from local organizations on upcoming events and projects throughout the Historic District.
Vanner Erikson reported that Northwestern State University recently completed its Freshman Connection sessions, serving 175 more students than last year. He thanked the commission for its assistance in welcoming students and families to Natchitoches.
Upcoming NSU events include registration on July 23, continued performances of the summer dinner theater, Summer Bridge activities for football, basketball, volleyball and baseball, move-in day on Aug. 15, and the first day of classes on Aug. 17. Erikson also announced the Top of the Boot Festival will be held Oct. 17 in conjunction with an NSU football game.
Sandra Dickens reported approximately 170 vehicles have registered for the HDBA Car Show. Information to participants has been delayed because of ongoing construction.
Rebecca Blankenbaker provided an update on the Cane River National Heritage Area’s kickoff for the 100th Natchitoches Christmas season. A Christmas in July celebration is planned for Friday, July 24, featuring a press conference, poster unveiling, sponsor recognition, the opening of the Christmas 100 exhibit, holiday music, refreshments and exhibit tours.
Downtown businesses will participate by decorating for Christmas, offering special promotions, and serving holiday-themed food and drinks.
Lee Akin reported that tickets for the Christmas Tour of Homes are already available online. Individuals purchasing tickets before Labor Day will be entered into a drawing featuring items from local vendors. The Roque House will be open for tours during the July 24 celebration.
Gayle Howell announced the Melrose Arts, Food and Wine Festival has been rescheduled for Oct. 10-11. APHN will host a White Linen Night membership appreciation event Aug. 20 at 5 p.m. at the Lemee House.
The commission also reviewed upcoming Riverbank events, including:
- July 25 – Natchitoches Farmer’s Market
- Sept. 4-5 – Zydeco Festival
- Sept. 18-19 – Meat Pie Festival
- Sept. 26 – R&B on the River
- Oct. 2-3 – HDBA Car Show
- Oct. 9 – Crows on the Cane
- Oct. 17 – Fall Farmer’s Market
- Oct. 23 – NSU Drums Along the River and Wright Wedding (Beau Jardin)
- Oct. 24 – NSU Boogie on the Bricks and Fall Farmer’s Market
- Oct. 29 – Pumpkin Glow
- Oct. 31 – Fall Farmer’s Market and Witch Way to Main Street
- Nov. 7 – Fall Farmer’s Market and CASA 5K
- Nov. 14 – Fall Farmer’s Market
- Nov. 21 – Turn on the Holidays
- Nov. 22 – Light the Way 5K
- Nov. 28 – Christmas Festival
- Dec. 5, 12, 19 and 26 – Christmas Festival
- Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show
- Jan. 2 – Christmas Festival
- Jan. 16 – Krewe of the 9 Mardi Gras Parade