The official poster for the 100th Annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights was unveiled today during the city’s “Christmas in July” press conference and centennial exhibit unveiling at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum.

The event officially launches the countdown to the 100th Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights.

This year’s poster was created by Anna Rachal, an art teacher at NSU Elementary Lab School.

Rachal has 12 years of experience in art education and is a graduate of Northwestern State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in fine art with a concentration in drawing and painting media. She later earned a Master of Arts in Teaching from Louisiana College.

Outside the classroom, Rachal works as a fine artist while balancing family life. She is passionate about inspiring young artists and creating a positive, inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported.

“This painting is a tribute to the history, heritage, and heart of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival. It has been an incredible honor to preserve a century of memories on one canvas,” said Rachal.

The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is Louisiana’s longest-running community celebration and one of the nation’s oldest Christmas festivals, attracting visitors from across the country and around the world each holiday season. The centennial celebration marks 100 years of the festival.

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