As the Natchitoches Christmas Festival celebrates 100 years of holiday tradition, former Miss Merry Christmas titleholders from across the decades will return to Natchitoches to serve collectively as the Honorary Grand Marshals of the 2026 Natchitoches Christmas “Festival of Lights” Parade on Saturday, December 5, 2026.
The announcement comes as parade applications officially open for what organizers hope will be the largest and most memorable parade in the festival’s history.
For generations, the Miss Merry Christmas program has been one of the festival’s most beloved traditions. Representing the spirit, hospitality, and pride of the community, Miss Merry Christmas titleholders have served as ambassadors for the City of Natchitoches and the Christmas Festival, welcoming visitors and carrying on the traditions that have made the celebration a Louisiana treasure.
The honorary recognition celebrates the women who have helped shape the festival’s history while preserving its traditions for future generations.
“Miss Merry Christmas has long been an important part of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival,” said Rebecca Blankenbaker, Parade Director for the festival. “These women represent generations of community pride and holiday tradition, and it is only fitting that they be recognized during this once-in-a-century celebration. We also hope their participation inspires others to be part of this historic parade by entering a float, marching unit, or organization.”
As part of the day’s festivities, former title holders will be invited to attend a special Miss Merry Christmas Reunion prior to the parade. The reunion will provide an opportunity for participants to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate the legacy of the festival and the role each has played in its history.
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Natchitoches Christmas “Festival of Lights” Parade, which will take place on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 1 p.m. Beginning on the campus of Northwestern State University, the parade will make its way through Historic Downtown Natchitoches along Front Street before returning to campus.
Marching bands, dance lines, twirling groups, equestrian units, civic organizations, businesses, schools, churches, specialty units, and community organizations are encouraged to apply. Decorated floats and creative entries of all kinds are invited to help make this centennial parade one of the most spectacular in the festival’s history.
“Whether you’ve participated for decades or have always wanted to be part of the parade, there’s never been a better time to join us,” Blankenbaker said. “This is an opportunity to be part of a milestone that will be remembered for generations.”
Parade applications will remain open through November 6, 2026.
Applications and additional information are available at natchitocheschristmas.com/parade. Questions may be directed to natchitocheschristmasparade@gmail.com. Follow the Natchitoches Christmas Festival on social media for additional announcements and updates throughout the centennial celebration.