Cane River National Heritage Area (CRNHA) has been awarded a 2026-2027 Greener Grounds Grant from Keep Louisiana Beautiful (KLB) and the Office of Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser to strengthen waste reduction, recycling, and litter prevention efforts during the Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights Parade. This $1,435 grant will support CRNHA’s efforts to implement sustainable waste management practices that reduce litter and enhance the overall experience for attendees.
“As we welcome thousands of people downtown to celebrate the 100th season of Christmas in Natchitoches, we also have a responsibility to take care of the place that makes this tradition so special,” said Rebecca Blankenbaker, Executive Director of Cane River National Heritage Area. “This grant will help us make responsible waste disposal easier for parade participants, volunteers, and visitors while reducing litter and helping keep our historic district and Cane River clean throughout the celebration.”
Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser said the Greener Grounds Grant Program helps event organizers preserve the beauty of Louisiana while enhancing the visitor experience. “Louisiana’s festivals and community events are a vital part of our culture and economy,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. “Through the Greener Grounds Grant Program, we’re helping event organizers reduce waste, prevent litter, and preserve the beauty of our communities so residents and visitors alike can continue enjoying these special events for generations to come.”
KLB Executive Director Susan Russell said the program encourages organizers to think beyond event cleanup by implementing long-term waste reduction strategies. “Louisiana is home to hundreds of festivals and outdoor events that celebrate our unique food, music, history, and culture. While we all love to laissez les bons temps rouler, we also have a responsibility to ensure the waste generated at these events doesn’t become litter that harms our communities, waterways, wildlife, and coastline,” said Russell. “By planning ahead and implementing proven waste reduction strategies, organizers can create cleaner events, improve the visitor experience, and help protect Louisiana’s natural beauty.”
The Greener Grounds Grant Program provides funding to eligible Louisiana nonprofits, municipalities, and parishes hosting outdoor events with at least 1,000 attendees per day. Grant recipients use the funding to implement best practices for waste reduction, litter prevention, and recycling outlined in the Greener Grounds Guidebook and Greener Grounds Workbook, developed by Keep Louisiana Beautiful in partnership with French Quarter Festivals, Inc.
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights Parade will roll through Downtown Natchitoches on Saturday, December 5th at 1:00 PM. For more information, visit Natchitocheschristmas.com.