October 15, 2026: Natchitoches Parish Daily Sweep

NSU Receives $1.5 Million Grant to Help Preserve Historic Sites
Northwestern State University

Northwestern State University Technical Services has received a $1.5 million National Park Foundation grant to help assess flooding risks to historic sites in the National Park Service’s Southeast Region.

The two-year project, conducted with the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training on NSU’s campus, will use geographic information systems, laser scanning and 3D modeling to evaluate threats to historic buildings and landscapes.

The research will contribute to a National Cultural Resource Risk Atlas, helping preservation officials identify vulnerable sites and develop protection plans. Funding will also support equipment upgrades, additional personnel and student internship opportunities.

Downtown Riverbank to Close Saturday for Farmers Market
City of Natchitoches

The City of Natchitoches advises motorists that the downtown riverbank will be closed to vehicular traffic Saturday, Oct. 17, from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the Natchitoches Farmers Market.

The market is scheduled from 8 a.m. to noon. Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly when traveling downtown during the closure.

Partial Riverbank Closure Friday for Community Movie Night
City of Natchitoches

The City of Natchitoches has announced a partial downtown riverbank road closure Friday, Oct. 16, in preparation for Community Movie Night.

The riverbank will be closed to vehicular traffic from the Church Street bridge to the north side of the stage beginning at 6 a.m. The closure will remain in effect until the event concludes Friday night.

Motorists are encouraged to plan alternate routes and use caution when traveling downtown.

NSU to Open Child Welfare Simulation Lab Nov. 4
Northwestern State University

Northwestern State University will hold a grand opening for its Child Welfare Simulation Lab at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, in Suite 318 of Kyser Hall.

The facility, described as the first of its kind in northern Louisiana, features a realistic home environment where students and professionals can develop practical skills for working with children and families.

The lab is part of the Louisiana Title IV-E Child Welfare Program and is designed to strengthen professional training and workforce development. Visitors can tour the facility and learn about its educational applications. Those interested in attending may contact Dr. Jennifer Shaw at shawj@nsula.edu.

Pumpkin Patch at Pecan Row Welcomes Visitors This Weekend
Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Pumpkin Patch at Pecan Row, 743 Highway 478 in Natchitoches, will welcome visitors Friday through Sunday, Oct. 16-18, for seasonal activities.

Friday’s hours are 4-7 p.m., with Saturday’s activities scheduled from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday’s from 2-6 p.m.

Admission is $10, and children receive a free small pumpkin. The attraction offers pumpkins and family-oriented fall activities throughout the season, with weekend openings continuing during October.

NSU Football to Host McNeese Saturday at Turpin Stadium
Northwestern State University Athletics

Northwestern State University’s football team will host McNeese State University at noon Saturday, Oct. 17, at Turpin Stadium in Natchitoches.

The Southland Conference matchup renews an in-state rivalry between the Demons and Cowboys. The game is designated as a White Out, presented by the Louisiana Lottery and Coca-Cola.

The contest is among several activities scheduled around the university this weekend, including the Top of the Boot Music Festival on Friday and Saturday.


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