A Hundred Years Of Christmas Spirit Shines In A Louisiana Town
Natchitoches, Louisiana—America’s oldest settlement from the Louisiana Purchase—turns into a festive small-town getaway each holiday season. Its six-week celebration, dating back to 1927, fills the historic district and Cane River Lake with more than 300,000 lights, set pieces, fireworks, parades, and riverfront displays. Visitors can enjoy lighted boat parades, weekend events, craft markets, and seasonal treats while exploring charming shops, historic homes, and French-Quarter-style streets. The long-running festival blends tradition, community spirit, and small-town holiday magic.