Christmas in July:

Countdown to 100

plan your trip

As Natchitoches prepares to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, the community is invited to kick off the countdown to Christmas with “Christmas in July: Countdown to 100,” a day-long celebration featuring special exhibits, shopping experiences, restaurant participation, music, and holiday-themed activities throughout the Historic District.

Held exactly 6 months before Christmas Eve, the event will serve as the official public kickoff to the Centennial Celebration and will highlight the businesses, traditions, and community spirit that have shaped Christmas in Natchitoches for generations. 

tentative schedule of events
on july 24th, 2026

10:00 AM - PRESS CONFERENCE & CENTENNIAL KICKOFF

Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum - Media Room

  • Official launch of the Christmas Festival Centennial Celebration
  • Centennial announcements and remarks from community leaders
  • Poster unveiling
  • Recognition of sponsors and partners
  • Media opportunities and interviews
  • Santa Claus
  • Launch official merchandise for Christmas 100

11:00 AM - OPENING OF THE "CHRISTMAS 100" EXHIBIT

Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum - Second Floor

  • Public opening of the exhibit commemorating 100 years of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, created by the Cane River National Heritage Area
  • Exhibit tours & photo opportunities

11:00 AM - CENTENNIAL RECEPTION

Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum - Museum Lobby

  • Light Refreshments
  • Networking & community fellowship
  • Historic photos & holiday music

12:00 PM - CHRISTMAS IN JULY DOWNTOWN ACTIVATION BEGINS

Historic District & Front Street

Participating businesses and restaurants are encouraged to feature:

  • Christmas-themed window displays
  • Holiday merchandise tables or sidewalk sales
  • Christmas cocktails or menu specials
  • Festive treats and summer holiday promotions
  • In-store activities, giveaways, or ornament stations
  • “Christmas in July” specials and promotions
  • Holiday music and festive decor
  • Decorate store fronts
  • Encourage staff to dress in festive attire

7:00 PM - CHRISTMAS ON THE RIVERBANK

Downtown Riverbank Stage Area

Families are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets for a community movie night, featuring “The Grinch”, along Cane River.
 
  • Pre-movie family activites
  • Popcorn, snacks, and treats available for purchase from venders. 
  • Photo opportunities and Centennial promotions
  • Movie begins at dusk
SPONSORS

Natchitoches Convention & Visitors Bureau, Cane River National Heritage Area, & Historic District Business Association