he Farmers' Almanac isn't predicting a white Christmas for our area in 2022, but it will be a winter wonderland, nonetheless, thanks to the Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights. The trail runs along Interstate 20 and Interstate 49 and includes 10 cities: Shreveport-Bossier City, Minden, Monroe-West Monroe, Natchitoches, Alexandria-Pineville, Ruston, and Logansport. Each stop is within an hour's drive of its neighboring city on the trail, so plan accordingly and don't miss the chance to experience all the fun and excitement the Holiday Trail of Lights has to offer.
Alexandria-Pineville
Central Louisiana’s unique holiday traditions—old-fashioned Christmas celebrations at Kent House, Teddy Bear Tea at the historic Hotel Bentley, and River Oaks Arts Center Porch Sales—are waiting for you to experience. The Alex Winter Fête returns to Alexandria, Dec. 8 – 11. The free, family-friendly holiday festival includes an outdoor ice-skating rink, live music, Ugly Sweater 5k, and fireworks display.
Natchitoches
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival celebrates its 96th season, Nov. 19 – Jan. 6. Thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the downtown district and Cane River Lake, creating a magical backdrop for fireworks every Saturday night and live entertainment throughout the six-week holiday season. Experience carriage tours through the National Historic Landmark District, the Northwestern State University Christmas Gala, and the Christmas Tour of Homes presented by the Natchitoches Historic Foundation.
Logansport
Logansport joins the Holiday Trail of Lights for the first time this year, beginning the season with a Christmas Festival Premiere Night on Nov. 19. Entertainment and special events happen every Saturday through Dec. 17, and families can enjoy walking or driving through the Christmas light displays along the Sabine River through Jan. 1.
Monroe-West Monroe
Get in the Christmas spirit with Christmas on the River, Nov. 11 – Dec. 31. The season begins with the Freedom Trees at the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, followed by Santa’s Christmas Village at the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum, outdoor holiday movies, and Candy Cane Lane, a drive-through light park in Calhoun. Festival Weekend, Dec. 1 – 4, will be packed full of holiday cheer with the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ouachita Christmas Parade and the Bawcomville Redneck Parade.
Minden
Experience the charm of historic downtown Minden with life-sized nutcrackers and thousands of twinkling lights, Nov. 15 – Dec. 31. Visit Santa, shop at locally owned antique stores, and tour local museums throughout the season. Add the Christmas in Minden Festival to your itinerary, Dec. 16 – 17. Enjoy food, children’s activities, a Christmas parade, and fireworks.
Ruston
Join Ruston Art Encounter for a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience in downtown Ruston, Nov. 26. Festivities include music, culinary arts, and performing arts. The annual Kickoff to Christmas begins right after, with merry activities, holiday tunes, a tree lighting ceremony, and a visit from Santa. The holiday magic will come to life when Santa makes another stop in Ruston on Dec. 10 at Railroad Park. Bring the kids to decorate cookies, drink hot chocolate, and visit with Saint Nick.
Shreveport-Bossier City
Celebrate the season of peace and goodwill towards all in Shreveport-Bossier when Christmas in Roseland presents its dazzling light displays and fun for the whole family, Nov. 25 – 27, Dec. 2 – 4, Dec. 9 – 11, and Dec. 19 – 23. Get in the holiday spirit with Christmas music, Santa Claus, and a fireworks display at the Rockets Over the Red Fireworks Festival on Nov. 26. Go on a Christmas journey at Shreveport Aquarium’s Believe! Lights the Night, Nov. 25 – Dec. 23; families can explore Shreveport Aquarium, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, create holiday crafts, and more.
For more information on the Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights dates and events, please visit holidaytrailoflights.com.
