Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. told listeners of “Good Morning Mayor” that Natchitoches is gearing up for a bustling fall season while advancing key public‑works projects. The mayor highlighted a slate of community events, infrastructure improvements, and the upcoming 100th anniversary of the historic Christmas Festival.
Fall festivals and seasonal attractions
The autumn schedule kicks off with the 20th annual Natchitoches Classic Car Show, set for Friday and Saturday. Williams said the show has “grown consistently year after year” and draws car enthusiasts from across the region.
Seasonal entertainment also includes the Dark Woods haunted attraction at Timber Ridge, which will operate from Oct. 2 through Oct. 31, offering family‑friendly scares.
Northwestern State University (NSU) is launching its inaugural “Top of the Boot” music festival, adding a university‑driven cultural component to the fall lineup. “Fall is really the time for us to shine in the city of Natchitoches,” the mayor said, noting the blend of university programming, community traditions, and seasonal entertainment.
Infrastructure projects moving forward
Beyond tourism, Williams emphasized ongoing municipal progress. The city is currently constructing a new fire station to enhance emergency response capabilities. In addition, a major street‑improvement project is underway to upgrade local roadways and improve safety for residents and visitors.
“We’re continuing to try to improve our infrastructure,” Williams said. “I know that could be a pain to people sometimes, but it’s all good, really good progress.”
Partnership with Northwestern State University
Williams underscored the importance of a strong relationship with NSU, the largest employer in Natchitoches Parish. He noted quarterly meetings with NSU President James Genovese to ensure coordination on municipal planning and talent retention.
The mayor also highlighted the region’s educational assets, including the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) and the Scholars College, describing the student workforce as a key draw for potential major employers.
Centennial Christmas Festival preparations
Preparations are well underway for the landmark 100th anniversary of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, scheduled for Nov. 21 through Jan. 6, 2027. Municipal utility crews have begun installing structural supports downtown, where seven miles of light streamers and 300,000 holiday lights will be strung.
The celebration is organized primarily by the Historic District Business Association, the Cane River National Heritage Area, and local tourism partners. Notable headliners include former Miss Merry Christmas titleholders returning as grand marshals on Dec. 5, and LSU women’s basketball head coach Kim Mulkey serving as parade captain, a partnership facilitated with assistance from NSU women’s basketball coach Alan Frey.
The festivities will culminate with a college‑basketball showdown on Dec. 6, when the LSU women’s team faces Northwestern State at Prather Coliseum, followed by NSU’s annual Christmas Gala.
Looking ahead
Mayor Williams concluded by reaffirming the city’s commitment to blending tradition with progress. By investing in infrastructure, fostering university partnerships, and promoting vibrant community events, Natchitoches aims to attract families, businesses, and visitors alike throughout the fall and into the historic holiday season.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
