Natchez Brings Holiday Magic with European Christmas Village and More This December

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

The historic city of Natchez is proud to present its 2024 “Christmas in Natchez” festivities, an enchanting lineup of events celebrating the magic of the holiday season. This year’s program includes guided tours of historic homes adorned in festive décor, horse-drawn carriage rides, the annual tree lighting ceremony, a spirited Christmas parade, and delightful music performances.

A highlight of this year’s celebration is the “European Christmas Shopping Village on the Bluff,” sponsored by American Cruise Lines. Located at 105 S. Broadway Street overlooking the Mississippi River, the village will feature local vendors offering handmade crafts, seasonal treats, an ice-skating rink, and nostalgic animated displays. Visitors can also enjoy trolley rides for convenient downtown shopping. Open from December 6 to 21, the village welcomes guests on Fridays from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Participating downtown shops will extend their hours through December 24 as part of the “Holiday Host and Toast” initiative, ensuring ample time for festive shopping.

Key Events and Activities

• Christmas Pilgrimage Tour of Historic Homes (November 15 – December 31): Explore Natchez’s historic homes elegantly decorated for the season.
• Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony (Saturday, November 30): Festivities begin at 3:00 PM with performances by the Natchez High School Concert Choir, kids’ rides, a petting zoo, food vendors, and caroling. Santa Claus will make a special appearance at Home Bank, and the evening concludes with a tree lighting ceremony, a laser show, and faux snow at 6:30 PM.
• Art on the Bluff (November 30, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM): Shop for unique handmade gifts and artwork by local artists.

Additional Holiday Highlights

• Downtown Natchez Farmer’s Market: Saturdays, 8:30 AM – Noon
• Harmonious Traditions for Flute & Guitar Concert (November 17, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM): A fundraiser for Temple B’nai Israel.
• Alcorn State University Holiday Concert (December 3, 6:00 PM)
• Natchez Festival of Music Christmas Cabaret: Christmas with the Kings of Swing (December 6, 7:00 PM)
• Natchez Merry Market (December 6-7): Enjoy local vendors and holiday shopping.
• Annual Natchez Christmas Parade (December 7, 6:00 PM)
• 3rd Annual Wardo’s Rouxdolph Roll (December 7, 8:00 AM): A fun 10K/5K/Fun Run.
• The Christmas Bus by The Little Natchez Theater (December 12-15)
• Polar Express Trolley Experience (December 13-14): A magical movie event for families.
• Caroling in the Park at Memorial Park (Date and time TBD)

The celebration extends beyond Christmas, honoring Kwanzaa and Hanukkah with special displays to foster inclusion and community spirit.

This year’s “Christmas in Natchez” is made possible by generous sponsors, including the City of Natchez, Visit Natchez, Home Bank, Magnolia Bluffs Hotel & Casino, Entergy Mississippi, Byrne Insurance Agency, Magnolia Village Assisted Living, Merit Health Natchez, Silas Simmons LLP, Tate & Company, Community Alliance of Natchez-Adams County, Listen Up Y’all Media, American Cruise Lines, Natchez Film Company, The Natchez Democrat, and the Natchez Convention Center.

Join us in Natchez to celebrate the season with joy, tradition, and holiday magic!