Southwest Louisiana Christmas activities

Published: Nov. 15, 2017 at 5:51 PM CST|Updated: Dec. 24, 2017 at 12:02 PM CST
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SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA (KPLC) - The following is a list of the Christmas activities going on in the area:

Lake Charles

Pictures with Santa: Through Sunday, Dec. 24, in the Sears Court at the Prien Lake Mall. For more information, call 337-477-7487.

Lake Charles Carriages Christmas Light Ride: Nov. 24 until January 6, 2018, at Lake Charles Civic Center Promenade, 900 Lakeshore Drive. Celebrate this holiday season the old fashion way with family and friends, while riding in a seasonally decorated mule-drawn carriage through the decorated neighborhoods of Historic Downtown Lake Charles. Make this a truly festive occasion, and a Holiday tradition to treasure for years to come. For more information, call 337-324-0137.

Handmade Christmas Cards & Letters to Santa: Nov. 27 until Dec. 30, at the Historic City Hall Arts & Humanities Cultural Center, 1001 Ryan Street. Materials will be provided, and all ages are welcome to take part. Children's letters will be delivered directly to the North Pole. Cards will be distributed to area nursing homes. Gallery Hours: Mon.-Fri, 10 a.m. -5 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information, call 337-491-9147.

L'Auberge Lake Charles' Annual Gingerbread House Display: Beginning Friday, Dec. 1 until Sunday, Dec. 31, at L'Auberge Casino Resort. Made with real gingerbread, sugar and other confections, this sweet structure is sure to be a holiday marvel. Visit L'Auberge during the month of December to view the festive display and take your holiday photos in front of it. For more info, visit www.lakecharles.com.

Lake Area Adventures: Pontoon Christmas Light Tours: Beginning Friday, Dec. 1 until Sunday, Dec. 31. See Lake Charles' magical Christmas light display from the lake itself! Bring your family, friends, co-workers or spouse out for a unique view of Lake Charles at Christmas time. Blankets and hot chocolate provided. Do something different for Christmas this year and join us on the water! For more information, call 1-888-902-2016.

Programs and events at the Children's Museum:

Saturday, December 23-Tuesday, December 26: Christmas

Merry Christmas from our family to yours! We will be CLOSED.

Wednesday, December 27: Holiday Fun

Tissue Paper Snowman Workshop: Make a tissue paper snowman. Class begins at 11 a.m. and is limited to 15 children, ages 4 and up.

Holiday Crafts: Holiday themed projects will be available from 12-1 p.m. on a first-come first-served basis. Limit one project per child.

Movie Time: At 1 p.m., we will have popcorn and watch "Frosty the Snowman" and "Frosty Returns!"

Thursday, December 28: New Year's Hat

Create a festive New Year's hat! Classes begin at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. and are limited to 20 children, ages 4 and up.

Friday, December 29: New Year's Eve Clock

Make a New Year's Eve Clock to countdown the New Year! Classes begin at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. and are limited to 20 children, ages 4 and up.

Saturday, December 30: New Year's Eve Eve

Join us for a balloon drop at noon as we countdown to the New Year!

Monday, January 1: New Year's Day 

The museum will be closed. Happy New Year!

Tuesday, January 2: Wooden Snowflake

Decorate a wooden snowflake to hang in your window. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. and are limited to 24 children, ages 3 and up.

Wednesday, January 3: Snowman Photo Holder

Make a snowman photo holder. Class begins at 11 a.m. and is limited to 25 children, ages 4 and up.

Saturday, January 6: Winter Crafts

Winter themed projects will be available from 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. on a first-come first-served basis. Limit one project per child.

The Children's Museum provides a safe and educational place to explore, learn, play and imagine while encouraging curiosity and creativity through hands-on programs and exhibits. The Children's Museum is located at 327 Broad Street downtown Lake Charles. Museum hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $8.50 for children and adults. Admission applies to all workshops and activities. You can call 337-433-9420 or visit www.swlakids.org for a complete list of admission fees, memberships and birthday party information. You can also find information on the Museum on Facebook and Twitter, where you can like and follow them.

Sulphur

Annual Gingerbread House Voting and Display: Beginning Saturday, Dec. 2 until Tuesday, Dec. 26, at the Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point located at 2740 Ruth Street in Sulphur. Come and see homemade decorated gingerbread houses on display and vote for your favorite! For more information, call 337-436-9588, 1-800-456-SWLA, or visit www.visitlakecharles.org.

Holiday Extravaganza Mini-Christmas Tree Display: Dec. 8-26, at the Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point, 2740 Ruth Street. For more information, call Shanna Landry at 337-502-4233 or email slandry@visitlakecharles.org.

Westlake

Christmas Art Exhibition: Dec. 17-28, The Westlake Recreation Center will hold an art exhibition in the lobby. There will be paintings, wood burning, and many more crafts.

Vinton

Annual Trees of Hope, Charity Tree Decorating Contest: This year, the trees will be on display beginning Saturday, Dec. 2 until Tuesday, Dec. 26, at Delta Downs Racetrack Casino and Hotel, located at 2717 Delta Downs Drive. The public is invited to view the trees and vote for their favorite. Participants in this year's contest are to be announced. For more information, call 337-589-7441 or visit www.deltadowns.com.

PREVIOUS CHRISTMAS EVENTS:

Lake Charles

Light up the Lake Christmas Celebration: Saturday, Dec. 2. A street parade will roll through downtown Lake Charles at 11 a.m. There will be a Santa's Workshop from 1 - 5 p.m. at the Civic Center. The Lake Charles Community Band will perform a Christmas Concert at Trinity Baptist Church. The lighting ceremony will take place from 5-6 p.m., at the Civic Center's front lawn. The lighted boat parade will begin 6:30 p.m. and fireworks at 7:15 p.m. For more information, call 337-491-1440 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.

McNeese State Holiday Art Sale: The annual holiday art sale will be held from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at McNeese State University Shearman Fine Arts Center Grand Gallery. McNeese art students and faculty will be displaying over 300 artworks. Available works include photographs, drawings, artists books, paintings, mixed media works, wheel-thrown and hand-built ceramic vessels and a wide range of printing processes. For more information, call the McNeese Department of Visual Arts at 337-475-5060.

Breakfast with Santa: Begins at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Prien Lake Mall Food Court. Children will have the opportunity to enjoy breakfast with Santa. A variety of crafts and story time will also be offered. For more information, call 337-477-7487.

Santa's Hot Chocolate Run: Saturday, Dec. 2, at Central School Arts & Humanities Center located at 809 Kirby Street. Santa's Hot Chocolate Run is a chip-timed 5K run/walk and fundraiser hosted by the Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana. The event is on USATF certified courses - both 5K and 1 mile. Onsite registration is $40. For information about early registration, regular registration, child rates and hot chocolate, call the Literacy Council at 337-494-7000 or email santarun@literacyswla.org.

Cinderella's Holiday Dining: This magical encounter occurs on Saturday, Dec. 2, with seating at noon at Central School Arts & Humanities Center located at 809 Kirby Street. The cost is $25.00 per person (everyone must have a ticket including adults and infants). Seating is limited and reservations must be made. For more information, call the theater box office at 337-433-7323 or visit www.childrenstheatre.cc.

Caring Santa for Children with Special Needs: Children with special needs get one-on-one time with Santa without the distraction of mall traffic, from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 3 at the Prien Lake Mall. Caring Santa provides a subdued and welcoming environment for children with special needs and their families. For more information, call 337-477-7487.

Lake Charles Symphony Holiday Home Tour: The tour will be held from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3. Admission is $50 per person. Several homes will be delightfully decorated for the holiday season. After touring the homes, enjoy music and complimentary refreshments. Funds raised by the Holiday Home Tour will benefit the Symphony's Educational Outreach Program. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Symphony office at 337-433-1611 or visit the website at www.lcsymphony.com.

Pet Photos with Santa: Sunday, Dec. 10, from 6-8 p.m., in the Sears Court at Prien Lake Mall. Many pet owners view their pet as an integral member of the family and are just as committed to caring for their pets as their 'human' family members. For more information, call 337-477-7487.

Glad Tidings Church: How Christmas Saved the Grinch: Sunday, Dec. 10 at the church, 3400 Texas Street. A Christmas musical that all ages will enjoy (young and old). It will warm your heart and make it grow three sizes! Showings are at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Free admission. For more information, call 337-477-7774 or www.gladtidingschurch.com.

Handel's Messiah: Lake Charles Chorus & Orchestra: The 77th production of The Messiah will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3 at McNeese State University's Tritico Theater located at 4205 Ryan Street. For more information, call 337-477-0662 or visit www.lcmessiah.org.

Vintage Carriage Company Shell Beach Christmas light tours: Saturday, Dec. 3 until January 7, 2018, at 900 Lakeshore Drive in Lake Charles. Price list available upon request. For more information, call 337-794-5591.

Francis G. Bulber Youth Orchestra Christmas Concert: Begins at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, McNeese State University's Bulber Auditorium. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged. For more information, call 337-582-2466.

Christian Youth Theater presents Elf Jr.: The Musical: Dec. 1-3 at Lake Charles Boston Academy, 1509 Enterprise Boulevard. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for children and seniors. For more information, visit www.cytlakecharles.org.

Very Merry Christmas Party for Seniors: A festive day for seniors 60+ who reside in Calcasieu Parish, begins at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 6 with a continental breakfast. Music will be provided by Ed Jardell & the Louisiana Scramble Band for the seniors to dance the day away. A nutritious lunch will be served and bingo will be played for prizes until noon. For more information, call 337-474-2583 ext. 1050.

The Wild Vine: A Winter Wine Event: Events begins at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Cigar Club, 700 East Prien Lake Road, Suite 5. This palette stimulating evening will feature wine flights, raffles, cigar and wine specials and a free tasting of 5 decadent wines: Skyfall Cabernet Antigual Uno Malbec, Zaccagnini Pinot Grigio, Wente Riva Ranch Chardonay and Day Owl Rose. Admission is free (to guests 21 and up).For more information, call 337-562-8889.

Christmas at the Courthouse: Friday, Dec. 8, from 3:30- 8 p.m. at 1001 Ryan Street. Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, Cindy Lou Who, the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker, Santa's elves – and even an Elf on the Shelf will be on site to spread Christmas cheer and to pose for photos with residents of all ages. Elementary, middle and high school choirs will sing Christmas favorites. At 5:30 p.m., Police Jurors will flip on the lights. After the lights go on, plan to stick around to enjoy a couple of animated Christmas classics --"Mickey's Christmas Carol" will begin at 6 p.m., followed by Dr. Seuss' "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." Free popcorn, cotton candy, soft drinks and hot chocolate will be served at the event.

Itinerant Theatre presents It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play: Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, at 7 pm and Sunday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m., at Lake Charles Little Theatre, 813 Enterprise Boulevard. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. To purchase tickets, call 337-436-6275 or visit www.itineranttheatre.com.

Lake Charles Civic Ballet: 'Twas the Night Before Christmas and Other Holiday Treats: Thursday, Dec. 7 until Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Lake Charles Civic Center's Rosa Hart Theatre. There will be an 11 a.m. matinee and 6 p.m. gala show. Santa and his elves have lots of treasures in their toy box. Christmas clowns, a battalion of Toy Soldiers, a Christmas card that comes to life, and a rowdy Holiday Hoedown are just a few of the treats in store. For more information, call 337-912-4672 or visit www.lakecharlescivicballet.com.

Louisiana Choral Foundation Christmas Concert: The annual Christmas Concert will be offered again in two venues, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at First United Methodist Church in Lake Charles, and at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at Immaculate Conception Church located at 2700 Maplewood Drive in Sulphur. Tickets are $15 for general admission and FREE for children and students with I.D. For more information, call 337-491-9348 or visit http://lachoral.org/.

The Bishop's Gala: The 6th annual Bishop's Gala will be held from 6:30-11:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall. Tickets will be $125 each and special sponsorship opportunities will be available. Silent auction starts at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call 337-439-7400 or visit www.lcdiocese.org.

Central School Holiday Art Market: Dec. 8-10, Central School Arts & Humanities Center located at 809 Kirby Street. The Arts Council of Southwest Louisiana invites the public to shop local art for Christmas gifts during our festive Holiday Art Market. The Holiday Art Market offers an array of fine and handmade items by local artisans, with 10% of the proceeds benefiting SWLA arts, and live performances from area arts organizations. Admission is free. For more information, call 337-439-ARTS (2787) or visit www.artscouncswla.org.

Big Band Christmas Concert: 7-9 p.m. Dec. 15, at Lake Charles Boston Academy, 1509 Enterprise Boulevard. Big Band in it's Classic Style. Incredible musicians provide the rhythm and background for silky vocals from these professional vocalists. This is an event for the entire family and also entertains every age group. Set with a Christmas flavor this show will be a memorable concert. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors 65+ and $5 for students. For more information, call 337-433-7988.

Whiskers in Wonderland: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 16, at Calcasieu Parish Animal Services & Adoption Center, 5500 A Swift Plant Road, Lake Charles. Please come and join us for a holly jolly good time at our adoption event. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet loveable adoptable animals. Have your photo taken with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus and your newly adopted friend for only $5. If you would like to bring a donation of items, we will be accepting treats and toys for cats and dogs. The center is accepting items like food, toys, beds, brushes and shampoo for cats and dogs. For more information, please contact the center at 337-721-3730.

Lakewood Bible Fellowship Live Nativity: Beginning Thursday, Dec. 14 until Saturday, Dec. 16, the Lakewood Bible Fellowship is hosting their annual live nativity scene from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 2520 W. Sale Road.

South City Christian Church Kids Party / Mother's Day Out: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16. Ages 3 (must be potty trained) – 12. There will be a snowball fight, Santa's sleigh, reindeer games, Christmas crafts, snacks & a story. Parents, if you need some kid-free shopping or just a rest or if you want to come hang out you are welcome to stay. Must RSVP. RSVP by messaging us through Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SouthCityChristianChurch/) or our website (http://southcitychristianchurch.org/kids-christmas-party/). Must include parent's name and phone number and child's name, age and any food allergies. Visit: www.facebook.com/events/496945157354161/

ACTS Theatre: Dashing Through The Snow: Performances will be held Dec. 8; Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Dec. 9 – 11; and Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Dec. 10–17, at the One Reid Street Theatre located at the corner of Reid and South Railroad Avenue. For ticket information, call  337-433-ACTS (2287) or visit www.actstheatre.com.

South City Christian Church's You be the Nativity, 6-8 p.m. Dec. 20-22. It's a live nativity, but you're taking part. There will be costumes for attendees who want to dress up and play a role in the nativity. Bring the whole family and create next year's Christmas card.

Crave Gourmet's "Holiday Pairing & Sharing": Beginning Saturday, Nov. 4 until Saturday, Dec. 23, at Crave Gourmet located at 2801 Ryan Street, Suite 100. Join us at Crave Gourmet every Saturday from noon to 3 p.m., for a complimentary tasting of wine, cheese, and artisan foods. We will share great tips on wine and food pairings along with gift ideas for holiday celebrations. Admission is free. For more information, call 337-421-0040.

Programs and events at the Children's Museum:

Saturday, December 2: Holiday Ornaments

We are making holiday and winter ornaments in the ArtSpace from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. You can bring your ornament home or hang it on our tree.

Saturday, December 9: Sasol's Second Saturday Science Show

Sasol continues its 5S Project with "Food Chemistry" at 11:30 a.m. Presenter Kelly Grenier will perform demonstrations that include the extraction of strawberry DNA, changing the cookie recipe to see how it affects the cookie, with taste testing of course, and more!

Saturday, December 16: Holiday Crafts

Holiday-themed projects will be available from 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. on a first-come-first-served basis. Limit one project per child. Holiday scratch art ornaments will also be available while supplies last.

Tuesday, December 19: Jingle Bell Necklace

Make your own beaded jingle bell necklace to wear for the holidays! Class begins at 11 a.m. and is limited to 24 children, ages 4 and up.

Wednesday, December 20: Holiday Fun

Holiday Prints: Katherine Petty with KPetty Prints will demonstrate holiday printing! Each child will be able to make a print to bring home. Classes begin at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and are limited to 12 children, ages 4 and up.

Movie Time: At 1 p.m., we will have popcorn and watch "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town," "The Little Drummer Boy" and "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol!"

Thursday, December 21: Holiday Fun

Christmas Trees Workshop: Make your own Christmas tree using tissue paper and foam cutouts. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. and are limited to 20 children, ages 4 and up.

DIY Ornaments: We have clear ornaments and lots of materials to make your own unique ornament from 1-2:30 p.m. in the ArtSpace.

Movie Time: At 1 p.m., we will have popcorn and watch "The Grinch!"

Friday, December 22: Holiday Fun

Wooden Nutcracker Workshop: Paint a wooden nutcracker. Class begins at 11 a.m. and is limited to 25 children, ages 4 and up. There is a $1 additional workshop fee for non-members.

Foam Gingerbread House: Decorate a foam gingerbread house with fun foam shapes. Classes begin at 12 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. and are limited to 16 children, ages 3 and up.

Movie Time: At 1 p.m., we will have popcorn and watch "The Santa Clause!"

Sulphur

Sulphur's 12 Days of Christmas: 

  • Monday, Nov. 27, The Ministerial Fellowship presents sunup to sundown scripture reading from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Heritage Square.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 28, The Ministerial Fellowship presents Raise Your Voices Christmas Caroling from 6-7:30 p.m., at The Grove.
  • Wednesday, Nov. 29, Houston River Baptist Church and Iglesia Hispana de Sulphur present: Spanish Language Church Service at The Grove. For more information, call Jose Us at 337-718-1750.
  • Thursday, Nov. 30, Holiday House preview gala with music by Chester Daigle from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets $35. For more information, call Thom Trahan at 337-527-0357.
  • Friday, Dec. 1, Holiday House open from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Entry is $5. For more information, contact Thom Trahan at 337-527-0357.
  • Friday, Dec. 1, Kiwanis Club of Sulphur Annual Christmas Parade at 6 p.m.
  • Friday, Dec. 1, Live Nativity begins at The Grove 6:30 p.m. For more information, call Heather Kramer at 337-513-7797. Maplewood First Baptist Church will provide free hot chocolate and water at the nativity. For more information, call Amy Bruce at 337-802-0894.
  • Friday, Dec. 1, Lighting of the Christmas Tree at The Grove at 8 p.m.
  • Friday, Dec. 1, Carnival opens from 5-10 p.m., wristbands $20.
  • Saturday, Dec. 2, Holiday House open from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Entry is $5. For more information, contact Thom Trahan at 337-527-0357.
  • Saturday, Dec. 2, Live Nativity begins at The Grove 6 p.m. For more information, call Heather Kramer at 337-513-7797. Maplewood First Baptist Church will provide free hot chocolate and water at the nativity. For more information, call Amy Bruce at 337-802-0894.
  • Saturday, Dec. 2, Carnival opens from 12-10 p.m., wristbands $20.
  • Tuesday, Dec. 5, Old Tyme Christmas Brunch for Seniors at the West Cal Event Center from 9:30 – 11:30 am. For more information, call Jody Barrilleaux at 337-794-3113.
  • Friday, Dec. 8, Brimstone Museum Toy Drive for Care Help Community Christmas. For more information, call Care Help at 337-528-2273.
  • Friday, Nov. 24 until Saturday, Dec. 9, The Mines Theatre in collaboration with Kress Dance Revolution presents A Christmas Story at 6 p.m. For more information, contact The Mines at 337-215-1602.

For more information about any of the various activities and events included in "12 Days of Christmas in Sulphur," please visit www.brimstonemuseum.org, or call 337-527-0357.

Once Upon A Christmas: Dance Production:  Dec. 9-10, The Mines Theatre in collaboration with Kress Dance Revolution will take place at W.W. Lewis auditorium, 1752 Cypress Street. This show features over 60 talented dancers. The show is based on two little girls and Christmas stories read to them by their grandfather which magically come to life! Beautiful choreography makes this show an exciting event for kids of all ages and new stories added to the show make this year's production a must see! For more information, call 337-215-1602 or visit http://theminestheatre.com.

Moss Bluff

Christmas in the Bluff: Dec. 8-9, at Don Manuel Recreation Complex, 1180 Recreation Boulevard. The Moss Bluff Women's League will hold their first-ever Christmas in the Bluff! We will have a special preview on Friday night with live music. Then join us on Saturday for free family-friendly fun from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. There will be a gumbo cookoff, pictures with Santa, sweet shop, crafts, kids stations and the Miss Moss Bluff Pageant. Friday Night Preview will have special door prizes and cost $5 to get in.

Christmas Parade: The Moss Bluff Christmas Parade will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9. The Sam Houston Pride & Spirit Marching Band will be in attendance and local businesses, civic organizations, clubs, and churches are also invited to enter a float in the parade. Santa will be there too! For more information, visit www.mossbluff.webs.com.

Christmas Cram: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at Enchanted Elegance Event Center, 188 E. Telephone Road. A family day of fun and fellowship to help needy children in the SWLA region. There will be fun jumps, an obstacle course, face painting, Jingle Bells the Christmas Clown, pictures with Santa, food, entertainment and more, ALL FREE in exchange for a $10 or more unwrapped toy per family of four. For more information, call 337-794-7848.

Cookies and milk with Santa: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Sat., Dec. 16, at The Kitchen Pantry, 824 Sam Houston Jones Pkwy. Allergen-free cookies and milk will be served and families will get the chance to talk with Santa. This event is free and open to the public. For more info call 337-905-3663.

Westlake

Westlake Christmas Festival: Saturday, Dec. 9. The celebration kicks off at 2 p.m. with a parade in the heart of downtown. Candy and Christmas fare will fly through the air, and spectators will be dazzled by the Christmas spirit in Westlake. The parade, sponsored by the West Cal Kiwanis, will roll down Sampson Street. It is guaranteed to be Christmas fun for the whole family! For more information, call 337-433-0691.

Christmas Program: Dec. 19, at 7 p.m. in the board room, the Recreation Center will hold a Christmas Program that will celebrate the Christmas story.

Santa's Workshop: Dec. 20, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., featuring Santa and Mrs. Clause, in the game room.

Jennings

Christmas Festival: Saturday, Dec. 2 in Downtown Jennings. There will be food, arts and craft vendors on site to sell original works. The Christmas parade will start at 4 p.m. followed by a festive hayride. After the parade, children are invited to visit Santa and the Grinch at Founders Park. Admission is free. For more information, call 337-821-5532 or visit www.cityofjennings.com.

DeQuincy

Christmas Parade and Program: The Christmas parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1. The parade will head west from the Nichols Dept. Store followed by a Christmas program at 6:30 p.m., at McNamara Park. The program will consist of craft and food vendors, hot chocolate, music and singing. There will be fireworks at 8 p.m. at DeQuincy Ballpark. Admission is free. For more information, call 337-786-6451.

DeRidder

KCS Holiday Express: In its 17th annual trip across Kansas City Southern's (KCS) U.S. rail network, the Holiday Express train is planning to stop at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 28, in DeRidder. The six-car train will bring Santa Claus for a visit with kids and offer visual displays inside and out for young and old alike. This event is free and open to the public. Additionally, at each stop, KCS will make a donation to the local Salvation Army.

Miracle on Washington Christmas Festival: Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Lighted Christmas Parade will be at 5:30 p.m. The DeRidder Christmas Light Show will begin following the parade. There will be live music and entertainment all day. For more information and a list of scheduled events, call 337-462-8900.

Starks

Annual Starks Christmas Parade: Saturday, Dec. 2, at 2 p.m. The parade will start and end at VFW Post #4759, 4402 Highway 12. There will be a Christmas gumbo hosted by the Ladies Auxiliary following the parade at 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 337-743-6409.

Iowa

Christmas Parade and Christmas in the Park: Saturday, Dec. 9, at Lawrence Toups Park, Downtown Iowa. The Christmas parade will begin at 3 p.m., the parade will start at the VF Mall and head to Lawrence Toups Memorial Park. The Christmas in the Park event will follow after the parade. The festivities will include kid events, arts and crafts, shopping and more. For more information, call 337-309-7914 or visit www.iowala.org.

Elton

Toy Drive: The 'No Feelingzz Motorcycle Club' will host a toy drive on Saturday, Dec. 2. For more information, call Marcus Lemoine at 337-526-0616

Opelousas

Lighting of the Nativity Scene & the Oaks on the Courthouse Square: Saturday, Nov. 25, from 3-6 p.m. at St. Landry Parish Courthouse Square, 118 South Court Street, downtown Opelousas. Santa Claus will be onsite for holiday photos and there will also be a petting zoo, refreshments and choral performances of popular Christmas carols. Attendees can also stroll around the square and view the many art exhibits in storefront windows designed by student artists.

Vinton

Vinton Christmas Parade and Community Christmas in the Park!: Friday, Dec. 8. The Christmas Parade will begin at 5 p.m., near the Vinton High School and head south to the corner of Horridge Street and Highway 90, at the community Christmas Tree. At that time, the Vinton Ministerial Alliance will host Community Christmas in the Park. There will be carolling, hot dogs, cookies and hot chocolate. There will also be a Christmas Tree lighting and a table set up for citizens to decorate a Christmas ornament to remember a loved one not with us this Christmas. They will be able to take the ornament home and display it on their own Christmas Tree. Admission is free. For more information, call 337-589-7453.

Crowley

8th Annual Christmas in Crowley: Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., on Crowley's historic downtown main street, North Parkerson Avenue. An evening with family and friends, strolling down the sidewalk, enjoying the holiday sights and twinkling lights, with Christmas melodies in the air. There'll be things to see and things to do: arts and activities, stories and shopping, holiday treats and surprises, and much more, up and down the avenue. Hosted by the City of Crowley, Mayor and Board of Alderman. For more information, call City Hall at 337-783-0824, ext. 301.

Kaplan

Winter Wonderland Christmas Parade: Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. The parade will start from Rene Rost Middle School head down to 2nd Street, make a U-turn and end back at Rene Rost Middle School. For more information, call Roy at 337-800-9116 or Monique at 337-643-8602.

Send your Christmas and holiday events to news@kplctv.com.

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