Shreveport Welcomes the Holiday Season with Open Arms!
Shreveport, La. – Winter is coming, folks, and it seems that the holiday spirit has already made itself at home in the ArkLaTex as we dive right into the bustling season of events! Whether you’re that eager beaver who starts decorating right after Halloween or someone who prefers to hold off until after Thanksgiving, there’s incredible holiday cheer awaiting you in our vibrant corner of Louisiana.
Kickoff Festivities to Behold
Recently, Visit Shreveport-Bossier kicked off the holiday season with great flair through exciting initiatives like Holidays on the Red and the Holiday Trail of Lights. These events offer a preview of some fabulous ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in our area. From festive light displays to winter wonders, it’s becoming clearer: North Louisiana has fully embraced the holiday spirit.
Stacy Brown, President of Visit Shreveport-Bossier, shared her enthusiasm while teasing residents and visitors alike with a glimpse of the holiday fun still to come. “In downtown Shreveport, you’ll see some great activities like Believe at the Shreveport Aquarium or Snoport at Sci-Port Discovery Center. And don’t miss the Rockets Over the Red event the Saturday after Thanksgiving – they’re debuting a thrilling new drone show!”
Boosting Local Businesses
Brown noted that typically, November and December can be slow months for the hospitality industry. However, this year, due to a heap of engaging events, there’s been an impressive boost to the local economy. “By collaborating with our partners at the Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights, we’ve managed to change that narrative a little,” she explained. “More folks are traveling from other regions to join in our wonderful festivities, which not only enhances the holiday spirit but also provides great economic benefit to our community.”
The Magic of the Holiday Trail
The Holiday Trail of Lights stretches across North and Central Louisiana, enabling festive outings for everyone. You can either hop over to Monroe or stick around for the delightful celebrations right here in DeSoto Parish. “We focus on small town parades and local shopping and dining in our charming communities,” said Charlotte Knotek, Executive Director of DeSoto Parish Tourism. “Each community has its own unique celebration to offer!”
A Bright New Attraction
Mark your calendars! A brand-new light park dubbed Lumiere is set to open its doors this month in Stonewall. Imagine a sprawling 32-acre wonderland boasting a jaw-dropping 72-foot Christmas tree, an exhilarating 250-foot synthetic snow slide for tubing fun, and stunning light displays. Lumiere is shaping up to be an immersive experience not to miss!
Festivities Galore!
As we inch closer to the end of November and beyond, there are a plethora of holiday events planned to get everyone into the festive mood:
- Marvel at world-class ballet performances filled with acrobatics and dazzling sets.
- Shop for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts while Santa awaits at the Shreveport Convention Center.
- Enjoy thousands of twinkling lights and delightful treats on a miniature Christmas train.
- Experience holiday magic with Santa, indulge in Christmas delicacies, and catch a glimpse of the Snow Mermaid.
- Take part in a charming small-town parade that encapsulates the very spirit of the season.
- Delight in a vibrant fireworks display alongside live music, arts and crafts, and a chance to meet Santa!
- Support local craftsmen, savor festive foods, and soak in the blissful holiday tunes.
- Join in on local parades and concerts that vibe around the hustle and bustle of the Independence Bowl weekend festivities.
Your Guide to a Merry Season
If you’re eager to learn more about all the merry and bright happenings around North Louisiana, be sure to check out the resources at Visit Shreveport-Bossier or the Holiday Trail of Lights. With breathtaking lights and endless celebrations, this holiday season is bound to be one for the books!
