Natchez has celebrated the lighting of its Christmas Tree for many years. The tradition started with a real tree anchored in the center of downtown Natchez at the intersection of Main and Commerce Streets. Through the years, the tree has been transitioned into a “forever tree”, and in 2018, Taco Bell donated the grand 34’ tree that we use today. We kick off the holiday season with the Lighting of the Tree that occurs on the Saturday immediately following Thanksgiving each year.
The festivities bring a crowd of several hundred people, where the streets are blocked off and the heart of downtown becomes a street party that ends with the lighting of the tree. Festivities include: the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus and their friends who welcome children for pictures inside the Home Bank, a North Pole Playground with rides and fun activities for the kids and food vendors lining the streets. We end the night with the official countdown to the tree lighting, which takes place with pyrotechnics synchronized to Christmas carols. It’s a truly magical event.
The Lighting of the Tree this year will be held on Saturday, November 26th. Bring the whole family and enjoy kid’s rides while shopping with select local vendors.
The tree lighting will occur at 6:30pm.
