NATCHEZ — The U.S. Senate has officially designated 2016 as the Natchez Tricentennial.

The Senate passed a resolution last week introduced by Republican Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Thad Cochran recognizing the 300th anniversary and historical significance of Natchez.

The measure designated this year as the Natchez Tricentennial.

“Natchez’s history runs deep,” Wicker said in a statement. “Given its strategic location along the Mississippi River, the city has played a significant role in our state’s economy for hundreds of years. It is an honor to memorialize this rare celebration of Natchez’s remarkable heritage.”

Cochran called Natchez a “historic treasure.”

“This resolution honors the city’s long history and celebrates its past and future,” Cochran said in a statement. “I’m pleased that the Senate is commemorating the Natchez Tricentennial and its continued influence on the culture of Mississippi and our nation.”

The resolution noted the history of Natchez and annual events, such as the Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration and Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, and their contributions to cultural life and historical understand of Mississippi.

Natchez Interim Tourism Director and Tricentennial Director Jennifer Ogden Combs said the city is honored and grateful the Senate recognized the Tricentennial celebration.

“Our committee members, volunteers, current and former residents have worked tirelessly to make 2016’s commemorations and celebrations all that Natchez deserves during its 300th birthday,” Combs said.

Natchez began its yearlong celebration of the Natchez Tricentennial at the beginning of the year.

The city’s official birthday — Aug. 3, 1716 — will be celebrated with an all-day celebration Aug. 3.

The celebration will include educational activities, the dedication of the Fort Rosalie site by the National Park Service and an evening street party along the bluff.

For more information about the birthday party and other Tricentennial events throughout the year, visit natchezms300.com.