It’s that time, again! It’s time for everyone to get out your Christmas decorations, check out your lights, and get ready for the holidays. The city’s elves are in the process of hanging lights, garland and wreaths in time for Saturday, Nov. 30, the opening day for Christmas in Natchez. So many fun activities are in store for this season.

First, the annual “Lighting of the Christmas Tree” celebration will take place on Saturday, Nov. 30, with Santa, many fun rides and activities for the children and food vendors all beginning at 4 p.m.

Excerpts from the Nutcracker will be performed by Natchez Ballet at 6 p.m., caroling and lighting of the tree will be from 6:15-6:30 p.m. Visit the “Christmas in Natchez” Facebook page, or go to VisitNatchez.org, to find more about all the details. Come meet your friends and bring your families to get in the holiday spirit.

Next, mark your calendar for the Christmas parade, Saturday, Dec 7, at 6 p.m. If you would like to participate, and we hope you do, you can find the information/application on ListenUpYall.com or Christmas In Natchez Facebook page. The theme this year is “Christmas Magic” and line-up begins at 4:30 p.m. on Broadway. Get creative and make this a parade to remember.

Caroling in Memorial Park will be the event to put you in the holiday spirit. Friday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m. “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” will be our theme as bands and choirs from all over our area demonstrate the spirit of the season through jubilant song. Please come join other guests as they lead us in Christmas caroling and remind us of the true meaning of Christmas.

We want you and our shops/restaurants to get in the spirit too. Since our theme is “Christmas Magic,” we ask you to have lights, not only on the outside of buildings but also outlining your windows. Get merry and bright! Check out several businesses on Main, Franklin and Commerce, who have their buildings already for the Christmas Season.

Also, be sure to check out some new lights on the Bluff this season provided by Melinda and Fred Kent and Magnolia Bluff Casino. If you need some help with finding lights for your building or need someone to help you with that project, you can contact Melinda Kent at melindakent@icloud.com.

Candlelight dinners, a Christmas Cabaret, choirs singing, a Library tour, a Christmas Tea, Homemade Holiday art, tours of a “Jeweled Christmas at the Towers,” a Holiday Half-Marathon, and A Blue Christmas with Elvis, are just a few of the events that will complete the holiday package.

Just check the schedule of events to be sure you don’t miss out!

It’s going to be a wonderful season. Come join the fun! And as always…Think Natchez first and stay local!

Patricia Lozon is co-chairman of Christmas In Natchez.