Christmas in Natchez certainly brings out the holly, the jolly and the merriest in people. This past 2011 season was no exception. None of us had to look very far to see the season’s decorations that were evidence of a fun-loving and playful spirit shared by so many this very special place we call home.

People in search of bright lights, extraordinary food and holiday delight came from near and far to visit Natchez throughout the weeks following Thanksgiving.

From the Turkey Trot to the gumbo cook-off, from the tree lighting to the parade, from the fireworks to the ice skating, from the animals in Memorial Park to the tours of Longwood, Magnolia Hall, Auburn and The Towers, from the stories at the library and on and on . . . our holidays were packed with snacks, shopping, caroling and lots of lights!

Thanks to the tireless volunteers, Natchez was truly a sight to behold and an adventure to experience.

Now, it’s easy to see that some of us are more skilled than others at decorating our homes and our neighborhoods. So this year the Natchez lights committee decided to launch a little friendly competition!

Sixteen homes were chosen by a panel of totally impartial judges to receive the first North Pole awards! Based on their overall holiday appeal, these displays and their creators were surprised with peppermint lollipops and North Pole awards in their yards!

And the winners were:

• Keyhole House — 1016 Main St.

• 101 Mansfield St.

• 500 Commerce St. — Bienville Apartments

• Cotton Alley Restaurant

• 105 Overton Road

• 208 South Canal St.

• The Towers — 801 Myrtle Ave.

• 575 State St.

• 86 Providence Road

• 91 Providence Road

• 513 North Union St.

• 604 North Union St.

• 1850 Madison St.

• 30 New St.

• 19 Homochitto St.

• 26 Homochitto St.

Many thanks to all the volunteers who created the kickoff of the North Pole award: Vicki Eastland, Melanie Trippe, Barbara Nell Lomasney and others!

For all the rest of us who were not singled out for our amazing fantasies of lights, the challenge for next year is on! It’s not too early to start planning and purchasing! You may be one of the ones to receive the amazingly distinctive and highly coveted North Pole award! Merry Christmas 2012!

 

Ruth Nichols is a member of the Christmas in Natchez committee.