Believe it or not, there is a group of Natchezians that have already planned most of the 2009 Christmas season and activities.

Yes, this year the Christmas In Natchez: City of Lights Committee is planning to light up the downtown area from the day after Thanksgiving, Nov. 27 until Jan. 3.

Imagine the skyline if all the beautiful historic downtown buildings were all lit with tiny white lights and the streets were lined with beautiful Christmas wreaths with sprawling garland. Imagine the magnificent Christmas Tree with lights and ornaments, yes beautiful ornaments, as well as the bluff being lit and decorated. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it?

Since February, efforts have been under way to make these dreams possible. Twenty new wreaths and six garland strings have already been purchased and delivered. A brochure listing many events that will take place for all ages has been created and distributed to let everyone know about this grand occasion. Downtown merchants and business owners have met to discuss lighting their buildings and plan downtown activities.

Having our downtown lit will not only be magical but the long-term benefits are unlimited. Christmas decorations and lights can be enjoyed by all age groups — the old and the young — and all economic statuses and all denominations. However, when visitors come to view lights and visit our restaurants, shops, and hotels, they spend money which benefits everyone in our community.

Tourism is a major industry, and having the downtown “lit up” will bring more people.

So how can you help? First of all, a donation will be greatly appreciated. The Natchez Chamber of Commerce Tourism Council and the Christmas In Natchez Committee will continue a long tradition of taking donations in the street at the site of the Christmas Tree, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. today. You can bring your change, or bring a check and make a memorial however you wish.

By working together as a group of private citizens to make our holidays “sparkle” in Natchez, we can make a huge impression, not only to get others to visit our city, but by lighting the hearts of our community as well.

Please join the fun by supporting this project with your money as well as your ideas.

René Adams is the co-chairman of the Natchez Tourism Council.