By Paige Nash
Downtown Minden was the place to be this past weekend for everything merry and bright. A handful of entities put their heads together including the Greater Minden Chamber, Webster Tourism, Dorcheat Museum, City of Minden and the Minden Historic District, to bring the Christmas spirit to all who visited the brick street during this three-day event.
Although “Christmas in Minden” was originally planned to span Friday and Saturday only, the threat of severe weather postponed the annual Christmas parade and fireworks to Sunday, but that did not stop the crowds from showing up ready to celebrate.
“This weekend ended up being a true representation of Louisiana weather,” said Greater Minden Chamber President Stephanie Barnette. “Even with having to change the parade and fireworks plans, I would say it was one of the most fun Christmas in Minden weekends, yet.”
Along with the usual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Claus visits, a new addition this year featured a Holiday Wine Walk sponsored by Minden Family Dental and the Minden Foundation. Participants strolled Downtown Minden shopping, snacking, and striking up conversations with friends and acquaintances, while sipping their preferred wine choice.
Barnette said, “It was amazing to see so many people walking the downtown streets, laughing and shopping along the way. Our shoppers had so many positive things to say about the experience. We would like to thank all the businesses who participated and stayed open late.”
All the proceeds raised from this event will benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Shreveport-Bossier.
Coinciding with the events happening Downtown, Minden Medical hosted a Rehab Reindeer Run 5K through the Ridgewood neighborhood.
Another popular event Friday evening was the Holiday Trail of Lights Hayride through the Historic District where riders got to enjoy beautiful Christmas lights and caroling while learning about historic homes and landmarks.
On Saturday, families had the opportunity to visit with Santa at Easley’s Courtyard, shop with vendors and make crafts at the Dorcheat Museum. The night’s entertainment was provided by Amanda Shaw and her exquisite fiddle playing skills.
Sunday afternoon, dozens of churches, organizations, schools and businesses mobilized their decorated floats to throw candy to children lining Main Street and Broadway. A fireworks display organized by Pyromania Fireworks, LLC made for a loud and colorful ending to an eventful weekend.
According to Webster Parish Tourism Executive Director Serena Gray, the success of this weekend could not have worked so flawlessly without the collaboration of so many within the parish.
“Our community is stronger when we work together and that’s the approach that has been taken in regard to Christmas in Minden,” said Gray. “Working alongside the City of Minden, the Greater Minden Chamber, Minden Main Street, the Dorcheat Museum, Webster Parish Libraries, Minden Medical Center and numerous small business owners, has led to an amazing weekend filled with fun, family-friendly activities that create memorable experiences for locals and visitors.”
Gray is in high hopes to see continuous collaboration in the upcoming years as they continue to grow this annual event.
