Holiday Festivities in Ruston

There’s just something magical about Christmas in Ruston. With beautifully decorated downtown shops, streets lined with twinkling lights, and holiday cheer in the air, Ruston elicits all those cozy feelings of being home for the holidays. With so many festivities happening this season, we wanted to bring you a quick look at all the ways to celebrate the holidays with your friends and family in Ruston & Lincoln Parish.

Downtown Holiday Open House – November 4

Head to Downtown Ruston as local shops kick off the holiday shopping season. Enjoy refreshments, special promotions, and extended hours from participating businesses. Ruston’s walkable downtown makes Christmas shopping painless and fun – plus you’re sure to find something unique in one of the charming local storefronts.

Kickoff to Christmas – November 27

This annual event is a favorite for its tree-lighting ceremony complete with a giant light switch that gets flipped by the Mayor to light up downtown. The night also features holiday craft activities, music, carriage rides, and a special visit from Santa! In addition, patrons can enjoy extended shopping hours and local dining in charming Downtown Ruston.

Downtown Carriage Rides – November 27 - December 18Enjoy magical carriage rides through the decorated streets of Downtown Ruston! Carriage rides will begin at Kickoff to Christmas and are available every Friday and Saturday from Nov. 27-Dec. 18. This is a fun and memorable activity the entire family can enjoy this holiday season.

Lincoln Lights Up the Pines – December 2-4Pack up the whole family in the car and come experience Ruston's only drive-thru Christmas light display at the beautiful Lincoln Parish Park. With tons of twinkling lights, holiday scenes, and festive decor, everyone is sure to enjoy the holiday cheer of Lincoln Lights Up the Pines from the comfort (and warmth) of their vehicle!

RCT Presents "A Christmas Carol" – December 2-5

Ruston Community Theatre is famous for its annual holiday productions. This year, they are bringing the classic "A Christmas Carol" to the Dixie Center for the Arts stage for four spectacular performances. For showtimes and tickers, click here.

NCLAC’s Holiday Arts Market – December 4

If you love to find artistic and one-of-a-kind pieces to give as gifts, be sure to check out North Central Louisiana Arts Council’s Holiday Arts Market. NCLAC is taking over The Norton Building with your favorite local artists in an open-air market. Come do your holiday shopping all in one place with curated, giftable handmade items.

Big Creek Trade Days – December 10-12

If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for items like handmade jewelry, accessories, furniture, antiques, outdoor items and more, then Big Creek Trade Days is your place. Big Creek’s December show is bigger and better than ever with hundreds of vendors ready to help you knock out your shopping list.

Ruston Christmas Parade – December 11

A community favorite, the Annual Ruston Christmas Parade will bring the holiday spirit to life on Saturday, December 11 at 6pm. You won't want to miss festive floats and family fun in Ruston's magical downtown district.

Cookies with Santa – December 18

Kick off Christmas break with cookie decorating and a visit from Santa! Santa will be available for Christmas wishes and photos while Downtown Ruston brings out the cookie decorating station and hot chocolate. Don't forget to snag those last few gifts from local boutiques and shops in Downtown Ruston.

For more information on these and other holiday events in the area, visit www.rustonlincoln.com/holidays. Planning a trip? Download or request our Visitors Guide or check out our itineraries!