December is almost here, and with it comes a whole lot of cozy events, festive lights, and all the small-town charm that makes our corner of Louisiana shine this time of year. Whether you’re looking for family fun, holiday shopping, hometown traditions, or a reason to get out and enjoy the season, Red River Parish and our neighboring communities have something for everyone. Grab your calendar—and maybe some hot cocoa—because December is packed with can’t-miss happenings!

Events in Red River Parish
The CPKC Holiday Train will make a stop on Front Street in Coushatta Wednesday, December 3 from 8:15-8:45pm. The stop will feature a performance by Dylan Marlowe and Emily Ann Roberts.

The Coushatta-Red River Chamber of Commerce presents the Christmas Comedy Christmas Festival Thursday, December 4. Parade rolls at 4:30pm; Santa & Mrs. Claus 5:15-7; Fireworks at 6pm.

Fairview Baptist Church will host a Ladies Christmas Paint Party December 5 from 6-9pm. Registration is required. Deadline to sign up is Nov 30. Cost $25. Bring a favorite finger food to share.

The Coushatta-Red River Chamber of Commerce will host a Christmas Market Saturday, December 13 at the Fairgrounds Livestock Barn.

Events surrounding areas:

Lumiere, an immersive Christmas Experience, is open November 21 – December 31. Open most nights 5-10pm. Check the schedule on their website (christmasatlumiere.com).

The Town of Zwolle Christmas Festival is December 5-6. The parade rolls on Sat Dec 6.

The 10th annual Stonewall Christmas Parade is set for Saturday, December 6 at 6pm.

The 25th Annual Benton Christmas on the Square Festival will be held Saturday, December 6 from 10am to 5pm. The Benton Rotary Club Parade rolls at 3pm.

The 2nd Annual String Quartet Christmas performed by the Armonia String Quartet is Sunday, December 7 at 3pm at Christ Memorial Episcopal Church in Mansfield. Reception immediately following.

The annual CHS Reindeer Run is Thursday, December 11. 

The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales are returning to Marshall for Wonderland of Lights 2025. These iconic horses will make a full hitch appearance Thursday, December 11 from 6-8pm in front of the Historic 1901 Harrison County Courthouse. Public viewing from Dec 8-12 from 7am until 7pm. 

“A Hometown Christmas” presented by Gibsland Bank & Trust will be celebrated in Minden December 12-14.

The City of Mansfield Christmas Parade is Saturday, December 13 at 2pm.

The NW Region Red River Research Station will host Christmas at the Farm Saturday, December 13 at 5pm. Bring your blankets and chairs to watch an outdoor classic Christmas movie while enjoying popcorn and hot chocolate. Enjoy educational segments presented by our extension agents and let the kids have fun with activities including a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Enjoy a ride on the Red River Express and Sing along with your favorite Christmas songs and carols.

The Many Christmas Parade and Festival is Saturday, December 13.

Rockets over the Red has been rescheduled to December 20.

Downtown Minden will host a Community-wide Live Nativity Saturday, December 20 from 6-8pm. Tour Route: Begin at 1111 Broadway St., continue to St. John’s Episcopal Church, journey up Lewisville Rd. past Minden Presbyterian Church, and conclude at First Methodist Minden Church. This is a walking tour that takes approximately 30–45 minutes to complete. Churches along the route will be open for viewing and breaks. Golf carts will be available for guests with mobility challenges or handicaps. This event is free and open to the public.