The holiday season is upon us, and Opelousas Main Street presents a cherished tradition that has been lighting up downtown for over seven decades. On Saturday, the heart of downtown Opelousas, Louisiana will come alive with festive cheer at the Lighting of the Nativity on the Courthouse Square.

The event is scheduled from 3 to 6 p.m. with the official unveiling of the historic nativity scene to take place at dusk. A variety of activities are planned for the event which is presented by Opelousas Main Street, Inc. Santa will be onsite for holiday photos and there will also be train rides, a vendor market set up along Court Street featuring specialty items, art and food, live music entertainment from Our Lady Queen of Angels Choir and a special youth jam session hosted by Louisiana Folk Roots Kids Camp alumni and friends. Nearby families can meet The Grinch inside Sophisticated Look La’ Bellevue on Bellevue Street.

November 29th is also Small Business Saturday, a day to enjoy a delicious lunch and shop for unique gifts, while supporting local small businesses and artists in the area.

This year marks the 71st anniversary of the historic Nativity Scene. The nativity scene at the St. Landry Parish Courthouse Square began in the 1940s. In 1953, a special building was made for the nativity. On Sun., Dec. 6, 1953, the nativity scene on the St. Landry Parish Courthouse Square was unveiled at a special ceremony where Mabel Cools was recognized for soliciting donations used to purchase the nativity figures. Sidney Sandoz was recognized as chairman of the building committee. Robert Dejean served as Master of Ceremonies. After the unveiling, the downtown Christmas lights were turned on. (Source: Daily World, 1953).