Downtown Alexandria is the focal point of holiday spirit this weekend in Rapides Parish with the Alex Winter Fete. There is no shortage of arts and craft vendors for holiday shopping, a gumbo cook-off, and Interim Director of Community Services TJ Nash, Sr. says for those feeling they need to burn holiday calories, an ugly sweater 5k.
“Really it is a time for fun and enjoyment for the citizens who want to get up that early in the morning and run in their shorts and ugly sweaters,” said Nash.
Nash says several popular attractions are returning this year adding visitors are coming from as far away as the North Pole for the festivities.
“Our ice skating has been a family favorite for a number of years. We’ve got Santa’s village where we will have Santa out there for our youngsters,” said Nash.
Nash says no Louisiana celebration would be complete without live music and a parade.
“We will have entertainment on Friday night and Saturday night. In addition, on Sunday we’ve got our Alexadria Christmas parade starting at approximately 2pm,” said Nash.
Festivities kick off today and run through Sunday. More details can be found at alexwinterfete.com.