Christmas Season Events

Santa’s Workshop, St. Alphonsus’s Rateau Center, Hessmer

Date: Nov. 29
The Christmas season kicks off in lively style at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 3659 Main St., Hessmer, as Santa’s Workshop returns to the Rateau Center on Saturday, Nov. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Children ages 3–12 are invited to enjoy an evening filled with festive activities, treats and holiday cheer. Young guests are encouraged to wear their pajamas and take part in crafts, games, snacks and photos with Santa himself.
The cost is $25 per child, with a $20 sibling rate after the first child. All proceeds from the event will benefit St. Alphonsus’s Vacation Bible School program, helping fund future faith-filled summer activities for local children.
For more information or to register, call 318-542-6098 or 318-563-8234.

2025 CPKC Holiday Train, Simmesport

Date: Dec. 3
The magic of the holidays is coming down the tracks to Simmesport as the 2025 CPKC Holiday Train makes its Avoyelles Parish stop on Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m.
The train will roll into the N. Live Oak Railroad Crossing, field next to Piggly Wiggly, to deliver a free outdoor concert, holiday cheer and a spirit of giving.
The CPKC Holiday Train features professional musicians performing from a stage built right into the decorated railcars. At each stop, the railway company presents a donation to the local food bank and invites the community to bring monetary or heart-healthy food donations to help families in need.
Organizers encourage everyone to come early, bring cameras, and enjoy the festive atmosphere complete with lights, music, and a chance to give back.
Community partners making the stop possible include: - Simmesport RISE
- CENLA Food Bank
- Riverside Elem.
- Avoyelles Parish Schools
- Avoyelles High School
- Atchafalaya Chamber of Commerce
- Town of Simmesport & Alderman
- Avoyelles Parish Tourist Commission
- Simmesport Historical Society

ACOA Christmas Wonderland Senior Health & Fun Day, Marksville

Date: Dec. 4
The Avoyelles Council on Aging will hold its annual Christmas Wonderland Senior Health & Fun Day on Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Mansura Pavilion.
Doors will open at 9 a.m. with a variety of health vendors on-site, offering information, screenings and resources to help seniors stay healthy and active.
The day’s schedule includes: - Bingo at 9:30 a.m.
- Lunch at 11:30 a.m.

The celebration continues as Santa Claus arrives at noon with a special guest. At 1 p.m., attendees can take to the dance floor with Uncle Paul and Bayou Blues, performing live music sure to keep spirits bright.
Afternoon activities include refreshments and door prizes at 2:30 p.m. and the announcement of a Grand Door Prize at 3:30 p.m.
Tickets are $5 per person and cover the full day of activities, including lunch, entertainment and giveaways. Tickets must be purchased in advance by Dec. 1, no tickets will be sold at the door.
Tickets are available at any Avoyelles Parish Senior Center or at the ACOA office, 224 South Preston Street in Marksville. Call 318-253-9771.

Christmas Tree Lighting & Visit with Santa, Bunkie Chamber

Date: Dec. 5
The Bunkie Chamber of Commerce will hold their Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Visit with Santa on Friday, Dec. 5 at The Depot in downtown Bunkie at 5:30 p.m.
The event will mark the official start of the holiday season in Bunkie, featuring the lighting of the city Christmas tree, festive decorations and a special visit from Santa Claus for children and families to enjoy.
In addition to the tree lighting festivities, the Chamber will also recognize and honor the Bunkie High School Football Panthers and Coaching Staff for their outstanding season and community spirit.
Organizers encourage the public to attend this family-friendly event and help celebrate the joy of the season together in downtown Bunkie.
For more information or to register call 318-346-2575.