Christmas in Minden: Where Small Town Magic Comes Alive

PHOTO CREDIT: VISIT WEBSTER PARISH

If you’re looking for a small-town Christmas full of warmth, charm, and that cozy “Hallmark movie” feel, then look no further than Minden, Louisiana. This year’s Christmas in Minden promises to light up downtown with holiday magic from December 12–14, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome you for a weekend of holiday cheer.

Friday, December 12 – Kickoff with Wine & Merriment

The festivities begin on Friday evening with the Holiday Wine Walk (5pm – 9pm). For $30, participants receive a special event wine glass, a map of 15+ downtown stops that are staying open, and the chance to sample at least eight wines while enjoying snacks, holiday music, and downtown shopping. It’s the perfect way to ease into the season. Tickets can be purchased here 

That evening, don’t miss the city’s Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5.30pm at the Civic Center, followed by a tractor-pulled Holiday Trail of Lights Hayride through the Historic District (6pm  – 9pm), complete with Christmas lights, caroling, and festive charm. 

PHOTO CREDIT: GREATER MINDEN CHAMBER

Saturday, December 13 – Brunch, Shopping & the Big Parade

Start the day with a cozy Festive Christmas Brunch at Geaux Fresh (9am – 1pm). This is a delicious way to fuel up before a day of holiday fun. 

The Presents on Pearl Market will be open 11am – 6pm, giving you plenty of time to pick up handmade gifts, festive trinkets, or special keepsakes from the festive marketplace. Drop by Purvéy Minden for some unique vintage clothing and other fun finds! If you are staying with at The Villas at Spanish Court, you get an additional 10% off your purchase

PHOTO CREDIT: SARA MCDANIEL

As evening falls, the heart of Minden’s holiday spirit comes alive with the Minden Christmas Parade, rolling downtown from 5pm. This year’s theme is “A Hometown Christmas,” inviting floats, marching groups and bands, all decked out with lights, music, and nostalgic hometown charm. It’s the kind of parade that makes you believe in holiday magic. More information can be found here

Following the parade, head over to the Civic Center at 6.30pm for the parade awards, a perfect time to toast the community spirit. 

PHOTO CREDIT: GREATER MINDEN CHAMBER

Sunday, December 14  – Tour of Homes & Community Warmth

On Sunday, wrap up your visit with the Christmas Tour of Homes (1pm – 6pm), where beautifully decorated historic homes, including the celebrated Fuller-White House, open their doors for a warm, festive look into holiday traditions and Southern charm. 

PHOTO CREDIT: SARA MCDANIEL

This cozy tour offers a chance to appreciate Minden’s heritage through elegant architecture, twinkling lights, and the spirit of community that defines the season. More information about the tour can be found here. 

And for those who want to linger a little longer on Saturday, December 20, there’s a heartwarming Christmas Live Nativity at 6pm in Minden’s Historic District. It is free to attend and a beautiful way to reflect on the meaning of the season with candlelight, carols, and community spirit. More information can be found here.

PHOTO CREDIT: FIRST METHODIST CHURCH MINDEN

Why Visit Minden This Holiday Season?

From the sparkle of downtown lights to the inviting atmosphere of local shops, Minden offers that small-town warmth and genuine holiday spirit that’s rare these days. The mix of festive events, from wine tastings and homemade markets to historic home tours and live nativity celebrations, makes it perfect for couples, families, friends, or anyone craving a nostalgic, magical Christmas getaway.

Whether you come for the parade floats, the handcrafted gifts, the hayrides, or just the joy of strolling downtown at dusk with a mug of hot cocoa in hand, Minden delivers holiday charm that feels like a real-life storybook.

Ready to make your holiday plans? Book your stay today at MindenStays.com, cozy homes, Southern hospitality, and the perfect base for a Christmas you’ll remember.