• Signature Events

  • What is a Signature Event?

    Our signature events are those major events that support and uphold our organizational mission and vision. These are our main events for the year, the ones that our staff and volunteers spend considerable time and effort coordinating for the benefit of the membership. 

    Annual Awards Banquet

    Expected Attendance: 300

    The Chamber gathers business professionals, dignitaries, and community leaders annually to honor and recognize the successes of our member businesses, organizations, and individuals. Not only is this event continually the largest annual business gathering in Natchitoches, but it also serves as the Chamber’s annual meeting.

    Home and Garden Expo

    Expected Attendance: 600    Expected No. of Vendors: 75

    The Natchitoches Events Center overflows with homeowners who are looking for all things home & garden at the annual Natchitoches Home & Garden Expo. Booth space is very inexpensive, and the creativity you put into your booth is limitless. This event is family friendly, and attendance is FREE!

    NYP Pub Crawl

    Expected Attendance: 450

    One of the fastest growing festivals in Natchitoches, the annual St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl calls revilers young and old to historic downtown Natchitoches for food and drink specials at Chamber member restaurants and bars. The pub crawl and poker run culminate at the finisher’s party on the riverbank, where a live band rocks the stage into the night. Proceeds benefit the Louisiana Young Professionals Conference.

    CRAVE! Natchitoches

    Expected Attendance: 200

    CRAVE! is an annual cooking competition between Chamber members that boasts a different foodie theme every year. Teams get uber competitive to win the coveted cutting board trophy, and when teams get competitive with food, everybody wins. Located on the downtown riverbank stage, this casual networking event is a fan favorite! 

    Elite Scholars Reception

    Expected Student Attendance: 75   Expected Total Attendance: 300

    The A+ Coalition and its partners honor excellence in education each year by hosting a reception for high school seniors in Natchitoches Parish who meet certain academic criteria.

    Louisiana Young Professionals Conference

    Expected Attendance: 100

    Young Professionals from across the state gather in historic downtown Natchitoches to strengthen their leadership skills and network with other like-minded individuals. Breakout speakers offer a variety of professional development topics geared toward today’s young professional.

    New Teachers Welcome

    Typical Cohort: 50

    A+ Coalition Community Partners work together to welcome new teachers to the Natchitoches Parish School Board each August with Natchitoches area information and goodies from participating partners. We know that if they feel welcomed, supported, and informed about community resources, they are more likely to thrive.

    Light the Way 5k and Fun Run

    Expected Participation: 300

    This nighttime race is a whole new way to experience the City of Lights! Prizes are awarded to winners in each age bracket as well as those with the most Christmas spirit. Don’t be surprised if you see Santa, Frosty, or the Grinch out for a jog! Proceeds from this event benefit the A+ Coalition.

    Chamber Christmas Party

    Expected Attendance: 125

    Members gather annually for an evening of holiday cheer, local eats, and eggnog. This festive gathering is a great opportunity to network with the business community and celebrate another year together.