Louisiana City of Plaquemine Targets Tourists with Dazzling Christmas Light Displays, Get the Details Here

Published on December 23, 2025

Plaquemine, a picturesque city in Iberville Parish, Louisiana, may soon become one of the popular holiday light spots. Launched by the local nonprofit group, We Are the Difference, the ‘Merry Way’ project is an effort to develop the city as one of the favorite holiday spots. Since an increasing number of cities in the region are already preparing their holiday light shows for visitors, Plaquemine is soon going to develop its own tradition and promote tourism in the city by displaying beautifully illuminated Christmas trees.

Recently, Terri Witt, chairwoman of the Merry Way project, addressed the Iberville Parish Council on her vision for the future. Her aim is to make Plaquemine City even more attractive for tourists wanting to experience a holiday event and expand on what has already been done at Plaquemine City Hall by making it the place for people from all around to come and enjoy their holiday lights display.

A Growing Tradition at Plaquemine City Hall

The Merry Way project’s first visible success came in the form of several Christmas trees strategically placed in front of Plaquemine City Hall. These trees, each brightly adorned with lights, are part of a broader effort to bring holiday cheer to the city’s residents and visitors alike. Witt believes that this is just the beginning and envisions an expanded display that would stretch throughout the city, showcasing hundreds of illuminated trees, light displays, and festive decorations.

Witt’s vision isn’t just about creating a beautiful display—it’s also about creating a long-term tourism asset for the community. The success of similar initiatives in other Louisiana cities and neighboring states has shown that holiday lights can bring an influx of visitors, boost local businesses, and foster community pride. Witt believes that Plaquemine has the potential to become the next major holiday light destination, offering something unique to travelers and families looking for a memorable Christmas experience.

Plaquemine’s Potential to Become a Christmas Lights Destination

Plaquemine is no stranger to community events and celebrations. However, the idea of becoming a premier holiday light destination is relatively new. Witt pointed to nearby cities like Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Laurel, Mississippi, all of which have seen significant success with their own holiday light displays. These cities have transformed their Christmas traditions into powerful tourism magnets, drawing visitors from far and wide.

For example, Bluebonnet in Baton Rouge, City Park in New Orleans, and Laurel have gained regional fame for their holiday displays, attracting thousands of visitors annually. In fact, these destinations have become synonymous with the holiday season, bringing in tourists from neighboring states and providing a major boost to the local economies. The holiday season’s popularity has helped these cities see increased tourism revenue, growth in hospitality services, and heightened interest from businesses.

Plaquemine’s unique charm, combined with its proximity to these successful cities, gives it a strategic advantage. Witt believes that the city could offer a distinctive holiday experience that sets it apart from other light festivals in the region. With its scenic streets, local businesses, and the community’s spirit, Plaquemine has the potential to cultivate its own signature holiday event that will keep visitors coming back year after year.

Tourism Impact: Boosting Local Businesses and Bringing in Visitors

If the Merry Way project takes off, Plaquemine could experience a surge in tourism. Holiday light displays are known for attracting not only local residents but also visitors from surrounding areas and neighboring states. The economic impact of such initiatives cannot be understated—tourists who come to enjoy the lights often spend money on dining, lodging, shopping, and other local attractions, providing a significant boost to the local economy.

Cities like Gonzales, Natchitoches, and Denham Springs in Louisiana have seen firsthand the power of Christmas lights to transform the local economy. These cities have seen an influx of tourists who travel specifically to experience the holiday displays. According to reports, Natchitoches alone, which is known for its Christmas Festival of Lights, sees tens of thousands of visitors each year, generating millions in revenue for the local community. Gonzales and Denham Springs have reported similar successes, with hotels, restaurants, and shops seeing increased business during the holiday season.

In Plaquemine, local businesses stand to benefit from the increase in foot traffic. Shops, restaurants, and hotels would likely see a boost in sales as more visitors come to the city to experience the lights. The influx of tourists could also create new opportunities for businesses, especially those that cater to holiday shoppers, such as gift shops, craft stores, and eateries offering seasonal specialties.

Community Involvement and Sponsorship Opportunities

Witt has stressed the importance of community involvement in making the Merry Way project a success. She believes that Plaquemine’s holiday lights initiative should be something that everyone in the community can take pride in. The project is open to sponsorships from local businesses, church groups, and individuals who want to support the vision of turning Plaquemine into a festive holiday destination. Witt is encouraging local stakeholders to get involved and contribute to the cause, whether through donations, sponsorships, or volunteering their time.

Local residents and businesses have the opportunity to become part of a community-driven effort that could bring lasting change to the city. Witt hopes that the Merry Way project will foster a sense of togetherness and pride, as it would not only beautify the city but also help promote local culture and traditions to a wider audience. The project could be a source of pride for the people of Plaquemine, showcasing their commitment to community engagement and their hospitality toward visitors.

Looking Toward the Future: Expanding the Lights Tradition

If the Merry Way project continues to grow, Witt envisions a future where Plaquemine’s Christmas lights become an annual event that draws tourists from all over the region. With proper funding, community support, and a strategic marketing plan, Plaquemine could establish itself as a major holiday destination, similar to other successful cities that have embraced the Christmas lights tradition.

The potential for growth is significant. As Plaquemine continues to develop its identity as a city for tourists, the Merry Way project could be a cornerstone in creating a lasting holiday tradition that celebrates the warmth and charm of Louisiana. By investing in tourism, community involvement, and local businesses, Plaquemine has the opportunity to create a destination that will attract both visitors and locals for years to come.

Plaquemine’s Bright Future as a Holiday Lights Destination

Plaquemine can definitely become a colorful holiday lights tourist destination that can attract visitors and generate revenue for the local economy. With the aid of the local community and sponsors, the Merry Way project can become a significant holiday tourist destination that can provide visitors with a unique holiday experience that is characteristic of Louisiana. As is the experience of other holiday tourist destinations in the area, Plaquemine can become a hub of joy and economic prosperity as a result of the influence of holiday lights on the local community. The future of Plaquemine as a holiday lights tourist destination is looking bright indeed!