NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA - Older than New Orleans, Natchitoches has preserved its charm and history, from brickpaved streets along the banks of the Cane River, its double-galleried, wrought-iron-trimmed storefronts to its mix of Queen Anne, Italianate, Spanish Revival, Federal and Victorian architecture. This picture-perfect town is home to one of the oldest community-based holiday celebrations in the country.