"Experience the charm of Louisiana's original French colony during the 54th Annual Fall Pilgrimage on Oct. 9-11. The tour, presented by the Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches, showcases national historic homes and plantations; some of these sites are not normally open to the public. The Candlelight Tour is Friday, Oct. 9 from 7-9:30 p.m. featuring the Jefferson Street Townhouse, Steel Magnolia House and Scott House. Guests can visit the homes in any sequence, but make the Steel Magnolia House the last stop for wine, cheese and music. * The Town Tour is Saturday, Oct. 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features the Chaplin House, Soldini House, Cunningham Cottage and Secret Garden. A special presentation featuring the Flags of Natchitoches will be displayed at the Soldini House. The Cane River Country Tour is Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 10-11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This tour includes Melrose Plantation, Oakland Plantation, Cherokee Plantation and Lambre's Gin Plantation Home. While in the Cane River National Heritage Area, visitors can join the celebration at the St. Augustine Annual Catholic Church Fair held across from Melrose Plantation. Known for their unique Creole culture and cuisine, the festivities feature great food, games, music and a jaunt through historic Cane River. The St. Augustine Catholic Church was also the site of the wedding scene in "Steel Magnolias." Advance tickets are $15 per person for an individual tour, $28 per person for a two-tour package and $38 per person for a three-tour package. Advance ticket sales end Oct. 8. For children ages 6-12, tickets are an additional $5 per tour. Ages 6 and under are free. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets may be purchased at the Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau located at 781 Front Street." - Jeff Guin from Bookmarklet