Good morning, Lake Charles.

Holiday Helping Hands is back in Southwest Louisiana for its fourth annual charity event (supporting local families).

Organizers say the event will offer activities and support throughout the holiday season.

Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott gave $7.1B in donations in 2025 and Louisiana nonprofits received $240M, with a key $90M gift to Forests, People, Climate.

Her support targets climate and education institutions to help drive local change.

7News toured several Christmas light displays in SWLA on Dec.

24, capturing festive scenes that highlight local decorations and community spirit. The report shows how neighborhoods are celebrating the season — a tradition that brings neighbors together.

Two Kinder residents built a 57-foot Christmas tree with 20,000 bulbs and an 8-foot star that has drawn hundreds of visitors (the display will remain until Jan.

6). They outdid last year’s 20-foot tree with this record-setting installment.

Lake Charles Little Theatre, the region’s oldest arts organization, will build a new theatre at its longtime downtown site at 813 Enterprise Blvd to mark its 100th anniversary.

Demolition began Wednesday due to Hurricane Laura damage + plans for the new facility will be shared in 2026.

Pastor Jay Lawson of Open Door Biker Church urges families to reflect on Christmas today by focusing on its true meaning of love and service and sharing good tidings that echo timeless scripture.

The Southwest Louisiana O Gauge Model Railroad Club 2025 Exhibit is on display at the Calcasieu Parish Library in Sulphur this holiday season, featuring a new ESSO oil refinery model and Christmas train; visitors can view the display (noon–5 p.m. Saturday, 1–6 p.m. on Jan.

2, and noon–5 p.m. on Jan. 3).

McNeese State will return to Crisler Arena Monday to face a No. 2 Michigan team, two years after the Cowboys stunned fans with an 87-76 upset that launched their mid-major rise.

The victory validated coach Will Wade’s hiring and boosted team confidence.

Winter Wonderland Skate Night

Winter Wonderland Skate Night — Evening — Lake Charles Event Center — Check local listings for entry fees — Celebrate the holiday season with festive skating fun at this special event.