Gather for a jazzy evening of holiday music from 4 to 6 p.m. this Sunday at Nellie Lutcher Memorial Park, 702 Enterprise Blvd.

The “Nellie Lutcher Christmas Carol Extraordinaire” is the next installment of Music in the Park — an initiative to regularly fill the park, which opened just over a year ago, to honor local musical icon Nellie Lutcher — with music.

Mayor Nic Hunter said this is a way to institute unique programming that celebrates “one of Lake Charles’ favorite daughters.”

“From Nellie Fest in April to now our third installment of Music in the Park, we think Nellie would be proud to see residents coming from near and far to listen to live jazz music and enjoy a taste of Southwest Louisiana in the neighborhood she was born and raised in.”

Lake Charles Director of Cultural Affairs Payton Dodds called Lake Charles’ mission to commemorate Lutcher a point of pride for Southwest Louisiana’s community and heritage.

“Nellie Lutcher’s legacy is a cornerstone of our community’s rich cultural heritage. She was a groundbreaking jazz and R&B artist whose music brought people together and broke barriers,” she said. “Honoring her keeps her story alive, reminding us of the importance of creativity, resilience and the rich culture she helped shape.”

This edition of Music in the Park has a two-fold mission: honor Lutcher through music and community and ensure every citizen has access to holiday cheer.

Dodds said free holiday events bring folks together in a way that creates “joyful memories that strengthen community bonds.”

“They ensure everyone has access to festive activities, regardless of background or circumstance, and reinforce the importance of inclusivity and togetherness during the holidays.”

The city has teamed up with the Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center and Upscale Productions to host the event. Dodds said the Christmas Carol Extraordinaire is a celebration of “tradition and community artistry” featuring classic holiday songs and performances from local musicians.

The Street Side Jazz Band will perform from 4 to 5 p.m. and Jairus Daigle will perform from 5 to 6 p.m.

Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs for maximum comfort and joy.

The Original Taste of New Orleans food truck will parked at the park to offer Cajun/Creole food and beverages.