Natchez area residents have a perfect opportunity this week and this weekend to learn more about literature, film and history.

The ongoing Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration, which kicked off Wednesday, has a little something for everyone.

Today, two women will be honored for their contributions to literature and history &045; Natchez native Josephine Ayers Haxton, who goes by the pen name Ellen Douglas, and late women’s rights pioneer Judith Sargent Murray.

On Friday, along with lectures and other presentations, attendees will celebrate the birthday of longtime Celebration supporter William Winter.

On Saturday night, Billy Bob Thornton, Clifton Taulbert and T.R. Hummer will be honored for their writing.

And on Sunday, several writers will offer their own tips of the trade at workshops.

While a few of the events are ticketed, we cannot forget that most of the lectures, presentations and exhibits at the celebration are free every year. What a wonderful opportunity to take time to expand our horizons &045; right in our own hometown.

Since its founding 14 years ago, the Literary and Cinema Celebration &045; cinema is a recent addition &045; has grown and garnered more and more attention for Natchez.

The event gives visitors a chance to experience the beauty and culture of Natchez, and it gives residents a chance to hear from and interact with scholars from across the country.

This uniquely Natchez event, which this year carries the theme &uot;Exploration and Discovery Then and Now: Saluting the Bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase,&uot; gives us all a chance to explore and discover.