Adding ambiance to Vicksburg’s City Front is one way members of three local tourism groups are hoping to lure people to Vicksburg – and keep them coming back.

&#8220It’s a return to hospitality – served up individually,” said Larry Gawronski, director here for Compass Facility Management.

Wednesday was the first time in about 10 years that the Vicksburg Convention & Visitors Bureau has had a welcoming committee stationed at City Front, said VCVB group tour coordinator Pat Strange. The group greeted tourists as they made their way up the hill after the Riverbarge Explorer docked. Dante’s Dulcimers provided entertainment &#8220Civil War style” and employees of the VCVB, convention center and two bed and breakfasts passed out visitor guides.

&#8220We want to add more atmosphere to Vicksburg. We want our visitors to know we welcome them with Southern hospitality,” Strange said.

Compass, the contract manager of the VCVB and the convention center and auditorium, was joined by representatives of the Vicksburg Bed & Breakfast Association in providing personal welcomes.

Paul Caudillo of Annabelle Bed & Breakfast wore a black tuxedo he thought would remind people of early Vicksburg. He said the added touch was well-received by guests who were on their way to a short tour.

&#8220To have a greeting committee like this would make me feel like the city cared,” he said.

Strange said other members of partnering organizations will dress in antebellum costumes throughout the year when riverboats dock.

&#8220We hope to bring as much activity to the river front as possible,” she said. &#8220We want a royal welcome that will give us positive feedback.”

Keith and Ursula Leedy, two of about 30 traveling the eight-day, seven-night cruise from New Orleans to Memphis and back, said they enjoyed the warm welcome.

&#8220It’s a nice welcome,” said Wisconsin resident Ursula Leedy. &#8220It makes me feel like you want us to come.”

The Riverbarge Explorer will be docking here overnight Monday with more passengers. It also has dockings in Vicksburg scheduled for April 30 and May 28. Other dates with special charters are also planned. The Delta Queen steamboat will dock at City Front April 25.