january
JANUARY 7 | MERIDIAN
GREAT SCORPION TRAIL RUN
One of Mississippi’s newest ultra-races, this 50k, 25k and 12.5k trail run takes place on the trails surrounding beautiful Bonita Lakes Park.
greatscorpiontrailrun.com
JANUARY 8-15 | JACKSON
JXN INDIE MUSIC WEEK
A week-long series of concerts, showcases, panels and parties, spotlighting creatives from all genres including rock, hip-hop, EDM, blues, singer-songwriter and independent film and video.
jxnindiemusic.com
JANUARY 20-22 | OXFORD
OXFORD FIBER FESTIVAL
This is the oldest, continuous fiber festival in Mississippi and includes a festival reception, knitting competition, learning lunches, lectures and more.
oxfordfiberfestival.com
JANUARY 27-29 | CLARKSDALE
CLARKSDALE FILM & MUSIC FESTIVAL
Mississippi connected and music related movies are shown at local venues throughout Clarksdale.
clarksdalefilmfestival.com
february
FEBRUARY 9-11 | CLEVELAND
MISSISSIPPI DELTA POTTERY FESTIVAL
Potters from around the Southeast will converge in the Delta to sell their wares and pottery. Collectors will love the pottery swap meet.
662.843.2712
visitclevelandms.com
FEBRUARY 10-18 | JACKSON
DIXIE NATIONAL LIVESTOCK SHOW & RODEO
This annual event features livestock shows, equine events, agricultural showcases and the largest professional rodeo east of the Mississippi.
601.961.4000
mdac.ms.gov
FEBRUARY 18 | VICKSBURG
CARNAVAL DE MARDI GRAS
Celebrate Mardi Gras in downtown Vicksburg with a parade, carnival and gumbo cook-off.
601.634.4527
downtownvicksburg.org
FEBRUARY 25 | JACKSON
MISSISSIPPI BLUES MARATHON
Challenge yourself in a musical marathon or half-marathon, or take things a little easier with the “Quarter Note” quarter marathon or even a 5k.
504.454.6561
msbluesmarathon.events
march
MARCH 1-5 | OXFORD
OXFORD FILM FESTIVAL
This annual festival celebrates the art of independent cinema and shows with more than 200 quality films from across the globe.
877.560.3456
ox-film.com
MARCH 4 | HATTIESBURG
HATTIESBURG CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL
Sample more than 100 types of craft beer from 30+ national breweries at this annual downtown Hattiesburg event.
hattiesburgcraftbeerfest.com
MARCH 4 | VICKSBURG
RUN THRU HISTORY
Take a 10k run, 5k walk or 1-mile fun run through the Vicksburg National Military Park with living history presentations and enjoy an after party featuring live music.
601.638.1071
runthruhistory.org
MARCH 16-26 | COLUMBUS
COLUMBUS HISTORIC HOME TOURS
Enjoy tours of meticulously maintained historic homes and gardens. This event also features culinary, art and music experiences.
800.920.3533
visitcolumbusms.org
MARCH 25 | JACKSON
38TH ANNUAL HAL’S ST. PATTY’S PARADE & FESTIVAL
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Jackson at this fun loving, “rites of spring” event that includes a 5k, parade and music festival.
601.984.1972
halsstpaddysparade.com
MARCH 25 | HATTIESBURG
HUBFEST
Enjoy this art and music festival, boasting nationally recognized headliners on four live music stages and more than 250 vendors.
theadp.com
MARCH 25 | GREENWOOD
VIKING HALF MARATHON
The races will begin and end in the historic Cotton Row district and will take you through the flat, tree-lined streets of Greenwood. Racers and spectators will love the beautiful oaks and homes lining Grand Boulevard, once named ”One of America’s 10 Most Beautiful Streets” by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Garden Clubs of America.
662.453.2023
vikinghalfmarathon.com
MARCH 29-31 | OXFORD
OXFORD ANNUAL CONFERENCE FOR THE BOOK
Book worms will enjoy this three-day event with literary panels and readings from award-winning authors.
662.915.3374
oxfordconferenceforthebook.com
april
APRIL TBD | CARTHAGE
PICKIN’ 35
Shop more than 50 miles of yard sales from Vaiden to Walnut Grove along MS Hwy. 35.
601.267.9231
leakems.com
APRIL TBD | FLOWOOD
MUDBUG BASH
Fill up at the Chamber of Flowood’s annual crawfish boil with live music, unlimited crawfish, corn and potatoes at the Flowood Nature Park.
601.932.8007
flowoodchamber.com
APRIL TBD | RIDGELAND
TOWNSHIP JAZZ FESTIVAL
This event has gained a reputation as one of the best family-friendly music events in the state–and the only music festival in the Jackson metro area dedicated to jazz–with a full spectrum of artists from national recording artists to local up-and-coming professionals and students.
601.856.6001
townshipjazzfestival.com
APRIL TBD | SOUTHAVEN
42ND ANNUAL SPRINGFEST
Enjoy great entertainment, carnival midway—including kiddie and major rides, games, great concessions and the State of Mississippi Barbecue Championship.
662.890.7275
southaven.org
APRIL TBD | TUNICA
TUNICA RIVERGATE FESTIVAL
The Tunica Rivergate Festival offers a weekend lineup filled with live music, contests, kids‘ activities and lots of crawfish.
662.363.3800
tunicatravel.com
APRIL TBD | WIGGINS
WINGS OVER WIGGINS
Watch as contemporary, experimental and vintage aircraft fly in this exciting event that also features skydivers, food, arts & crafts and more.
601.928.5418
stonecounty.com
APRIL 1 | HATTIESBURG
HATTIESBURG HALF MARATHON
Voted the best half marathon in the state, the Hattiesburg Half Marathon highlights local attractions, while benefiting 13 area nonprofits.
601.583.6180
hburghalfmarathon.com
APRIL 1 | MERIDIAN
SIPP & SAVOR
Over two dozen award-winning Southern chefs showcase their distinctive dishes featuring Mississippi-sourced ingredients paired with fine drinks.
601.581.1550
msarts.org
APRIL 1-2 | MERIDIAN
MAKER FAIRE®
The Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum will join Maker Faires from around the world for the
“Greatest Show and Tell on Earth.” This family-friendly event showcases crafters, engineers, science clubs, authors, artists, inventors, photographers, tech enthusiasts and more.
601.693.9905
meridian.makerfaire.com
APRIL 1-2 | PASS CHRISTIAN
ART IN THE PASS
Art in the Pass is a vetted fine arts festival that attracts about 100 artists from 10 states and approximately 10,000 visitors from across the South.
228.452.5969
passmainstreet.com
APRIL 8 | CLINTON
16TH ANNUAL CATERPILLAR PARADE
Main Street Clinton’s “Spring into Green Market” features the Caterpillar Parade, 100 vendors, music and food along the brick streets.
601.924.5472
mainstreetclinton.com
APRIL 8 | PRENTISS
RUN FOR THE ROSES
This annual 5k attracts runners and walkers from across the country.
601.792.5196
runfortheroses.racesonline.com
APRIL 13-15 | COLUMBUS
CATFISH IN THE ALLEY
This is a celebration of the lives of African Americans in Columbus and the important contributions they have made throughout the community. The festival features live music, food and artisans.
800.920.3533
visitcolumbusms.org
APRIL 13-15 | CLARKSDALE
JUKE JOINT FESTIVAL
Juke Joint Festival is “half blues festival, half small town fair and all about the Delta” in historic Clarksdale.
jukejointfestival.com
APRIL 14-15 | VICKSBURG
VICKSBURG ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL
This annual arts and music festival in downtown Vicksburg features live music and art demonstrations, vendors, food and more.
601.630.2929
vicksburgconventioncenter.com
APRIL 15 | CARROLLTON
CRUISIN’ COTESWORTH
Cruisin’ Cotesworth, held on the grounds of historic Cotesworth, features antique, classic and collector cars, tours, demonstrations and other events.
662.299.0496
cotesworthcenter.com
APRIL 15 | LAUREL
DOWNTOWN LAUREL CRAWFEST
This festival is held in downtown Laurel with kids’ activities, live music and teams competing to be the winner for the best crawfish.
601.433.3255
laurelmainstreet.com
APRIL 21 | STARKVILLE
KING COTTON CRAWFISH BOIL
This is not your average crawfish boil. King Cotton has teams competing for the best crawfish with attendees being the judges. Live music and libations add to the fun.
662.323.3322
starkville.org
APRIL 21-22 | MERIDIAN
THREEFOOT FESTIVAL
Threefoot Festival brings together contemporary artisans and craftsmen, live entertainment, a children’s mini-festival, an art car parade and food vendors for a full weekend of family-friendly fun.
601.693.2787
threefootfestival.com
APRIL 22 | CLEVELAND
CROSSTIE ARTS & JAZZ FESTIVAL
Juried arts show, jazz music, and unique and thoughtful activities for the kids (plus some great food) highlight this cool, little festival.
662.843.2712
crosstiefestival.com
APRIL 28-29 | GREENWOOD
QUE ON THE YAZOO
Nestled along the banks of the Yazoo River, this annual barbecue cooking competition features live music and activities for barbecue enthusiasts of all ages throughout the weekend.
662.453.9197
mainstreetgreenwood.com
APRIL 28-29 | OXFORD
DOUBLE DECKER ARTS FESTIVAL
This annual festival features over 200 art and food vendors and live musical performances by touring artists.
800.758.9177
doubledeckerfestival.com
APRIL 28-29 | WIGGINS
PINE HILL FESTIVAL
One of South Mississippi’s longest-running festivals, this event features food, music, arts & crafts vendors, as well as 5k and 10k runs and a “Mutt Strut.”
601.928.5418
stonecounty.com
may
MAY TBD | HERNANDO
49TH ANNUAL A’FAIR ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL
Shop more than 200 vendors offering a variety of arts & crafts, including handcrafted pottery, painting, photography, woodcraft, jewelry and enjoy live music, craft performances and more.
hernandooptimist.org
MAY TBD | NATCHEZ
MUDBUG MUSIC FESTIVAL
Enjoy live music from big name performers outside along the Mississippi River in Natchez.
601.492.3000
visitnatchez.org
MAY TBD | RIDGELAND
SNAPPY SYNC SOIREE
The Bill Waller Craft Center hosts its annual opportunity to experience the magic of these impressive synchronous fireflies.
601.856.7546
mscrafts.org
MAY | NATCHEZ
NATCHEZ FESTIVAL OF MUSIC
This month-long celebration features world-class music and live theater performances ranging from Broadway musicals to jazz, blues and other special concerts.
601.807.4442
natchezfestivalofmusic.com
MAY 5-6 | COLUMBUS
MARKET STREET FESTIVAL
Enjoy this annual festival in historic downtown Columbus featuring more than 250 arts & crafts and food vendors, as well as dozens of special events, musical acts and other activities. This event has been named a “Top 20 Event” by the Southeast Tourism Society for 20 years.
662.328.6305
columbusmainstreet.com
MAY 5-7 | RIDGELAND
ART, WINE & WHEELS
Art, Wine and Wheels brings together three of Ridgeland’s signature events to create one epic weekend of cultural and outdoor experiences. Enjoy the Ridgeland Fine Arts Festival, Santé
South Wine Festival and the Natchez Trace Century Ride, Mississippi’s premier cycling event.
601.605.5252
artwineandwheels.com
MAY 5-7 | TUPELO
BLUE SUEDE CRUISE
A weekend full of classic, antique and hot rod automobiles on display with live music and great food.
662.213.8873
bluesc.com
MAY 6 | COLLINS
34TH ANNUAL OKATOMA FESTIVAL
This annual celebration features a 5k run/walk, parade, musical entertainment, artisans and food vendors, children’s area, quilt exhibit and car show.
601.765.6012
covingtonchamber.com
MAY 6 | RICHLAND
MARKET ON TOWN SQUARE
This market showcases vendors with arts & crafts, boutique clothing, accessories, great gift items and food products.
601.420.3402
richlandms.org
MAY 6-14 | MERIDIAN
JIMMIE RODGERS MUSIC FESTIVAL
Honoring the “Father of Country Music,” highlights of this nine-day celebration are daily live music, a music history seminar, outdoor festival, crawfish boil and a NOLA-style gospel brunch.
601.938.7427
jimmierodgers.com
MAY 11 | CANTON
CANTON FLEA MARKET ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW
This famous event is one of the South’s original and finest arts & crafts shows, showcasing over 1,000 vendors with items such as pottery, jewelry and more.
601.859.1307
cantontourism.com
MAY 11 | OCEAN SPRINGS
TASTE OF OCEAN SPRINGS FOOD CRAWL
An elegant evening for guests to sip and savor an array of food and beverages served up by a selection of top restaurants and nightlife venues of Ocean Springs.
228.875.4424
oceanspringschamber.com
MAY 12-14 | TUPELO
GUMTREE ART & WINE FESTIVAL
Tupelo’s annual celebration of visual and performing arts will include a wine festival with food pairing and other special events.
662.213.8992
gumtreeartandwinefestival.com
MAY 13 | FLOWOOD
FLOWOOD FAMILY FESTIVAL
The City of Flowood’s Flowood Family Festival features live music, local eats, kids’ activities and goodies, fireworks and more. Free.
601.939.4243
cityofflowood.com
MAY 13 | JACKSON
MISSISSIPPI MAKERS FEST
A day-long celebration of the state’s rich and diverse music and art. This festival features Mississippi artisans, live music, make-and-take activities, food trucks and more.
601.576.6850
msmakersfest.mdah.ms.gov
MAY 13 | HATTIESBURG
FARM TO FORK RIDE OR RUN
Enjoy a unique culinary experience that also features races for runners and cyclists along the Longleaf Trace, benefitting Extra Table.
extratable.org
MAY 19-20 | BAY ST. LOUIS
ANNUAL PIRATE DAY IN THE BAY
Join Captain Longbeard and his pirate crew for the annual Pirate Day in the Bay at “Krewe Central,” where you will find live music and carnival rides.
228.216.6416
mkotsh.com
MAY 20-21 | BILOXI
BLESSING OF THE FLEET & FAIS DO-DO
This annual event features a Fais Do-Do festival at Point Cadet on Saturday and a Blessing of the Fleet asking God for a bountiful and safe shrimping/boating season on Sunday.
228.435.6339
gulfcoast.org
MAY 26-28 | WAVELAND
ST. CLARE SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Enjoy fantastic food of all kinds–of course including seafood–as well as carnival rides, live music, crafts, silent auction, raffle and a classic car show.
228.467.9275
MAY 28 | PASS CHRISTIAN
JAZZ IN THE PASS
Enjoy views of the Mississippi Sound while listening to live music.
228.452.3315
passmainstreet.com
june
JUNE TBD | STARKVILLE
SALES & ALES
Enjoy craft beer tastings and shopping downtown. Participating retailers will have sales.
662.323.3322
starkville.org
JUNE TBD | OLIVE BRANCH
5TH ANNUAL MISSISSIPPI ALE HOUSE ALEIVERSARY
Come celebrate with live music, brew competitions, giveaways and games.
662.420.7538
mississippialehouse.com
JUNE 1-24 | HATTIESBURG
FESTIVALSOUTH
Mississippi’s only multi-week, multi-genre arts festival offers events for kids, adults, music lovers, film buffs, artists, theater enthusiasts and more.
festivalsouth.org
JUNE 2 | MERIDIAN
STATE GAMES OF MISSISSIPPI
This annual Olympic-style competition begins with an opening ceremony on the city hall lawn and features a parade of athletes, live music and fireworks display. The competition features more than 5,000 athletes and 37+ sports, held on multiple dates, in multiple locations.
800.482.0205
stategamesofms.org
JUNE 7-11 | TUPELO
25TH ANNUAL TUPELO ELVIS FESTIVAL
Tupelo’s annual celebration of its favorite native son celebrates its 25th anniversary with live music, an Elvis tribute artist competition and more.
662.841.6598
tupeloelvisfestival.com
JUNE 7-10 | VICKSBURG
MISS MISSISSIPPI COMPETITION
Watch this Emmy award-winning statewide competition as contestants compete for the Miss Mississippi crown and to qualify for the Miss America competition.
601.638.6746
miss-mississippi.com
JUNE 8-18 | BILOXI
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI SUMMER FAIR
This is a family-friendly, jam-packed annual event that offers rides, live music, shows, contests and entertainment.
228.594.3700
mscoastcoliseum.com
JUNE 9-11 | GRENADA
THUNDER ON WATER
Enjoy a festival with carnival rides, car/truck/bike show, tractor pull, fireworks, vendors, food trucks, music, hot air balloons, kids’ activities and more.
662.614.4224
thunderonwater.org
JUNE 10 | POPLARVILLE
BLUEBERRY JUBILEE
The annual Blueberry Jubilee is packed with vendors, food and entertainment.
601.795.7033
JUNE 17 | BENTONIA
BENTONIA BLUES FESTIVAL
Mr. Jimmy “Duck” Holmes presents his festival at the historic Blue Front Cafe, where he has been keeping the blues alive for more than 50 years.
800.381.0662
visityazoo.org
JUNE 17 | GRENADA
SOUTHERN FIRECRACKER TRIATHLON
This triathlon features a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride and 13.1-mile run.
901.472.4630
southernfirecracker.com
july
JULY TBD | BROOKHAVEN
BROOKSTOCK
Enjoy the sounds of rock ‘n’ roll during this three-night event featuring musicians from all over the South.
601.833.1411
visitbrookhavenms.com
JULY TBD | RIDGELAND
CELEBRATE AMERICA BALLOON GLOW
Enjoy food, fireworks, kids’ corner and live music at Northpark Mall.
601.863.2300
visitnorthpark.com
JULY 1 | COLUMBUS
FIREWORKS ON THE WATER
Held on the banks of the Tennessee- Tombigbee Waterway, this patriotic celebration features food vendors, Independence Day fireworks and live music.
800.920.3533
visitcolumbusms.org
JULY 1 | RICHLAND
PATRIOTIC PARADE
This family-friendly patriotic celebration features a walking parade and parade with bikes, scooters, trikes, golf carts, wagons, strollers and more.
601.420.3400
richlandms.org
JULY 7-8 | CORINTH
SLUGBURGER FESTIVAL
Since 1988, Corinth has celebrated its local culinary creation, the slugburger. Enjoy slugburgers (a mixture of meat with an extender such as soybean grits), live music, a carnival and more.
corinth.net
JULY 12-15 | PHILADELPHIA
CHOCTAW INDIAN FAIR
Come celebrate the tribe’s biggest celebration with historical and cultural displays, tribal arts & crafts, stickball and the Choctaw Indian Princess Pageant.
601.663.7532
choctawindianfair.com
JULY 14-15 | HATTIESBURG
MISSISSIPPI MISS HOSPITALITY COMPETITION
The woman crowned at the 74th annual competition will serve as Mississippi’s official goodwill ambassador for tourism and economic development during her reign.
misshospitality.com
JULY 21-28 | PHILADELPHIA
NESHOBA COUNTY FAIR
Known as Mississippi’s Giant House PartyTM , this annual event was established in 1889 and features political speeches, horse races, live music, fair rides and more.
neshobacountyfair.net
august
AUGUST TBD | WIGGINS
CULTIVATION NATION TRIATHLON
Challenge yourself to a 600 yard swim, 17 mile bike ride and 3.1 mile run. Relax afterwards with an after party and awards ceremony.
stonecounty.com
AUGUST TBD | FLOWOOD
MAYORS CUP GOLF BENEFIT
The city of Flowood’s annual golf tournament, where all proceeds benefit a cause of the mayor’s choosing.
601.939.4243
cityofflowood.com
AUGUST TBD | SUMMIT
SMOKIN’ ON THE TRACKS
This annual barbecue cookoff raises money to benefit various organizations in the Pike County area.
601.248.2509
AUGUST TBD | SOUTHAVEN
TRI STATE BLUES FEST
Get yourself in tune with the blues as this festival returns for it’s 21st anniversary with an all star lineup of blues musicians.
landerscenter.com
AUGUST 2-3 | WATER VALLEY
54TH WATERMELON FESTIVAL
This fun family weekend features a 3k walk/run, street dance, car show, arts & crafts, food trucks, fireworks show, melon drop and more.
662.473.7455
watervalleychamber.com
AUGUST 3 | GREENWOOD
BIKES, BLUES & BAYOUS
This annual cycling event is Mississippi’s largest bike ride! Ride along the alluvial plains of the Delta and then celebrate after at the block party.
bikesbluesbayous.com
AUGUST 9 | OXFORD
IRON BARTENDER
Enjoy a night of special cocktails crafted by Mississippi bartenders. Vote who will take home the 2024 Iron Bartender title.
662.236.6429
oxfordarts.com
AUGUST 9-11 | CLARKSDALE
SUNFLOWER RIVER BLUES & GOSPEL
Since 1988 the Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival has celebrated blues music in its authentic style. Free admission.
sunflowerfest.org
september
SEPTEMBER TBD | HOLLY SPRINGS
22ND ANNUAL HUMMINGBIRD NATURE & MIGRATION CELEBRATION
One of the Southeast’s biggest nature festivals, this celebration includes Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, renowned speakers, guided nature walks, live animal shows, kids’ activities and arts & crafts.
662.252.1155
strawberryplains.audubon.org
SEPTEMBER TBD | GREENWOOD
DRIVING THE DELTA CAR SHOW
This unique car show is open to all makes and models of cars, trucks, race cars and motorcycles.
visitgreenwood.com
SEPTEMBER TBD | IUKA
IUKA HERITAGE DAY
This 35th annual festival celebrates Iuka’s heritage with arts & crafts, music, a car show and food vendors.
662.423.0051
SEPTEMBER TBD | OCEAN SPRINGS
MISSISSIPPI SONGWRITER’S FESTIVAL
This annual festival celebrates the art of music writing with over 100 local and regional writers, Mississippi Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony and live music.
mssongwritersfestival.com
SEPTEMBER TBD | FLOWOOD
TASTE OF FLOWOOD
Chamber of Flowood’s annual food festival, showcasing area restaurants’ signature dishes and specialty products at Mirror Lake on the Ergon campus.
601.932.8007
flowoodchamber.com
SEPTEMBER TBD | COLUMBUS
TENNESSEE WILLIAMS TRIBUTE
The annual Tennessee Williams Tribute celebrates the great playwright and poet in the town of his birth through varied programs of scholarly lectures, dramatic presentations, and social gatherings.
visitcolumbusms.org
SEPTEMBER TBD | NEW ALBANY
WILLIAM FAULKNER LITERARY FESTIVAL
Celebrate William Faulkner in his birth month, September, in his birthplace, New Albany with an awards banquet and program for the winners of the Faulkner Literary Competition and the opening of the Faulkner and Folk Art Exhibit.
662.538.0014
williamfaulknerliterary.com
SEPTEMBER 1 | TUPELO
TUPELO MARATHON & 14.2 MILER
A Tupelo Labor Day weekend tradition, the race is a Boston qualifier run on beautiful, rolling country roads.
tupelorunningclub.org
SEPTEMBER 7 | COLUMBIA
COLUMBIA FOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL
Enjoy this fun event in downtown Columbia that features a wide variety of food trucks and an assortment of music on two stages.
601.736.6385
SEPTEMBER 12-14 | JACKSON
MISSISSIPPI SCIENCE FEST
Hosted by the four museums of the LeFleur Museum District, this festival offers interactive science, technology, engineering and math activities.
601.981.5469 | mssciencefest.org
SEPTEMBER 14 | BILOXI
43RD ANNUAL BILOXI SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Each September, the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce hosts its largest fundraiser. Attendees will enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, and the best seafood on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
228.604.0014
SEPTEMBER 14 | GRENADA
GRENADA’S DOWNTOWN JUBILEE
Enjoy a fun-filled family day of music, arts & crafts, children’s activities, food trucks, Chakchiuma Swamp tours, Junior Auxiliary of Grenada’s Touch-a-Truck event and much more.
662.226.2571
SEPTEMBER 14 | JACKSON
MISSISSIPPI BOOK FESTIVAL
“Mississippi’s Literary Lawn Party” features visiting authors, panel discussions, book signings, booksellers, food trucks and family-friendly fun.
769.717.2648
msbookfestival.com
SEPTEMBER 21 | GREENVILLE
47TH ANNUAL DELTA BLUES & HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Celebrate the blues with the music genre’s oldest running festival in the world.
662.335.3523
deltabluesms.org
SEPTEMBER 26 | VICKSBURG
SUPPER ON THE ‘SIP STROLL ALONG THE OLD MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Bridge, and sample selections from local restaurants and enjoy live music.
601.636.1733
unitedwayvicksburg.org
SEPTEMBER 27-28 | BURNSVILLE
BURNSVILLE WATERWAY FESTIVAL & RODEO
The 32nd annual festival WILL feature a car show, music, bingo, petting zoo, crafts and the second annual Buckin’ On The Bigbee Rodeo.
662.423.0051
SEPTEMBER 28 | GREENVILLE
GREENVILLE AVIATION DAYS
Enjoy the Mississippi Delta’s premier aviation celebration held at the Delta Regional Airport.
662.334.3121
SEPTEMBER 28 | MERIDIAN
ROSE HILL COSTUMED CEMETERY TOUR
Rose Hill Company of Players, dressed in period costume, tell the documented stories of those buried there. From gypsies to city founders, the stories tell a rich history.
601.479.2483
rosehillplayers.net
SEPTEMBER 28 | NEW ALBANY
TALLAHATCHIE RIVERFEST
New Albany’s premier festival begins with Friday music on the Trailhead downtown. Saturday will have a street market including arts, food, crafts, kids’ activities, music, a pet parade and more.
662.534.3438
visitnewalbany.com
october
OCTOBER TBD | ABERDEEN
BUKKA WHITE BLUES FESTIVAL
Enjoy non-stop blues music on the banks of the Tenn-Tom Waterway and a barbecue and steak cookoff.
662.369.9440
bukkawhitebluesfestival.com
OCTOBER TBD | CARTHAGE
OKTOBERFEST
Enjoy food, shopping, live music and fun at the oldest festival in Carthage.
601.267.9231
leakems.com
OCTOBER TBD | FLOWOOD
TASTE OF FLOWOOD
The Chamber of Flowood’s annual festival showcases local restaurants’ signature dishes and specialty products at Mirror Lake.
601.932.8007
flowoodchamber.com
OCTOBER TBD | GRENADA
GREEN STREET MUSIC FESTIVAL
Enjoy a full day of live music downtown on Green Street, local art show and the “When Pigs Fly in Grenada” barbecue contest.
662.699.2571
OCTOBER TBD | RIDGELAND
RENAISSANCE EURO FEST
For European auto enthusiasts, this is time to enjoy the beauty of British, Italian, German and many other vehicles. It’s a perfect time to be outside and view gorgeous autos and motorcycles.
601.946.1950
euro-fest.net
OCTOBER TBD | STARKVILLE
BULLDOG BASH
Mississippi’s largest free outdoor concert is held annually in downtown Starkville.
662.325.3045
msubulldogbash.com
OCTOBER TBD | STARKVILLE
COTTON DISTRICT ARTS FESTIVAL
Starkville’s premiere arts festival is held each year and hosts the best food, music and art vendors.
662.324.3080
cdafestival.com
OCTOBER TBD | YAZOO CITY
YAZOO COUNTY FAIR
Enjoy rides, games, food, local art and canning exhibits. Admission price includes free parking and unlimited rides.
800.381.0662
visityazoo.org
OCTOBER 1-8 | COASTWIDE
CRUISIN’ THE COAST
This Coastwide event features classic cars on display and parading Highway 90 from Waveland to Pascagoula. Most venues and casinos offer 50s & 60s era entertainment.
228.385.3847
cruisinthecoast.com
OCTOBER 6-7 | CARROLLTON
CARROLLTON PILGRIMAGE
Download the free walking tour of Carrollton (App Store or Google Play) narrated by Walt Grayson and tour historic homes and churches.
662.392.4810
visitcarrolltonms.org
OCTOBER 6-7 | COLLINS
PEANUT FESTIVAL
This festival at Mitchell Farm features farm tours, a pumpkin patch, maze, entertainment, food and arts & crafts vendors.
601.765.8609
OCTOBER 6-7 | TISHOMINGO COUNTY
TRASH & TREASURES ALONG THE TENN-TOM WATERWAY
Shop more than 50 miles of yard sales along Highway 25 and Highway 72.
662.423.0051
tishomingofunhere.org
OCTOBER 7 | VICKSBURG
BRICKS & SPOKES
This cycling event features 10-, 30-, 50- and 60-mile routes throughout downtown and historic Vicksburg.
601.634.4527
downtownvicksburg.org
OCTOBER 7 | COLUMBIA
HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Held in City Park, this annual event features arts & crafts, food vendors and more.
601.731.3999
OCTOBER 7 | LAUREL
LOBLOLLY FESTIVAL
Enjoy downtown Laurel’s largest annual event celebrating sawmill heritage with arts & crafts, great food, entertainment, kids‘ activities and more.
601.433.3255
laurelmainstreet.com
OCTOBER 7 | PASS CHRISTIAN
PASS MONARCH FESTIVAL
This event will feature speakers, educational exhibits, hands-on activities for all ages and a walking parade for anyone in butterfly regalia (including pets).
228.452.4596
OCTOBER 7 | WIGGINS
TASTE OF STONE COUNTY
More than 20 booths fill the streets along Blaylock Park, welcoming visitors to enjoy music and the great foods found in Stone County.
601.928.5418
stonecounty.com
OCTOBER 12-14 | CLARKSDALE
TENNESSEE WILLIAMS FESTIVAL
This festival features fun and enriching events devoted to America’s greatest playwright who grew up in Clarksdale and went on to use the people and places for inspiration in his stories.
deltawilliamsfestival.com
OCTOBER 14 | VICKSBURG
OVER THE RIVER RUN
Enjoy a 5-mile run or walk over the Old Mississippi River Bridge, followed by an after party with live music.
601.631.2997
southernculture.org
OCTOBER 20-21 | NATCHEZ
NATCHEZ BALLOON FESTIVAL
Established in 1986, this weekend festival features hot-air balloons and live music in historic downtown Natchez.
601.442.2500
natchezballoonfestival.com
OCTOBER 20-22 | BILOXI
BEAUVOIR’S FALL MUSTER
Experience the sights and sounds of the 1800s with vendors, food, training and battles. There will also be a re-enactors camp in the back.
228.388.4400
visitbeauvoir.org
OCTOBER 20-28 | LAUREL
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI FAIR
This fair features great entertainment, delicious fair food, the best carnival rides around and agricultural and livestock competitions.
601.649.9010
somissfair.com
OCTOBER 21 | GAUTIER
GAUTIER MULLET & MUSIC FESTIVAL
Experience the famous Mullet Toss contest and see how far you can throw a mullet! Enjoy shopping, arts & crafts, a variety of local cuisine, kids’ zone, car and boat show, fishing rodeo and live music.
228.215.0828
gautiermulletfestival.com
OCTOBER 21-23 | JACKSON
OKTOBERFEST
Fertile Ground Beer Co. will host its inaugural Oktoberfest celebration, featuring specialty brews, custom beer steins, brat-eating and stein-hoisting competitions, kids’ activities and more. Lederhosen are optional, but obviously encouraged.
fertilegroundbeer.com
OCTOBER 26-28 | RICHLAND
NIGHTMARE ON HARPER STREET
This spooky event is for ages 8 and up only. You never know what will be around the next corner–creaking doors, shadows, spiders and a ghost or two.
601.420.3402
richlandms.org
OCTOBER 28 | MAGEE
MAGEE CRAZY DAY FALL FESTIVAL
Enjoy a full day of fun and good food, along with arts & crafts, kids’ zone, antique tractor and car show, lots of music, touch-a-truck and so much more.
601.849.2517
mageechamberofcommerce.com
OCTOBER 28 | ROLLING FORK
GREAT DELTA BEAR AFFAIR
This family-friendly festival offers live music, vendors and many activities.
662.873.6261
greatdeltabearaffair.org
november
NOVEMBER TBD | NATCHEZ
ANGELS ON THE BLUFF
This annual tour is an informative and entertaining tour of selected gravesites as local citizens and/or descendants tell the history, romance tragedy and mystery surrounding the people buried at these sites.
visitnatchez.org
NOVEMBER TBD | OCEAN SPRINGS
PETER ANDERSON ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL
This annual festival honors its namesake artist, the original potter of Shearwater Pottery, and is one of the largest arts festivals on the Gulf Coast.
peterandersonfestival.com
NOVEMBER 1-4 | JACKSON
MISTLETOE MARKETPLACE
This three-day holiday shopping extravaganza features more than 100 merchants from across the nation and is presented by the Junior League of Jackson.
601.948.2357
mistletoemarketplace.com
NOVEMBER 3-4 | MERIDIAN
SOULE’ LIVE STEAM FESTIVAL
Step back in time to the age of steam. See live steam engines, rail engines, belt driven machinery and much more.
601.693.9905
soulelivesteam.com
NOVEMBER 4 | VARDAMAN
VARDAMAN SWEET POTATO FESTIVAL
The Vardaman Sweet Potato Festival will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a 5k walk/run, sweet potato tasting booth and pie eating contest, tractor and car show, pageant and food and craft vendors.
vardamansweetpotatofestival.com
662.682.7561
NOVEMBER 10-12 | BILOXI
RON MEYERS CHRISTMAS CITY GIFT SHOP
Shop more than 300 booths with handmade crafts, unique items, different foods and gifts for everyone. This event also has a Santa playland featuring photos with Santa, free kids’ crafts, face-painting and live music.
228.831.3020
christmascitygiftshow.com
NOVEMBER 11 | CLINTON
16TH ANNUAL OLDE TOWNE HOLIDAY MARKET
The brick streets of Olde Towne will be filled with Christmas spirit along with 120 vendors and choir and dance performances.
601.924.5472
mainstreetclintonms.com
NOVEMBER 11 | HERNANDO
DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS
This event recreates an atmosphere of the Christmas Victorian Era including a farmers market, carriage rides, caroling, craft demonstrations, shopping and more.
cityofhernando.org
NOVEMBER 11 | HOLLY SPRINGS
RUST COLLEGE FOUNDERS DAY PARADE & CELEBRATION
Celebrate Mississippi’s oldest historically black college during this annual parade.
662.252.8000
rustcollege.edu
NOVEMBER 25 | BAY ST. LOUIS
CHRISTMAS IN THE BAY
Celebrate the holidays with the annual tree lighting and parade through downtown Bay St. Louis starting at the Bay St. Louis Municipal Harbor.
228.463.9222
december
DECEMBER TBD | FLOWOOD
CHILI COOK-OFF & GRAND LIGHTING OF THE PARK
Chamber members compete in a chili cook-off while the city hosts its grand Christmas lighting, all at Winner’s Circle Park.
601.932.8007
flowoodchamber.com
DECEMBER TBD | OXFORD
HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAYS
Celebrate the holiday season in Oxford with ice skating and holiday cheer.
800.758.9177
visitoxfordms.com
DECEMBER 2 | BILOXI
CHRISTMAS ON THE WATER
Boats parade along the Biloxi Channel in full holiday décor, with a fireworks show after the parade.
228.617.3112 | 228.432.2563
DECEMBER 9-10 | COASTWIDE
MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST MARATHON
This event features a full marathon (a Boston Marathon qualifier), half marathon, 5k and kids’ marathon.
mississippigulfcoastmarathon.com
DECEMBER 10 | RICHLAND
CHRISTMAS IN RICHLAND
Richland boasts holiday cheer with its local Market-Community Center, Christmas on Town Square and Christmas Parade.
601.420.3402
richlandms.org
DECEMBER 16 | POPLARVILLE
CHRISTMAS ON MAIN
This holiday celebration features vendors on the Town Green, entertainment, pictures with Santa and shopping at businesses around town.
601.795.0578
poplarvillechamber.org
DECEMBER 21 | ABERDEEN
POLAR EXPRESS
This annual pajama party is held at the historic Elkin Theatre in Aberdeen and features visits with Santa, ornament crafts and classic Christmas movies on the big screen.
662.369.9440
aberdeenms.org
DECEMBER 21 | JEFF DAVIS COUNTY
LIGHT UP THE TRACE ON THE DARKEST DAY OF THE YEAR
This luminaria event raises money for lights on the Longleaf Trace Rails-to-Trails. Purchase luminarias to honor a loved one or to commemorate an event or to send a special message.
601.792.5903
discoverjeffdaviscounty.com
Multi-Month
YEAR-ROUND | CLARKSDALE
LIVE MUSIC 7 NIGHTS A WEEK
Enjoy live blues music from various artists at different venues each night. View the weekly schedule on the Visit Clarksdale website.
662.627.6149
visitclarksdale.com
YEAR-ROUND | CORINTH
PICKIN’ ON THE SQUARE
Each Thursday evening local singers and musicians perform bluegrass and old time favorites in front of the Corinth courthouse.
662.287.8300
corinth.net
YEAR-ROUND | PEARL
TRADE DAYS AT JONES CENTER FLEA MARKET
Open every Saturday (except Christmas) from dawn to dusk, this mostly open air flea market stretches across seven acres.
601.939.4131
tradedaysllc.com
YEAR-ROUND | RIDGELAND
TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES
Catch your favorite big-name acts performing live on the lawn at Renaissance at Colony Park, held throughout the year.
888.818.7349
twilightms.com
YEAR-ROUND | VICKSBURG
VICKSBURG SECOND SATURDAY
Enjoy a series of unique and free events and activities in downtown Vicksburg the second Saturday of each month. Expect live music, performing arts, sidewalk sales and more.
601.883.9939
visitvicksburg.com
JANUARY 5-FEBRUARY 21 | COASTWIDE
COASTAL MISSISSIPPI MARDI GRAS
Celebrate Mardi Gras across the Mississippi Gulf Coast with decorated floats, marching bands, beads and trinkets.
228.896.6699
gulfcoast.org
FEBRUARY 16-MARCH 26 | GULFPORT
GULF COAST WINTER CLASSIC HORSE SHOW
This six-week United States Equestrian Foundation AA Rated Hunter-Jumper event has approximately 1,000 horses exhibiting and a free Sunday Grand Prix. This annual event is hosted at the award-winning Harrison County Equestrian Center.
228.832.3691
gulfcoastclassiccompany.com
MARCH 3-5 & OCTOBER 7-8, 12 & 14 | WINONA
HILL FIRE: MISSISSIPPI’S FOLK LIFE PLAY
Hill Fire is a play produced semi-annually by the Montgomery County Arts Council. A new play is locally written each year from collected stories and written history and depicts the lives, history and traditions of Southerners and their families.
662.310.0199
hillfire.org
MARCH 11-APRIL 11 & SEPTEMBER TBD | NATCHEZ
NATCHEZ PILGRIMAGE
Natchez welcomes visitors to pilgrimages each spring and fall. Enjoy tours of the city’s many preserved historic homes and unique evening events.
601.653.0919
natchezpilgrimage.com
MARCH 31-APRIL 1 | ABERDEEN
ABERDEEN PILGRIMAGE
Wander through beautiful gardens, tour historic homes, view magnificent architecture and experience the timeless charm that is Aberdeen. Don’t miss carriage rides and “Lies and Legends” cemetery tours.|
662.369.9440
aberdeenpilgrimage.com
JUNE 29-JULY 2 | CANTON
MISSISSIPPI’S CHAMPIONSHIP HOT AIR BALLOON FEST
This annual event features fireworks, colorful hot air balloons, live entertainment and lots of family fun.
601.859.1307
cantontourism.com
JUNE 29-JULY 1 | BAY ST. LOUIS
ANNUAL OUR LADY OF THE GULF CRAB FESTIVAL
Celebrate with local food, live music, arts & crafts booths, rides, raffles, crab races, a $15,000 drawdown and more.
228.467.6509
olgchurch.net
JUNE 30-JULY 4 | GULFPORT
MISSISSIPPI DEEP SEA FISHING RODEO
This fishing rodeo also includes carnival rides, daily fish weigh-ins, arts & craft vendors and a fireworks display.
228.697.4113
mississippideepseafishingrodeo.com
JULY-SEPTEMBER | NEW ALBANY
WILLIAM FAULKNER LITERARY FESTIVAL
Celebrate Faulkner in his birthplace, New Albany. The lecture series begins in July and ends with an awards banquet and program for the winners of the Faulkner Literary Competition and the opening of the Faulkner and Folk Art Exhibit at the Union County Museum.
662.534.0041
williamfaulknerliterarycompetition.com
SEPTEMBER 27-OCTOBER 1 | JACKSON
SANDERSON FARMS PGA CHAMPIONSHIP
An annual stop on the PGA TOUR, this golf tournament is held at the Country Club of Jackson and features professional players. The tournament raises money for Century Club Charities.
601.898.4653
sandersonfarmschampionship.com
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER | YAZOO CITY
YAZOO COUNTY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
This annual holiday celebration begins with the colorful lighting of Main Street in Yazoo City and also features multiple events during the season.
800.381.0662
visityazoo.org
NOVEMBER 15-DECEMBER | CLEVELAND
50 NIGHTS OF LIGHTS
Marvel at one million Christmas lights and the best window displays south of 5th Avenue that adorn Cotton Row in this charming Delta town.
662.843.2712
50nightsoflights.com
NOVEMBER 18-DECEMBER 31 | COLUMBIA
WINTER WONDERLAND
Columbia’s hallmark outdoor ice skating rink provides a unique and large skating experience with live music and light shows.
experiencecolumbiams.com
NOVEMBER 24-DECEMBER 31 | GULFPORT
GULFPORT HARBOR LIGHTS WINTER FESTIVAL
This winter festival features a synchronized light show, Santa’s Village, “Elfie Selfie” stations, holiday-themed rides and concession items available for purchase.
228.868.5881
gulfportharborlights.com
NOVEMBER 24-DECEMBER 31 | GULFPORT
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LIGHTS FESTIVAL
The Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum offers one of the largest Christmas light shows in the area, as well as arts & crafts, live performances and special guests, and visits with Santa.
228.284.5731
mcmrcm.org
NOVEMBER 25-27 & DECEMBER 2-23 | CANTON
CANTON CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
Experience the joy of the season in Canton, the “City of Lights,” with an interactive Christmas village, horse drawn carriage rides, a carousel and more on the historic square downtown.
601.859.1307
cantontourism.com
