There are plenty of festivals and fairs to experience in Mississippi this summer. Here’s a taste of what’s in store in the True South from late July into August.
Established in 1889, the Neshoba County Fair® in Philadelphia (from July 27 to August 3 this year) fosters political, agricultural and social exchanges of knowledge and ideas. Home of the state’s only licensed horse track since 1922 and the nation's largest campground fair, the fair is “Mississippi's Giant House Party®” and was entered on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Rides, games, entertainment and hundreds of fair cabins provide a great atmosphere for visiting and discussing the latest political issues.
The first annual Southern Crossroads Music and Tamale Festival in Jackson on August 10 and 11 will celebrate tamales from many different regions, featuring tamales in their earliest form to the “Mississippi” tamale created in the Delta region. Add to the mix real-time art from local and regional artists creating works during the festivities while displaying their previous creations on-site.
The first Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival in Clarksdale from August 10 to 12 took place in 1988 and was funded primarily by Clarksdale's downtown merchants. Since then, one of the largest blues and gospel festivals in Mississippi has grown every year to include some of best names in the business. Celebrated for its authenticity and focus on Mississippi's musical heritage, the event features entertainment by local and nationally known blues and gospel artists and also offers lectures and seminars about music and its unique roots.
The 2nd annual Long Beach Band Festival in Long Beach on August 11 offers a variety of fun for the entire family. Enjoy waterslides, live bands, kiddie land, exhibitions, food, vendors and much more.
Click on Visit Mississippi for events all summer in the True South.
For more information about top events in Mississippi take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Mississippi.