One of the great traditions of summer in the True South is to attend an outdoor festival or fair for a taste of the diverse cultural heritage displayed across Mississippi. Many of these are annual events that draw locals and visitors alike to enjoy long-standing traditions.
Here are just some of the entertaining festivals and fairs you can experience this summer in Mississippi.
Established in 1889, the Neshoba County Fair® in Philadelphia from July 22 to 29 fosters political, agricultural and social exchanges of knowledge and ideas. The nation's largest campground fair, the fair is “Mississippi's Giant House Party®”. Rides, games, entertainment and hundreds of fair cabins provide a great atmosphere.
The Exchange Club Fair in Brookhaven from July 23 to August 6 is reminiscent of an old-time county fair. Most of the rides were handmade by Exchange club members and members operate the rides. Brookhaven is an historic Mississippi town southwest of Jackson.
The Long Beach Festival on August 6 is a family-friendly festival featuring arts and crafts, cruise-in, charity biker run, food, entertainment, games, competitions and a very special salute to the military.
Enjoy the evening Bright Lights, Belhaven Nights Street Festival on August 13 celebrating Jackson's unique Belhaven neighborhood. Belhaven's Carlisle Street is “lit up” with art, children's events, vendors, one-act plays, musical acts and food.
The Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival from August 12 to 14 first 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.
For more information on events in Mississippi visit www.VisitMississippi.org
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.