It’s no secret that some incredible writers hail from Mississippi. But did you know the state actually hosts a festival, celebrating authors and their works? It’s true. Dubbed a "literary lawn party," the annual event is fast approaching, and you don’t want to miss it! Take a look:
On August 18, 2018, thousands will flock to Jackson for the Mississippi Book Festival.
Relatively new, the event was held for the first time in August 2015. The first festival attracted more than 3,700 attendees. By the third year, that number had almost doubled!
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The "literary lawn party and book lovers’ celebration" takes place on the grounds of the state Capitol, nearby Galloway church, and the surrounding streets.
Even better, the authors directly connect with fans as guests on official panels. Festival-goers can sit in on any of the lively panel discussions for a truly unique experience.
Live music and tasty local food only add to the festival’s allure. Food vendors set up along West Street. Grab some grub and dine on the Capitol lawn or in the shady pavilion.
Take advantage of the festival being located at the Mississippi State Capitol Building by touring the impressive structure. Guided tours begin at 11 a.m. the day of the festival and depart from the ground floor Visitor Desk every 30 minutes.
Your Ultimate Guide to Fall Attractions and Activities in Mississippi
From cruising the Natchez Trace Parkway to family-friendly festivals to visiting a state park, here are our picks for the best things to do in Mississippi this fall.
Nothing satisfies me more than knowing that fall is around the corner. Without a doubt, it’s my favorite season of the year. I love all the fall activities as well as the family traditions - my favorites being the fall festivals and visiting the local pumpkin patches. If you’re like me and you enjoy this time of year, then you must be thinking of ways to celebrate. Well, think no further because we have put together a list of the best things to do in Mississippi this fall. Whether you’re a leaf peeper or love picking pumpkins or getting lost in corn mazes or adore the seasonal festivals, we’ve found all the fun Mississippi fall activities to create new memories with your family.
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Mississippi Fall Foliage: Where to go in Mississippi for Fall Foliage
Leaf peepers rejoice! Beginning in mid-October, you’ll get to witness the most stunning Mississippi fall foliage. Once the season peaks, you’ll want to find the best seats in the house. Fortunately, we have found them for you! Check out these scenic destinations showcasing the best fall foliage in Mississippi.
1. Natchez Trace Parkway
Taken at Tombigbee State Park near Tupelo, Mississippi in November, 2014.
Location: Tupelo, Mississippi
Wow Factor: There are several points of interest along this iconic drive through Mississippi. The highway stretches through 3 states - Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.
Need To Know: The park is open every day. There is a $2 admission fee and kids 5 and under are free.
As one of the most iconic places to witness the breathtaking beauty of the fall season in Mississippi, it makes sense to kick off our list with a scenic drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway. At 444 miles long, this autumn hotspot meanders through Tennessee, parts of Alabama and almost spans the entire Magnolia State. While you don’t need to leave your car to see the changing colors, we recommend that you stop at some of the glowing destinations along the way. One in particular that we recommend is Tombigbee State Park near Tupelo, where the fall colors are bursting in all their glory.
Wow Factor: Haven for nature lovers and a great town to visit in fall.
Need To Know: To see the fall colors, be sure to visit in mid-October.
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While the small town of Grenada is great to visit no matter the time of year, the town really comes alive during the autumn season. As a paradise for nature lovers, you’ll find plenty of fall activities here, but one of our favorite things to do is to cruise the Grenada Lake Loop. On this 50-mile drive you’ll get to witness Grenada Lake as it lights up with beautiful fall foliage. Also, you’ll want to take some time to check out other points of interest along the way like the Yalobusha River historic bridge, Hugh White State Park, and Carver Point State Park, just to name a few.
3. Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge, Starkville
Wow Factor: A 48,000-acres wildlife refuge featuring birdwatching, hiking, hunting, and fishing.
Need To Know: The refuge is free to visit, but if you plan to hunt, you must purchase a permit.
A true hidden gem and one of Mississippi’s best kept secrets, Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge belongs on your list this year. Boasting 48,000 acres as well as 2 scenic lakes, you’ll have plenty of space to explore. The cypress trees put on a nature show unlike any other. They illuminate the lakes with hues of deep orange that will take your breath away. Be sure to plan your visit in October if you want to see this vibrant autumn nature show. Bird watchers, you’ll also enjoy this refuge as it’s a sanctuary for migratory birds.
Wow Factor: The tallest man-made waterfall in Mississippi.
Need To Know: There is a small admission fee of $5 for adults and $3 for kids. Parking is free.
Known as the tallest waterfall in the state, Dunns Falls Park attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is a popular attraction during the summer months, but fall is just as spectacular. The short and easy trail offers scenic views of the Chunky River, and you can also see the 65-foot waterfall too. At the beginning of the autumn season, the trees are covered with colorful leaves, but if you visit later in October, the walking paths will be blanketed with them. In addition to the hiking trails, you can rent a canoe or paddle boat to float along the river to view more of the changing scenery.
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Best Pumpkin Patches in Mississippi
Since fall is knocking on our doorsteps, you might have searched for fall activities near me. And if you have, you’re in for a treat! We found some of the best pumpkin patches in Mississippi that are filled with fun family-friendly activities. Whether you enjoy picking pumpkins, hayrides, corn mazes, or even spooky attractions, these farms have something for everyone. Check them out!
Wow Factor: Largest pumpkin patch in Mississippi with tons of family-friendly activities.
Need To Know: The fall season kicks off on October 4 and the farm is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. General admission is $14.95, and kids under 2 are free.
Of course, the largest pumpkin patch in Mississippi - Wise Family Farms - is on our list. Bring your entire family to create new memories as you enjoy all the fun fall activities that we love. Aside from picking out your own pumpkins, the farm offers a massive corn maze, wagon rides, petting zoo, a playground, mini golf, not to mention you can buy yummy fall treats from the seasonal restaurant. There is so much to do and see during the fall that you should plan on spending the day here.
Wow Factor: In addition to fall activities, the farm has a charming old country store, where you can shop for tons of goodies.
Need To Know: Stop by the farm on weekends starting on September 28. General admission is $16 per person, and kids under 2 are free.
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Bull Bottom Farms is a fun fall destination in Mississippi for kids of all ages and adults too. With all the attractions you could easily spend an entire day on this farm. Some of the favorite attractions include the corn maze, pig races, a giant jumping pillow, the hayride, the animal park, slides, and so much more. Plus, there is a concession stand selling burgers, hotdogs, BBQ, popcorn, and candied apples, too. You’ll have so much fun that this farm might become your new favorite place to visit in Mississippi in the fall.
Wow Factor: Massive 8-acre corn maze as well as other fun fall attractions.
Need To Know: The season begins on September 28, and ticket prices vary depending on the attraction. They range between $16.18-$37.69. Kids 2 and under are free.
When you visit Seward Farms in Lucedale, you should bring your camera to capture all the fall memories here. Especially if you visit on Character Day, when our favorite lovable cartoon characters like Mickey, Minnie, Cinderella, Belle, and more, take over the farm. But folks, the fun fall adventures don't stop there though. There are about 15 attractions included with admission that include an 8-acre corn maze, pig races, petting zoo, cow train, hayrides, a mini golf, and tons of play areas for the little ones. You'll for sure start new fall traditions for you and your family here.
Wow Factor: Award-winning farm with a country store and haunted attractions.
Need To Know: The fall activities kick off on September 21 and the Haunted Farm starts on October 04. Ticket prices vary by attraction.
An award-winning farm, the 120-acre Cedar Hill Farm is one of the best places to spend a fall day in Mississippi. You can find traditional activities like a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, pony and train rides, a petting zoo, and more. But another reason to visit is the spooky and terrifying Haunted Farm attraction. Featuring a haunted hayride, Zombie Paintball, and Trail of Terror, this is not recommended for kids under 10, but it’s a great activity for teens and adults. If you’re searching for something fun and unique to do this fall, you should add this farm to your list.
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Best Fall Festivals in Mississippi
Do you love festivals like we do? Well, we found 3 of the best fall festivals in Mississippi this year. Whether you love live performances, historical events, delicious food, or you’re searching for an incredible adventure, we have something for you. Get ready to add these festivals to your list of things to do in Mississippi in the fall.
Wow Factor: One of the largest and coolest festivals in Southwest Mississippi.
Need To Know: The 2-day event takes place on October 18-19. Tickets vary depending on the pass, and children 10 and under are free.
The skies will be filled with dozens of colorful balloons at the 39th annual Natchez Balloon Festival. A popular fall attraction, there will be plenty of family-friendly adventures waiting for you here. From live music to a magical carnival with rides and games to arts and crafts vendors to a blazing firework show, and more, you don’t want to miss this spectacular event. If you ask us, flying over the skies of Mississippi in a hot air balloon is one of the coolest things you’ll do all year.
Wow Factor: This is a historical event with 2 festivals - the Carrollton Pilgrimage and the Pioneer Day Festival.
Need To Know: The festivals take place on October 4 and 5. Admission is free, donations are welcomed, and there is a cost for various attractions.
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The town of Carrollton will be hosting its annual Pioneer Day Festival. What we love most about this Mississippi fall festival is that it's educational as well as it’s a fun event for the history lover in all of us. You’ll get to step back in time to yesteryear, glimpsing how our ancestors once lived. Moreover, you can tour the historical buildings of the town, browse or shop for handmade arts and crafts, listen to live music, and eat delicious food. It’s a unique autumn festival in Mississippi that you should experience at least once.
Wow Factor: Largest festival in Bolivar County featuring a BBQ competition.
Need To Know: The festivals take place on October 11 and 12. Admission is free, but there is a cost for various events.
Mark your calendars for one of the Delta’s favorite fall festivals, Oktoberfest in Cleveland MS. Foodies, music lovers, beer drinkers, arts and crafts enthusiasts, and the kiddos will love this event. Moreover, the Delta BBQ Brawl contest will also be featured at the festival and it’s guaranteed to be mouthwatering good. Be sure to explore the museums, restaurants, and historical sites in the charming town of Cleveland. We guarantee that you won’t regret adding this event to your list of fall activities this year.
Free & Cheap Mississippi Fall Activities
We don’t want you to miss out on all the autumn fun because prices of everything have skyrocketed. So, here are some destinations that are arguably the best places to visit in Mississippi in the fall. Not only are these attractions free and in some cases cheap, but they’re also guaranteed to be great for the entire family. You might also want to plan a fun road trip to see some of these gorgeous places this fall.
Wow Factor: The most unique Mississippi state park with waterfalls and massive rock formations.
Need To Know: There is a $4 entrance fee for day use at the park.
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If there is one state park to visit in Mississippi during the fall, it should be Tishomingo State Park. Located at the foothills of the Appalachians, the park transforms into a wonderland during fall where you can hike and marvel at the beautiful autumn scenery. Besides the lovely fall vistas, you can chase waterfalls and admire the towering rock formations that are unique to the Magnolia State. Be sure to hike the Bear Creek Outcropping Trail as it leads to some incredible rewards. You’ll want to download AllTrails for easy navigation on this 4-mile trek.
Wow Factor: There is a charming covered bridge at this park and it's decoarated with fall decor.
Need To Know: There is a soccer and baseball field, a lake, and no entrance fee.
Chances are, if you don’t live near Tupelo, you have never heard of Ballard Park, but this quaint community park is a favorite spot for locals in the fall. If you want to spend a day at a lesser-known destination in Mississippi, then pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at the park. It comes alive during this time of year as you’ll find charming seasonal decorations inside the park. Best of all, there is a charming, covered bridge there where you can create new fall memories. This is a cheap fall activity in Mississippi that the entire family can enjoy.
Wow Factor: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and it's one of the first lighthouses in the South.
Need To Know: Tours cost $5 for adults and $2 for kids under 12.
There are only a handful of lighthouses in Mississippi, and Biloxi Lighthouse is the most popular for visitors and locals alike. If you have never visited this historical spot, then add it to your list this fall. History buffs, you’ll be delighted to know that you can climb to the top of this 65-foot iconic tower. Not only can you see the lighthouse on your day trip, but you’ll also get to explore the other amenities in Biloxi. Check out the Biloxi Train Tour to see the historical buildings in the town, and if it’s not too cold, we recommend strolling along the scenic beach. You can have an entire day of fun that won’t cost a fortune.
Wow Factor: There are lots of hidden gems to see fall foliage in Mississippi.
Need To Know: Be sure to plan your trip in mid-October at the peak of the season.
One of the cheapest ways to enjoy the fall in Mississippi is to literally hop in the car and drive. While cruising the countryside, you’re going to discover incredible hidden gems along the way. There are overlooks, open fields, parks, natural areas, and more that light up with autumn colors during the season. So, this season gas up the car, and take a gorgeous fall road trip to see the best of Mississippi like you've never before.
What do you think about our list of things to do in Mississippi this fall? Which one will you add to your list this year? Or tell us your plans for the coming season, we’d love to hear from you!
Looking for a fun way to spend the day? I know I always am! Searching for the perfect family outing? Well, look no further! There are tons of festivals in Mississippi throughout the year, all of which have something special to offer. Check out the list below to make sure you don’t miss out on any upcoming festivals near me in Mississippi.
A tradition since 1929, this is one of the oldest festivals in Mississippi. The annual festival marks the beginning of the fishing season for shrimp fishermen, and originally began as a way to celebrate one of the biggest industries on the Gulf Coast. The Blessing of the Fleet is kicked off with a blessing, which is meant to invoke a safe and prosperous fishing season, and has grown to include several other events, including a seafood cook-off, street party, Shrimp Queen pageant, and the coronation of a Shrimp King and Queen.
Being that Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo, it should come as no surprise that the city hosts an Elvis Festival in his honor. The yearly celebration includes performances by regional, national, and local artists, a Sunday Gospel Concert, and a Tribute Artist Contest which leads to the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest. The fun doesn’t end with great music as the festival also includes a number of food vendors, carnival rides, a pet parade, a beauty pageant, a 5k run, disc golf, exhibits, and much more. It is one of the most highly anticipated Mississippi festivals every year.
Pretty much every Mississippian has heard of the slugburger, but many may not know that there is actually a Slugburger Festival to honor this culinary delight. For over 20 years, crowds have gathered and the festival has grown to include live entertainment, carnival rides, the Slug market, the Slugburger Pageant, and, of course, the Major League World Slugburger Eating Competition. Be sure to visit one of the best upcoming festivals near me in Mississippi.
4. Mississippi Delta Blues and Heritage Festival, Greenville
Considered one of the nation’s most important musical events, the Mississippi Delta Blues and Heritage Festival is meant to celebrate the state’s contributions to the world of music. In addition to a number of live musical performances, the event also includes a street festival, family day, and contests.
If you’re a car enthusiast, then this event is for you! Attracting people from all over the country as well as Canada and Sweden, Cruisin’ the Coast was started as a way to celebrate antique, classic, and hot rod vehicles. The festival has grown tremendously since beginning in 1996. The first year included 374 cars and by 2014, it grew to over 7,000! While the cars are the festival’s biggest attraction, Cruisin’ the Coast also features a number of vendors as well as live musical performances. It's one of those Mississippi festivals you do not want to miss!
For the past 16 years, the Market Street Festival has been included in the Southeast Tourism Society’s list of top events in the state. Attracting about 40,000 people on an annual basis, this is one of the most can't-miss festivals around! It goes for two days and offers well over 200 arts, crafts, and food vendors, musical entertainment, and numerous activities for the entire family.
Pecans are a big deal here in Mississippi, so why not celebrate the delicious nut with the three-day-long Pecan Festival? Held annually in September, the cool fall weather combined with the rich canopy provided by the pecan orchard creates the perfect setting for a day of outdoor fun. The family-oriented event includes a bake-off, beauty pageant, contests, a mule pull, over 250 regional vendors, and live Bluegrass and Gospel music.
While the Mississippi Book Festival was established in 2013, the first festival wasn’t held until a few years later. And with over 3,700 attendees, it’s safe to say it was a success! The festival included author readings and signings, live music, and vendors. In addition to all of the activities at the Capitol, the festival also includes several Library of Congress and Mississippi Library Commission presentations.
Held in April of each year as a way to kick off spring, the Tunica Rivergate Festival is perfect for the entire family. From blues and country to Bluegrass and southern rock, musical entertainment is definitely not lacking. And while enjoying the great music, visitors can visit numerous vendor booths as well as indulge on delicious food including some of the best barbecue in the south and a local favorite, crawfish. Make sure you get to one of the best festivals in Mississippi.
This one is a really unique upcoming festival near me in Mississippi. Held twice a year, the Natchez Pilgrimage offers visitors the chance to view antebellum mansions, most of which are private residences that are closed the remainder of the year. Tours are given by costumed guides who are either family friends or descendants of the original owners. The homes are complete with furnishings of yesteryear along with period pieces including silver, porcelain, tools, documents, and diaries, making for quite an unforgettable experience. Aside from touring homes, attendees can also enjoy musical entertainment, dancing, the Historic Natchez Pageant, and more.
Established in 2011, the Leland Frogfest is held in October as a way to pay tribute to famed Muppets creator, Jim Henson. Enjoyed by adults and children alike, Frogfest includes carnival games and prizes, train rides, a bounce house, and hands-on activities for children of all ages – all of which is free! In addition to the numerous activities, visitors can spend the day shopping at on-site vendor booths as well as participate in the chili cook-off. It is one of my favorite Mississippi festivals.
Music and mullets; does it get any better? For over 20 years, the city of Gautier has been combining the two. The result? The The Gautier Mullet and Music Fest, one of the most interesting festivals in Mississippi! Perfect for the entire family, the two-day event offers a number of free activities including live entertainment, a kid’s area, a and classic car and motorcycle show as well as a number of vendor booths, making for a great day of fun and shopping.
The state has so many festivals, listing all of them would be nearly impossible! What do you think are the best festivals in Mississippi? Tell us in the comments below!
Are you doing a road trip to see some Mississippi festivals? Make sure you have all the best road trip snacks!
