Mississippi Gulf Coast King Festival
July 9-11 | OCEAN SPRINGS – Held at the historic Gulf Hills Hotel & Resort, this three-day celebration honors the legacy of Elvis Presley with performances by nationally recognized tribute artists, themed parties, memorabilia exhibits and special events. Activities begin each afternoon and continue into the evening, with ticket packages varying by performance and VIP experiences. The festival offers music fans a unique opportunity to celebrate Mississippi’s connection to the King of Rock and Roll while enjoying the charm of the Gulf Coast. For more information, visit https://www.coastalmississippi.com/events/mississippi-gulf-coast-king-festival/
Mississippi Pickle Fest
July 10-12 | RIDGELAND – Hosted at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum grounds, this increasingly popular festival celebrates all things pickle with tastings, food vendors, live entertainment, contests and family activities. Admission varies by day and activity package. Visitors can enjoy a quirky culinary experience while exploring one of the Jackson metro area’s premier shopping and dining destinations. For more information, visit https://www.exploreridgeland.com/events/
INFINITY Children’s Business Fair
July 11 | OCEAN SPRINGS – Held at the INFINITY Science Center, this family-friendly event showcases young entrepreneurs selling handmade products, inventions and creative services. Activities take place from noon to 2 p.m., with free admission. Families traveling along the Mississippi Gulf Coast can enjoy inspiring exhibits while also exploring nearby beaches, museums and coastal attractions. For more information, visit https://www.coastalmississippi.com/events/annual-events/
MSA Pines Region Songwriters Festival
July 17-18 | TUNICA RESORTS – Hosted at Gold Strike Casino Resort and surrounding venues, this festival features award-winning songwriters and performers representing country, blues and Americana music traditions. Ticket prices vary by venue and performance package. Visitors can experience intimate performances while enjoying the entertainment, gaming and resort amenities of the Mississippi Delta region. For more information, visit https://visitmississippi.org/events/
Open Black Rodeo
July 18 | JACKSON – Held at the Mississippi Coliseum, this exciting event celebrates African American rodeo heritage with professional competitions, family entertainment and cultural activities. Admission prices vary by seating section. Visitors experience an authentic Western sporting tradition while enjoying one of Mississippi’s most anticipated summer events. For more information, visit https://visitmississippi.org/events/
Neshoba County Fair
July 24-31 | PHILADELPHIA – Known as “Mississippi’s Giant House Party,” this legendary fair combines carnival rides, livestock exhibitions, political speeches, concerts, horse racing and community celebrations. Daily admission and event pricing vary. Visitors from throughout the South gather to experience one of America’s most unique state traditions and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Mississippi’s most famous fair. For more information, visit https://www.neshobacountyfair.org
Natchez Food & Wine Festival
July 24-25 | NATCHEZ – Set against the backdrop of one of the South’s most historic cities, this annual festival features gourmet dining experiences, wine tastings, chef demonstrations and special culinary events. Ticket prices vary by experience and venue. Visitors can combine exceptional food and wine experiences with tours of Natchez’s antebellum homes and Mississippi River views. For more information, visit https://visitnatchez.org/event/natchez-food-wine-festival-2026/
Summer Breeze Mississippi
July 24-25 | JACKSON – Hosted at the Mississippi Museum of Art, this upscale summer event combines fashion, culinary experiences, entertainment and philanthropy. Admission packages vary by event and experience level. Travelers seeking a sophisticated urban getaway can enjoy exclusive programming while supporting educational initiatives in Mississippi’s capital city. For more information, visit https://summerbreezems.com/
Mississippi Sports & Outdoors Show
July 24-26 | JACKSON – Held at the Mississippi Trade Mart and Coliseum, this statewide outdoor recreation showcase features hunting, fishing, boating, camping and outdoor lifestyle exhibits. Admission prices vary by age and package. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the latest equipment and experiences while planning future adventures throughout Mississippi and beyond. For more information, visit https://fairgrounds.mdac.ms.gov/mississippi-fairgrounds/upcoming-events/
Watermelon Carnival
August 1-2 | WATER VALLEY – This beloved small-town festival celebrates Mississippi’s agricultural heritage with parades, live music, arts and crafts vendors, family activities and, of course, plenty of watermelon. Many activities are free or low cost. Visitors experience authentic Southern hospitality while exploring one of north Mississippi’s most charming communities. For more information, visit https://whatsgoodproject.com/thoughts/a-fairly-comprehensive-list-of-2026-community-events-in-the-mississippi-deltaish-epef7-p76e2
Bikes, Blues, + Bayou
August 1 | GREENWOOD – This Delta-region celebration combines motorcycle culture, live blues music, local cuisine and community festivities in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. Admission to many events is free, with select activities requiring registration. Visitors can experience the birthplace of the blues while enjoying one of the state’s most distinctive summer gatherings. For more information, visit https://whatsgoodproject.com/thoughts/a-fairly-comprehensive-list-of-2026-community-events-in-the-mississippi-deltaish-epef7-p76e2
Fridays at the Fort Summer Concert Series
August 1 | OCEAN SPRINGS – Hosted at historic Fort Maurepas Park overlooking the Gulf, this summer concert series features regional musicians, food vendors and family-friendly entertainment in a scenic waterfront setting. Concerts are typically free and held during evening hours. Visitors can enjoy live music while experiencing one of Mississippi’s most picturesque coastal communities. For more information, visit https://oceanspringschamber.com/ocean-springs-chamber-main-street-annouces-2026-community-calendar-of-events/
Extended Weekend Getaways
