The Most Epic Annual Events in Mississippi: Top 10 Must-Experience Festivals (Currently Open)
If there’s one thing Mississippi knows how to do, it’s throw a celebration that feels like home. The Magnolia State’s annual festivals combine Southern charm, deep-rooted traditions, and unforgettable music and food in a way that’s entirely its own. From blues and barbecue to hot air balloons and catfish, these events are more than just dates on a calendar—they’re living testaments to Mississippi’s vibrant culture.
Whether you’re a lifelong local or an adventurous traveler exploring the South, this list of Mississippi’s top 10 must-experience festivals will guide you through the state’s most epic annual events, each one filled with the warm hospitality and spirited fun that defines the state.
Natchez Balloon Festival – Soaring Above the Mighty Mississippi
Where: Natchez, Mississippi
When: October
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mississippi River bluffs, the Natchez Balloon Festival is one of the state’s most visually stunning events. Each year, colorful hot air balloons fill the sky as live music and Southern food fill the streets below.
Festival-goers can enjoy:
Balloon races and evening balloon glows that light up the skyline.
Local music acts performing everything from blues to country.
Family-friendly activities, food trucks, and craft vendors scattered throughout downtown Natchez.
It’s an experience that captures both the romance and adventure of Mississippi. Watching dozens of balloons drift over the river at sunset is truly unforgettable—a perfect way to celebrate the fall season.
Delta Blues & Heritage Festival – The Soul of the Delta
Where: Greenville, Mississippi
When: September
As the oldest blues festival in the nation, the Delta Blues & Heritage Festival in Greenville stands as a tribute to the roots of America’s most influential music genre. Founded in 1977, this event celebrates the heart and history of the blues where it all began—the Mississippi Delta.
Visitors can expect:
Performances by legendary and up-and-coming blues artists.
Local food vendors serving up catfish, barbecue, and Delta tamales.
Cultural exhibits highlighting Mississippi’s deep musical heritage.
This festival doesn’t just entertain—it educates and inspires. For anyone passionate about authentic American music, this is a pilgrimage-worthy experience.
Mississippi State Fair – Classic Fun and Southern Flavor
Where: Jackson, Mississippi
When: October
When fall rolls around, all roads lead to Jackson for the Mississippi State Fair, one of the South’s biggest and most anticipated annual events. The fair perfectly blends nostalgia, excitement, and community spirit.
The fairgrounds come alive with:
Thrilling carnival rides and midway games.
Livestock shows, rodeos, and agricultural exhibits.
Concerts and performances by local and national artists.
And, of course, plenty of deep-fried Southern delicacies—think fried Oreos, funnel cakes, and corn dogs.
It’s a celebration that unites families, farmers, and foodies alike, creating memories that last well beyond the fair’s 10-day run.
Neshoba County Fair – Mississippi’s Giant House Party
Where: Philadelphia, Mississippi
When: Late July – Early August
Dubbed “Mississippi’s Giant House Party,” the Neshoba County Fair is not your average county fair—it’s an entire cultural experience. Families from across the state come together in brightly painted cabins that line the fairgrounds, creating a colorful neighborhood that lasts for a week.
The event features:
Horse races on the historic fairgrounds track.
Political speeches, a unique Mississippi tradition that attracts major state and national figures.
Carnival rides, concerts, and contests.
Endless Southern food, laughter, and community pride.
It’s one of the most distinct events in America, where tradition meets celebration in the most authentic Mississippi way possible.
Crawfish Music Festival – Gulf Coast Flavor and Fun
Where: Biloxi, Mississippi
When: April
For those who love great seafood, live music, and warm weather, the Crawfish Music Festival in Biloxi is the ultimate coastal celebration. Held at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum, this multi-day event combines Gulf Coast culture with toe-tapping entertainment.
Festival highlights include:
Thousands of pounds of fresh crawfish, boiled to perfection.
National and regional music acts, spanning country, rock, and Cajun styles.
Carnival rides, games, and contests like the famous crawfish-eating competition.
With the ocean breeze, savory spice, and upbeat atmosphere, the Crawfish Music Festival is a can’t-miss kickoff to springtime on the coast.
Gumbo Festival – A Taste of the Coast in Bay St. Louis
Where: Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
When: November
The Gumbo Festival is where food, music, and friendly competition come together to celebrate one of the South’s most beloved dishes. This coastal culinary event brings together professional chefs and amateur cooks who battle for the title of “Best Gumbo on the Coast.”
Visitors can enjoy:
Sampling dozens of unique gumbo recipes.
Live local music and coastal artisans selling handmade crafts.
A family-friendly environment filled with Southern charm.
With the scent of seafood and spices in the air, the Gumbo Festival is the perfect way to experience Mississippi’s Gulf Coast flavor in every bite.
Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival – Creativity on the Coast
Where: Ocean Springs, Mississippi
When: November
The Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival is Mississippi’s largest fine arts festival, drawing over 150,000 visitors each year to the charming streets of Ocean Springs. Named after a local master potter, this event celebrates the state’s thriving creative community.
What makes it special:
More than 400 artists and craftsmen showcasing everything from pottery to photography.
Live music stages and food vendors serving local favorites.
A vibrant, walkable setting filled with coastal hospitality and artistry.
The festival perfectly blends Southern charm with a contemporary arts scene, making Ocean Springs a must-visit destination for art lovers and families alike.
Tupelo Elvis Festival – Honoring the King of Rock ’n’ Roll
Where: Tupelo, Mississippi
When: June
In Elvis Presley’s hometown, the Tupelo Elvis Festival is an annual celebration that draws fans from around the world. It’s not just a tribute—it’s a full-blown party dedicated to the King’s music, style, and legacy.
Festival features include:
Elvis tribute artist competitions that are among the best in the world.
Live concerts, parades, and food vendors throughout downtown Tupelo.
Guided tours of the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum.
The Tupelo Elvis Festival captures the timeless magic of rock ’n’ roll and gives visitors a heartfelt glimpse into the roots of one of music’s greatest icons.
Mississippi Delta Hot Tamale Festival – A Tasty Tradition in Greenville
Where: Greenville, Mississippi
When: October
The Mississippi Delta Hot Tamale Festival celebrates one of the region’s most unexpected and beloved culinary traditions. Tamales have deep roots in the Delta, blending Mexican, African American, and Southern influences into a dish that’s as unique as Mississippi itself.
The festival includes:
Cooking contests and tamale tastings from local vendors.
Live blues performances, reflecting the area’s musical soul.
A parade, 5K run, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
This event embodies everything Mississippi stands for—flavor, diversity, and community. You’ll leave full, happy, and humming a tune from one of the blues bands on stage.
Mississippi Book Festival – The “Literary Lawn Party” in Jackson
Where: Jackson, Mississippi
When: August
Known as the “Literary Lawn Party,” the Mississippi Book Festival is one of the state’s most inspiring and educational gatherings. Held at the Mississippi State Capitol, this event celebrates storytelling, creativity, and the power of words.
Attendees can experience:
Panels and signings with award-winning authors and poets.
Book sales, children’s activities, and local food vendors.
A welcoming environment that encourages discussion and discovery.
For readers and writers alike, the Mississippi Book Festival proves that the state’s artistic heart beats just as strong in its literature as in its music and food.
Bonus Highlight: Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival – A Coastal Christmas Spectacle
Where: Gulfport, Mississippi
When: November–December
When winter arrives, Gulfport Harbor Lights transforms the Gulf Coast into a glowing wonderland. With millions of twinkling lights, holiday displays, and festive music, it’s one of the largest Christmas light shows in the South.
Families can enjoy:
Train rides through the light displays.
Visits with Santa Claus and seasonal treats.
Rides, shops, and photo opportunities for kids of all ages.
It’s a heartwarming reminder that Mississippi knows how to celebrate all year long — from summer music festivals to dazzling holiday traditions.
Conclusion: Experience Mississippi’s Spirit Through Its Festivals
Mississippi’s annual festivals are more than just events—they’re windows into the heart and soul of the Magnolia State. Each celebration tells a story of resilience, creativity, and community. From the soulful blues of Greenville to the soaring balloons over Natchez, every corner of the state offers something to discover, taste, and remember.
So whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full-on cultural adventure, make room in your calendar for these epic Mississippi festivals. Bring your appetite, your camera, and your dancing shoes—because no one does celebration quite like Mississippi.