Experience Mississippi’s vibrant fall festivals, where cultural heritage, music, and local flavors come together in a celebration of the season.
As the crisp air of autumn sweeps through the Magnolia State, Mississippi comes alive with a series of fall festivals that celebrate its rich cultural heritage, culinary traditions, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re looking to savor local delicacies, explore historic sites, or enjoy live music under the stars, Mississippi’s fall festivals offer something for everyone.
These seven events invite you to immerse yourself in the unique charm of the South while enjoying the vibrant festivities that mark the season.
Mississippi State Fair
Location: Jackson, MS
Date: October 3-14, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 600,000
Theme: Carnival Rides, Livestock Shows & Southern Tradition
The Mississippi State Fair in Jackson is a longstanding tradition that draws visitors from across the state and beyond. This two-week event offers something for everyone, from thrilling carnival rides and games to agricultural exhibits and livestock shows. The fair’s entertainment lineup features concerts by top country and rock acts, as well as local favorites like the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. In 2023, the fair’s livestock show highlighted the state’s best young farmers, with 4-H Club member Emily Johnson winning the Grand Champion award for her prize Hereford steer. Visitors can also indulge in classic fair foods, such as funnel cakes, corn dogs, and the ever-popular fried catfish.
Delta Hot Tamale Festival
Location: Greenville, MS
Date: October 18-20, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 10,000
Theme: Delta Cuisine & Cultural Heritage
The Delta Hot Tamale Festival is a celebration of one of Mississippi’s most beloved culinary traditions. Held in downtown Greenville, this festival draws tamale lovers from near and far to sample the best hot tamales the Delta has to offer. In 2023, the cooking contest saw local chef Carlos White take home the top prize for his spicy, slow-cooked beef tamales. The festival also features a literary dinner, where notable Southern authors like Jesmyn Ward pair with local chefs to create a unique dining experience. Live music is a key part of the event, with performances from blues legends like Bobby Rush and local bands keeping the streets alive with rhythm.
Mitchell Farms Pumpkin Patch & Maze
Location: Collins, MS
Date: September 28 – November 3, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 30,000
Theme: Family Fun & Farm Heritage
Mitchell Farms in Collins is a family favorite during the fall season, offering a range of activities that celebrate the harvest. Visitors can pick their own pumpkins from the patch, navigate the sprawling corn maze, and take a scenic hayride through the farm. The farm also features a peanut farm tour, where guests can learn about the peanut-growing process and enjoy roasted peanuts fresh from the fields. In 2023, the farm’s giant pumpkin contest crowned a 1,200-pound behemoth as the winner, grown by local farmer Jim Thompson. Children can enjoy the petting zoo, where they can meet friendly goats, pigs, and even llamas, making it a perfect outing for families.
Natchez Balloon Festival
Location: Natchez, MS
Date: October 18-20, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 15,000
Theme: Hot Air Balloons & Live Music
The Natchez Balloon Festival is one of Mississippi’s most visually stunning events, lighting up the sky with vibrant hot air balloons over the Mississippi River. Visitors can watch the balloons launch at dawn and enjoy the magical balloon glows in the evening. The festival also features live music from bands like Bishop Gunn and country star Travis Tritt, adding to the festive atmosphere. In 2023, the festival’s balloon race was won by pilot Chris Good, who outmaneuvered the competition in a thrilling aerial contest. The event also includes arts and crafts vendors, food stalls offering Southern favorites, and a kids’ zone with games and activities.
Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival
Location: Ocean Springs, MS
Date: November 2-3, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 150,000
Theme: Fine Arts & Coastal Culture
The Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival is Mississippi’s largest fine arts festival, held annually in the charming coastal town of Ocean Springs. Over 400 artists and craftspeople from across the country gather to showcase their work, ranging from pottery and paintings to jewelry and textiles. The festival also features live demonstrations of traditional crafts like glassblowing and woodworking. In 2023, local artist Andrew Bucci received the Best of Show award for his stunning abstract paintings inspired by the Mississippi landscape. Visitors can also enjoy live music from local bands, delicious seafood from coastal vendors, and a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the creativity and culture of the Gulf Coast.
Canton Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show
Location: Canton, MS
Date: October 10, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 40,000
Theme: Arts, Crafts & Historic Charm
The Canton Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show is a beloved tradition in the historic town of Canton, where over 1,000 vendors gather to sell their handmade goods. From unique jewelry and home décor to gourmet foods and clothing, there’s something for everyone at this sprawling market. The event takes place in the town square, surrounded by beautiful antebellum homes and historic buildings, adding to the charm of the experience. In 2023, the show’s Best Vendor award went to local woodworker John Smith, whose handcrafted furniture pieces drew rave reviews from shoppers. The market also features live music, food vendors, and a festive atmosphere that makes it one of the highlights of the Mississippi fall season.
Cruisin’ the Coast
Location: Mississippi Gulf Coast
Date: October 6-13, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 40,000
Theme: Classic Cars & Coastal Celebration
Cruisin’ the Coast is a car enthusiast’s dream, transforming the Mississippi Gulf Coast into a week-long celebration of vintage and classic automobiles. With over 8,000 cars participating, this event is known as “America’s Largest Block Party,” drawing visitors from across the country. The event spans multiple cities along the coast, including Biloxi, Gulfport, and Ocean Springs, with car shows, parades, and flame-throwing contests adding to the excitement. In 2023, the Best in Show award went to a pristine 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, owned by Bill Turner of Biloxi. Alongside the car events, visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and a variety of entertainment options, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves cars and coastal culture.
Planning Your Trip to the Festival
Mississippi’s fall festivals provide the perfect opportunity to explore the state’s diverse regions and enjoy its rich cultural heritage. To make the most of your visit, consider extending your stay by booking a vacation rental through Lake.com. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant streets of Jackson during the State Fair, the scenic beauty of Natchez during the Balloon Festival, or the coastal charm of Ocean Springs for the Peter Anderson Festival, Lake.com offers a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. Imagine relaxing in a beachfront condo after a day at Cruisin’ the Coast, or unwinding in a cozy cabin after exploring the Delta Hot Tamale Festival. Booking a vacation rental ensures that you have a comfortable and convenient home base as you experience the best of Mississippi’s autumn festivities.
