See and Do: Summer in Jxn
From cultural celebrations to sporting events and family-friendly outings, the City With Soul offers a diverse range of summer experiences.
Our editors have curated a list to help you plan your season!
May
Splash And Bubbles: Dive In, Lend A Fin!
May 20 - September 4 | Closed: May 29 & July 4
If you're looking for a captivating and educational experience for your children this summer, be sure to visit "Splash and Bubbles: Dive In, Lend a Fin!" at Mississippi Children’s Museum. This engaging exhibit invites young minds to explore the fascinating world of marine biology, ocean science, marine conservation, and different ocean ecosystems alongside the lovable characters from the hit PBS Kids TV show, Splash and Bubbles.
June
601JXN Day
June 1-4
601JXN Day is the collective celebration of our capital city combining a day, or in this case, a weekend, of new events with existing events, promoting specials, and connecting the people that live, work, and play in the City With Soul. My City site activations - Offbeat and Fondren Live (Thursday), and First Friday on Farish, Magnolia Sunset Markets and Jxn Run Club [Hal & Mal's] (Friday) will include giveaways and My City merch sales.
Cathead Jam
June 2-3
After a three-year hiatus, Cathead Jam returns for a weekend of headliners and up-and-coming artists to Cathead Distillery. Aside from rocking out to the likes of the Flaming Lips, Shakey Graves, and Cimafunk, your ticket also goes towards the work of the Dreamnote Foundation, founded as the nonprofit owner of Cathead Jam, which pledges to improve access to music and art throughout Mississippi and underserved communities.
Voices of Courage and Justice Festivities
June 6-12
The weeklong Voices of Courage and Justice Festivities commemorating 60 years since the assassination of Medgar Evers will be held at the Jackson Convention Complex, Two Mississippi Museums, Smith-Robertson Museum, and Millsaps College. Myrlie Evers will be honored with a lifetime achievement award celebrating her storied career, and other dignitaries will be bestowed with the inaugural MMEI Voices of Courage and Justice Award.
Mississippi Pickle Fest
June 10 @ 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Kick off your summer with a tangy and exciting event at the Mississippi Ag Museum - the Mississippi Pickle Fest! On Saturday, June 10, families and pickle lovers can come together for a day of fermented fun. The outdoor festival promises a delightful experience for all ages, featuring music, games, contests, vendors, and, of course, plenty of pickles and pickle-themed foods and drinks. This event takes place rain or shine!
USAIBC
June 10-24
The world’s best dancers take the stage at Thalia Mara Hall, as the official international ballet competition for the United States convenes in Jackson, Mississippi. Two divisions (junior, ages 14-18, and senior, ages 19-28) compete for the gold, silver and bronze medals as well as cash prizes and contracts. Come for a day, a round, or two full weeks of competition performances, special programs and exciting events.
Juneteenth in Jackson
June 15-17
June marks a significant historical event - Juneteenth. Join the vibrant celebration of African American freedom and heritage with events across the city. These event will have opportunities to explore and pay tribute to the rich history and culture of the Black community and Juneteenth through music, food, arts, and cultural displays.
July
Farm Bureau 4th Of July Watermelon Classic 5K Run/Walk
July 4 | Registration closes July 3
Celebrate America's Independence Day and promote health and wellness in Mississippi by participating in the Farm Bureau 4th Of July Watermelon Classic 5K Run/Walk. Lace-up your running shoes and head to the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum to run or walk alongside fellow fitness enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned runner or simply looking for a fun activity for the whole family, this event is an excellent way to get outside and get active while enjoying the holiday.
Southeastern Rodeo Association Black Rodeo
July 15
The Southeastern Rodeo Association Black Rodeo will be held Saturday, July 15, 2023, at the Mississippi Coliseum and will feature professional cowboys performing phenomenal feats of skill as they compete for $10,500 in prize money.
Keith Killebrew Memorial Rodeo featuring Chapel Hart
July 29
The Keath Killebrew Memorial Rodeo at the Mississippi Coliseum will feature rodeo favorites like bull riding, bareback bronc, barrel racing, bullfighting and more. In addition, country music sensations and Mississippi natives Chapel Hart will perform as part of the festivities on opening night, while Drake Milligan will entertain on the closing night. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Keath Killebrew Charisma Award Fund.
Mississippi Ag And Outdoor Expo
July 28-30
Outdoor enthusiasts will find a treasure trove of gear and knowledge at the “Fall Edition” of the Mississippi Ag And Outdoor Expo held at the Mississippi Fairgrounds. Take a deep dive into the world of hunting, fishing, agriculture, and recreation at the state’s largest display for the outdoors while enjoying live demonstrations and seminars by experts over the three-day weekend event.
August
Mississippi Book Festival
August 19
For book lovers and literary enthusiasts, the Mississippi Book Festival is a summer highlight not to be missed. Held on and around the grounds of the Mississippi State Capitol in downtown Jackson, this festival brings together renowned authors like Lois Lowry, Ann Patchett, and Richard Ford, publishers, and bookworms from across the country for captivating panel discussions, book signings, and literary workshops. Plus, shop from some of Mississippi’s and the Southeast’s most beloved bookstores in Authors Alley.
