From time-honored traditions and longtime community favorites to new festivities, Jackson comes alive throughout December. Enjoy festive lights, live performances, family fun, community gatherings and memorable holiday experiences across the Capital City. Explore the events below and make this holiday season one to remember.

Capital City Lights

Saturday December 5 | Downtown Jackson

Celebrate the season at Capital City Lights, a downtown holiday celebration bringing together some of Jackson’s most beloved traditions for one festive day. Visit Jackson, Downtown Jackson Partners, the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, and the City of Jackson join forces to create a coordinated holiday experience throughout downtown Jackson.

From the City of Jackson Holiday Parade and Christmas by Candlelight Tours to holiday festivities in Smith Park and the City of Jackson Tree Lighting Ceremony, Capital City Lights offers a full day of holiday activities, entertainment, lights, history and community spirit.

The Day at a Glance

TimeEvent
3:30–5:30 PMCity of Jackson Christmas Parade
5–8 PMHistoric downtown churches open
5–8 PMChristmas by Candlelight
6–6:30 PMCity of Jackson Tree Lighting Ceremony

5-8 PM

Capital City Lights festival at Smith Park

City of Jackson Christmas Parade
Saturday December 5 | Downtown Jackson | 3:30-5:30 PM

Kick off Capital City Lights as the City of Jackson’s annual parade rolls through downtown.

Christmas by Candlelight
Saturday December 5 | Downtown Jackson | 5-8 PM

Travel between seven downtown stops for crafts, treats, choral music and holiday cheer at some of Jackson’s most historic places.

TOUR STOPS

Two Mississippi Museums

  • Children’s crafts
  • Christmas treats
  • Choral performances at 5:30 and 6:30 PM
  • String trio performance
  • Mississippi Museum Store sale
  • The Possum Ridge exhibit will be open

Old Capitol Museum

  • Christmas crafts
  • Cookies and milk
  • Choral performances at 5:30 and 6:30 PM featuring the Performing Arts Class from McWillie Elementary
  • Typewriter station for letters to Santa

Union Station

A Choir Showcase featuring local high school choirs singing Christmas favorites in the Concourse, with hot chocolate, hot apple cider and cookies.

Historic Downtown Churches (open 4–8 PM)

  • Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle: A music program in the sanctuary and tours of the historic cathedral with Father Nick
  • Galloway United Methodist Church: A live nativity featuring Frank the Camel, children’s activities and a bluegrass band, with free cookies and hot chocolate in the courtyard
  • First Baptist Church of Jackson: The sights and sounds of Christmas from the worship ministry in a decorated sanctuary
  • Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle: If you've never visited, don't miss this glimpse of an architectural wonder downtown!

Capital City Lights
Saturday December 5 | Smith Park | 5-8 PM

Celebrate in the heart of downtown with horse and carriage rides and a visit with Soul Santa at the Smith Park gazebo.

Presented by Community Bank, with support from Pruet Companies.

More Info

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