We are delighted to welcome you to the Mississippi Book Festival and all of the events and things to do, eat and experience around it!
Take time to experience Jackson beyond the festival grounds. Explore our rich literary and civil rights history, visit our museums and cultural attractions and enjoy the distinctive flavors of one of the South’s most celebrated culinary destinations. This guide was created to help you make the most of your weekend.
Known as Mississippi’s “Literary Lawn Party,” the Mississippi Book Festival brings readers and writers together for an unforgettable celebration of books. The 2026 festival will take place Saturday, September 26, from 9 AM–5 PM at the historic Mississippi State Capitol and surrounding grounds.
The free, daylong event features author conversations, panel discussions, book signings, booksellers, Capitol tours, food and activities for readers of all ages.
Fairview Inn - Belhaven
Housed in a National Register of Historic Places mansion in the Belhaven neighborhood, the Fairview Inn offers 18 boutique guest rooms and suites just blocks from downtown's museums and galleries. Guests can unwind at the on-site Library Lounge restaurant – which features cocktails named for literary giants like Eudora Welty – or NomiSpa, both tucked within the Inn's historic grounds and gardens.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Jackson Fondren Medical District - Fondren
Located in the Fondren Medical District, Homewood Suites offers all-suite accommodations with in-room kitchens, an indoor pool and complimentary hot breakfast, all with some of the cities best shopping and dining right outside the front door. Free parking and a fitness center round out the amenities for travelers who want extra space during their stay.
The Old Capitol Inn - Downtown
The Old Capitol Inn is a 24-room boutique hotel in downtown Jackson, built around a New Orleans-inspired courtyard with a fountain and gardens, set within walking distance of the Two Mississippi Museums. Each guest room includes a private bedroom and bath, and mornings start with a full Southern breakfast for two.
The Orchid Bed & Breakfast - Belhaven Heights
The Orchid is a premier Black-owned bed and breakfast with 11 sleeping rooms, each named for a woman who made a lasting impact on her community. It sits within walking distance of the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the Smith Robertson Museum, and features Black art and artisans throughout.
Residence Inn by Marriott Jackson, The District at Eastover - LeFleur East
This all-suite hotel offers fully equipped kitchens, complimentary hot breakfast and an outdoor pool. Located in The District at Eastover, it's a short drive from the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and Natchez Trace Parkway.
The Westin Jackson - Downtown - SOLD OUT
The Westin Jackson is a downtown wellness-focused hotel within walking distance of the Mississippi Museum of Art, Thalia Mara Hall and MS Book Festival grounds. Guests can dine at Estelle Southern Table, unwind at Soul Spa, or use the 24-hour fitness studio and indoor pool.
Sep 24, 2026
F.D. Hall Music Center, Jackson State University
West Jackson
1400 John R. Lynch Street
Jackson, MS 39217
60th Anniversary of Jubilee1400 John R. Lynch Street
Jackson, MS 39217
Sep 25, 2026
Jackson Convention Complex Theatre
105 E Pascagoula St
Jackson, MS 39201
Late Night with Rita Brent (LIVE RECORDING)105 E Pascagoula St
Jackson, MS 39201
Sep 26, 2026
Smith Park
Downtown
At West, Yazoo, Congress and Amite Streets
Jackson, MS 39201
Frank 'n Stein Biergarten and Book DropAt West, Yazoo, Congress and Amite Streets
Jackson, MS 39201
Jackson's literary landmarks are scattered across the city — author statues, sculptures, indie bookstores, literary-themed restaurants, and murals honoring the writers who shaped this place.
JXN Info + Merchandise
JXN Welcome Center
From tees to hoodies, caps, mugs, postcards, blankets and art, the JXN Welcome Center is your one stop for JXN, Mississippi merch.
24 Hours in Jackson MS
Only here for a hot minute? Worry not. There’s plenty you can pack into a one-day Jackson itinerary.
48 Hours in Jackson MS
Spending a couple of days in the City With Soul? Jackson has no shortage of noteworthy food, music, and cultural destinations.
72 Hours in Jackson, MS
Have a long weekend in the City With Soul? Make sure to check out these local favorites while you're in town!
Hands down, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is your can't-miss, must see in the City With Soul.
Grab breakfast at Brent's Drugs or lunch at The Mayflower Cafe. Spend an hour or two at the MS Civil Rights Museum before swinging by the Eudora Welty House & Garden in Belhaven. Even if you only have time for the free Visitor's Center, it's worth your stop. Lastly, no author's trip to Jackson is complete without a stop at Lemuria Books, just north of the bustling Downtown Fondren Historic Business District (where you'd by crazy not to swing by Campbell's Bakery and grab an iced tea cake before you head there).
We are honored to have you in Jackson and hope your visit is filled with meaningful conversations, memorable meals and plenty of City With Soul hospitality.
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