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• Welty at Home Virtual Book Club: Meanwhile there are Letters

  • Start
    26 Jan 2026
  •  
  • End
    13 Apr 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    10 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual

  Starting Monday, January 26, at noon CST, we will spend the next few months reading and discussing the correspondence of Eudora Welty and Ross Macdonald in Meanwhile There Are Letters, edited by Suzanne Marrs and Tom Nolan. We will have a two-week spring break on Mondays, March 9 and 16, and conclude this series on Monday, April 13.

  Discussions will be led by Suzanne Marrs — Welty’s close friend, biographer, and professor emerita of English at Millsaps College.

  If you received emails for previous Welty at Home book clubs, you are already registered for this free event and will begin receiving emails for this series weekly on Fridays, starting January 23. Otherwise, please email info@eudoraweltyhouse.com to request the sign-up link to receive the weekly emails with the Zoom links and recordings.

  
  

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• Best of Belhaven Concert · Center for the Arts

  • When
    27 Jan 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM
  • Location
    835 Riverside Dr, Jackson, MS 39202

  Celebrate the talent, creativity, and dedication of Belhaven University's music students at The Best of Belhaven concert. This annual showcase features outstanding soloists, chamber groups, and ensembles selected by the faculty for their exceptional performances throughout the semester. From classical masterworks to contemporary pieces, the program highlights the wide range and depth of Belhaven’s vibrant music community. Join us for an evening of excellence and inspiration as we applaud the very best our students have to offer.

  Free Admission, Doors Open at 6:30pm

  
  

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• Exhibition: Giants of the Ice Age MS Museum of Natural Science

  • Start
    31 Jan 2026
  • End
    23 Aug 2026
  • Location
    2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS 39202

  Experience 12 full-sized, scientifically accurate robotic Ice Age animals - breathing, roaring, gnashing teeth, turning their gaze, waving their tails, and bringing the Ice Age to life.  

  At this indoor and outdoor exhibit, you will: 

  • Stand beneath a towering Woolly Mammoth and face off with the ferocious Short-faced Bear 
  • Meet ancient icons like the Dire Wolf, Terror Bird, and Woolly Rhinoceros 
  • Marvel at the colossal Gigantopithecus, the largest primate to ever live 
  • Encounter the curious Macrauchenia, the armored Glyptodon, and the towering Irish Elk 
  • Discover how Ice Age creatures survived extreme conditions - and what led to their extinction 
  • Engage with colorful displays, videos, and hands-on learning stations that make ancient life come alive 

  Giants of the Ice Age blends science, artistry, and storytelling to show you how these incredible species existed in a frozen world filled with challenges and surprises. From tusks to talons, it’s a thrilling adventure through deep time you won’t forget! 

  "Thanks to the generosity of our donors and members, we’re able to help bring exciting, interactive exhibits like Giants of the Ice Age to Mississippi. Supporting the Museum through membership and giving means making a direct impact on families, education, and conservation right here at home,” says MMNSF Executive Director Susan Frazier. 

  
  

  
  

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• Art Party 2025: A Flora Fête · MS Museum of Art

  • When
    31 Jan 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM
  • Location
    380 South Lamar Street, Jackson MS 39201

  This year’s theme, A Floral Fête, promises to transform the Museum’s galleries into a blooming, living canvas. Florists, garden clubs, and creative tastemakers from across the state will design spectacular floral installations inspired by artworks in the Museum’s collection, bringing new life to the art and creative vitality to the season. Together, these vibrant installations will set the backdrop for a celebratory evening featuring live music, a silent auction filled with incredible works of art, and a curated selection of cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants.

  As a sponsor of ART PARTY, you’ll enjoy a range of exclusive benefits designed to make the evening more memorable. Patron-level sponsors and above are invited to a pre-event cocktail hour, featuring a live floral demonstration and a seasonal signature cocktail to kick off the evening in style. Connoisseur-level sponsors and above will also receive an invitation to the VIP Preview Party, which offers early access to the premier art auction and the opportunity to bid on an exclusively featured work of art. Beyond these exciting perks, your sponsorship directly supports a cause that extends far beyond one night.

  ART PARTY is the Mississippi Museum of Art’s only annual benefit, providing vital funds for the exhibitions, public programs, and educational initiatives that make the Museum a cultural cornerstone in our community. We hope you will support ART PARTY 2026 by becoming a sponsor. Together, we can help the Mississippi Museum of Art continue to connect Mississippi to the world, and the power of art to the power of community.

  For questions or to confirm your support, please contact:

  Isabel Randolph

  Associate Director of Individual Giving and Events

  partnerships@msmuseumart.org

  601-965-9927

  
  

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• Miss Dee’s Kitchen – Stage Play · Thalia Mara Hall

  • When
    31 Jan 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM
  • Location
    Thalia Mara Hall 255 East Pascagoula Street, Jackson, MS, United States

  Katrina Walker Presents: Miss Dee’s Kitchen. A theatrical, soulful, comedy stage play, with music and drama. Miss Dee’s the queen of the hood walking around in a house coat, smoking a cigarette and pushing her oxygen tank cussing anybody that say’s “Dee! You gone blow yo’ self up! And why you still got that house coat on this time of day?” Laughter is unstoppable as her front door is swinging to singing Pretty Tony The Pimp on Foot, played by Tony Grant from Tyler Perry’s “Love Thy Neighbor”. He is a walking PIMP carrying a “Big Stick” to run off the dogs as he head straight to the kitchen where liquor, lies, and secrets flow. Nosy Sugapie (Miss Dee’s mama) staggers in with her hound dog ears and everybody’s business. Sugapie knows the drama of how Attorney Frankie J killed his wife and whose beating the blood outta Bougie Blu. “Bigmama” gets put out! And, Sweet baby the ratchet, proud sidepiece comes with the meanest man on earth Crow, Blu’s husband.

  
  

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• Millsaps Dunbar Lecture with Travis Holloway · Millsaps College, McMullan Lecture Hall

  • When
    3 Feb 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM
  • Location
    McMullan Lecture Hall - Christian Center, CC 122, 1701 N State St, Jackson, MS 39210

  Dunbar Lecture with Travis Holloway - Millsaps College

  As we face down a new era of climate change, we require nothing short of a philosophy for the end of the world. In this provocative and timely talk, the philosopher and poet Travis Holloway will propose a counternarrative for human beings in the Anthropocene. Folding the history of gender, race, colonialism, and capital into geological time, Holloway will retell the story of human beings in the Anthropocene in order to direct us towards ways of life that are outside of it.

  Travis Holloway, M.F.A., Ph.D., teaches philosophy and cultural studies at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. He is the recipient of Pratt's 2023-2024 Research Recognition Award, and a former Goldwater Fellow in Poetry at NYU.

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• Galentine's & Palentine's Pressed Flower Workshop | Eudora Welty House & Garden

  • When
    12 Feb 2026
  •  
    5:00 PM
  • Location
    1119 Pinehurst Street Jackson, MS 39202

  Gather your gals and pals for a Pressed Flower Workshop at the Eudora Welty House & Garden on Thursday, February 13 at 5 p.m.

  Led by Rachel Lott, our special projects coordinator and flower pressing expert, this hands-on workshop will guide participants in decorating glass candle votives using pressed flowers from the Welty Garden. Rachel has mastered the skill of pressing flowers through her years of research and work at EWHG, and she’ll share some of her expert tips and tricks during the session.

  This workshop is part of our monthlong Friendship in Bloom program, celebrating the inspiring connections in Eudora Welty’s life through creative and engaging activities.

  Space is limited, the cost to attend is $30, and registration is required. All flowers and supplies will be provided, as well as wine and light refreshments.

  Register on the website or email info@eudoraweltyhouse.com for more information.

  
  

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• Dixie National Rodeo · MS State Fairgrounds

  • Start
    13 Feb 2026
  •  
  • End
    21 Feb 2026
  • Schedule
    9 sessions
  • Location
    1207 Mississippi Street, Jackson, MS 39202

  Step into the spirit of the West as we celebrate the 61st Annual Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo presented by Southern AgCredit! This year, we are especially proud to honor our nation as America commemorates its 250th anniversary. And what better way to pay tribute to this historic milestone than with America’s original sport – RODEO. This signature “Genuine Mississippi” tradition welcomes dedicated rodeo fans, hardworking 4-H and FFA members, dazzling rodeo queens, and visitors from all over to the Mississippi State Fairgrounds.

  General TICKET PRICES $25, $35, $40, $45, $50 (fees not included) Children under 18 months receive free admission.

  Tickets can be purchased at the Coliseum Ticket Office or online at Ticketmaster.com. Buy tickets in advance for best prices. Additional fees may apply for day of show.

  
  

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• Dance Ministry Ensemble Concert · Belhaven University Bitsy Irby Visual Art and Dance Center

  • Start
    13 Feb 2026
  •  
  • End
    14 Feb 2026
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Bitsy Irby Visual Art and Dance Center Studio Theatre

  Dance Ministry Ensemble Concert

  The Dance Ministry Ensemble and members of DOXA present a selection of original dances created by guest artists and dance faculty aimed to encourage and inspire the spirit of all who attend.

  General Admission $10, Seniors/Students $5. Complimentary admission for Belhaven Faculty/Staff/Students and immediate families. Doors open at 6:30pm. To reserve tickets, please email dancetickets@belhaven.edu.

  
  

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• Ignite the Night · MS Children’s Museum

  • When
    14 Feb 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    2145 Museum Boulevard Jackson, MS 39202

  IGNITE THE NIGHT • Mississippi Children's Museum

  Relive your childhood while having fun supporting MCM through our signature, adults-only fundraising event—a festive evening of food, entertainment, and live music. Hosted by the MCM Partners, each year’s event re-imagines the museum with a creative twist that ensures a night to remember.

  
  

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• Mississippi Symphony Orchestra Pops 1: Star Wars Thalia Mara Hall

  • When
    14 Feb 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM
  • Location
    Thalia Mara Hall 255 East Pascagoula Street, Jackson, MS

  Pops 1: Star Wars – Mississippi Symphony Orchestra

  May the Force be with you as MSO covers nearly the entire Star Wars saga across the span of a single evening – truly an Olympic-level effort – with top selections from almost every film, plus Rogue One to boot. Cosplay enthusiasts should feel free to fly their fan flag, and come in costume as their favorite characters. It’s fun for all, sweeping you down a memory lane of movie music magic.

  This performance is being recorded by Mississippi Public Broadcasting for future airing on MPB’s radio network.

  Visit website for ticket purchase.

  
  

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• North Mississippi Allstars · Duling Hall

  • When
    14 Feb 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM
  • Location
    622 Duling Avenue Jackson, MS, 39216

  NMA started by brother Luther and Cody Dickinson in 1996 as a loose collective of musicians from their North Mississippi home inspired by their father Jim Dickinson as well as neighbors and musical elders of their community; RL Burnside, Junior Kimbrough, Otha Turner and Fred McDowell.

  Doors: 7:00 PM, Show: 8:00 PM | Duling Hall, Jackson, MS

  All ages

  Tickets are $36.10 | $41.25 day of show

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• Primary Trust · New Stage Theatre

  • Start
    17 Feb 2026
  •  
  • End
    1 Mar 2026
  • Schedule
    11 sessions
  • Location
    The Jane Reid-Petty Theatre Center 1100 Carlisle St. Jackson, MS 39202

  Primary Trust by Eboni Booth

  2024 Pulitzer Prize Winning Drama

  Sometimes the quietest voices tell the most powerful stories.

  “it will restore your faith in theatre’s elemental storytelling powers.”– The Observer

  Kenneth’s life has always been simple—he works at a bookstore, sips mai tais with his best friend, and keeps to himself. But when he’s suddenly laid off, his quiet world is turned upside down. Stripped of his routine, Kenneth is forced to face a life he’s long ignored—one filled with new opportunities, unexpected friendships, and untapped potential. Primary Trust is a deeply moving story about the courage to embrace change, the beauty of fresh beginnings, and the profound impact of opening yourself to the world around you. Recommended for ages 16+.

  
  

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• Twelve Angry Jurors · Belhaven University, Blackbox Theatre

  • Start
    19 Feb 2026
  •  
  • End
    28 Feb 2026
  • Schedule
    8 sessions
  • Location
    Blackbox Theatre, Center for the Arts, 835 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS 39202

  Twelve Angry Jurors

  Adapted by Sherman L. Sergel

  Based on the Emmy award-winning television movie by Reginald Rose

  Directed by Elissa Sartwell

  
  

  A 19-year-old man has just stood trial for the fatal stabbing of his father. As the 12 jurors are taken into the bleak jury room, it looks like an open-and-shut case—until one of the jurors begins opening the others' eyes to the facts. With each juror revealing his or her own character as the various testimonies are examined, the murder is re-enacted. Tempers get short, arguments grow heated, and the characters become 12 angry jurors. The jurors' final verdict and how they reach it add up to one of the most memorable pieces of American dramatic literature.

  The box office opens one week before opening night. For ticket reservations: email boxoffice@belhaven.edu or call 601-974-6478.

  Tickets: $10 for adults / $5 for seniors, children, and BU Alumni

  Complimentary for Belhaven students, faculty, and staff.

  Doors open 30 minutes prior to the performance time.

  
  

  Produced by special arrangement with THE DRAMATIC PUBLISHING COMPANY of Woodstock, Illinois

  
  

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• Mississippi Blues Marathon, Half, 10K & 5K

  • When
    21 Feb 2026
  • Location
    Jackson State University Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, 2531 North State Street Jackson, MS 39216

  Mississippi Blues Marathon

  The 19th Edition of the Mississippi Blues Marathon will start and finish from our new home at Jackson State University Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, 2531 North State Street Jackson, MS 39216

  Join us for a morning of Family, Fitness and Fun at the 2026 Mississippi Blues Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay, 10K, 5K and the BB Kids Half Mile Fun Run. #RunTheBlues

  Packet Pick Up & Race Weekend In-Person Registration Information

  Friday, February 20, 2026

  Race Packet Pickup and New Race Registration

  Buffalo Peak Outfitters - 4500 I 55 N, #115, Jackson, MS 39211 - 601-366-2557

  Highland Village Shopping Center

  10:30 am – 6:00 pm

  Saturday, February 21, 2026

  Race Day - Jackson State University Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, 2531 North State Street Jackson, MS 39216

  5:30am to 7:00am for all events!

  
  

  Race Start Area: Jackson State University Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, 2531 North State Street Jackson, MS 39216

  The start area is located just outside of the football field at Veterans Memorial Stadium while the Finish Line will be on the 50 Yard Line of this Iconic Football Complex. All races will start & finish at the same locations!

  5:45am – 7:00 am - Late Packet Pick Up & Registration

  
  

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• Craw Fest · Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

  • When
    21 Feb 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS 39202

  From the burrow to the boil, the CrawFest is a celebration of Mississippi Crawfish!

  Join us for this exciting new event where crawfish take center stage through food, music, science, and hands-on fun for all ages.

  Food Trucks:

  Sal & Phil’s Seafood

  Dr. Flava’s Louisiana Kitchen

  
  

  Enjoy live music by TB Ledford and the Accumulators, whose sound blends country blues, bluegrass, and jug band traditions.

  Guests can explore family-friendly games and activities and learn from area scientists sharing their research on crawfish diversity and ecosystems across Mississippi.

  This program is included with museum admission or MMNS Foundation Membership.

  
  

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• GBF & GBSA Public Safety Meeting

  • When
    22 Feb 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
  • Location
    Barber Auditorium (under library) at Belhaven University

  At this meeting we will be discussing the current status of GBSA, reviewing new Security Technology being implemented by the Greater Belhaven Foundation and looking at options to improve overall neighborhood security and operations.

  There will be a VOTE held, by the members, on the action steps needed to move forward with the BEST Neighborhood Security available.

  - John Lewis, GBSA President

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• Dr. Seuss’ Silly Birthday Celebration · MS Children’s Museum

  • When
    28 Feb 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    2145 Museum Boulevard Jackson, MS 39202

  Dr. Seuss’ Silly Birthday Celebration

  You’re invited to join us for a Seuss-inspired fantastic fun day at MCM for Dr. Seuss’ Silly Birthday Celebration on Saturday, February 28!

  Known as one of our guests’ favorite events of the year, we look forward to welcoming visitors from all across the region to celebrate the world-renowned children’s author, Dr. Seuss. You’ll get messy with ooey-gooey oobleck, hunt for clues on a Seuss-themed scavenger hunt, and enjoy food labs throughout the day! Readings of Dr. Seuss’ most popular books will be enjoyed throughout the day, and guests can snap their photo with Thing 1, Thing 2, and of course – The Cat in the Hat! You won’t want to miss this silly celebration as we craft, laugh, and learn about the beloved author, Dr. Seuss, at our annual birthday bash!

  Wear your favorite Dr. Seuss inspired costume and get ready to have FUN!

  Free for MCM Members

  $13/person for Non-Members

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• Mississippi Symphony Orchestra Bravo 4: Ultimate Beethoven Thalia Mara Hall

  • When
    28 Feb 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM
  • Location
    Thalia Mara Hall 255 East Pascagoula Street, Jackson, MS

  Mississippi Symphony Orchestra Bravo 4: Ultimate Beethoven

  You know the name, now brace for the impact of the master’s music live! Beethoven’s sublime Violin Concerto is among his most transcendent works, and international sensation William Hagen is back by popular demand to bring flair and consummate artistry to the task. Beethoven’s playfully imaginative and bold Symphony No. 2 makes this evening a perfect balance of genius.

  This performance is being recorded by Mississippi Public Broadcasting for future airing on MPB’s radio network.

  Visit website for ticket purchase.

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• The Wood Brothers · Duling Hall

  • When
    4 Mar 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM
  • Location
    622 Duling Avenue, Jackson, MS 39216

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• Fossil Road Show · Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

  • When
    7 Mar 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS 39202

  Fossil Road Show

  Pack up your fossils and hit the road!

  Bring your fossil discoveries to get expert opinions about their ages and identities from our team of scientists. In addition to the Museum's fossil collection, there will be displays from collectors and exhibitors, hands-on activities, "fossil digs", and a scavenger hunt. So, go through your "rock boxes" and challenge our staff with your prehistoric oddities.

  This event is included with museum admission or membership.

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• Mississippi Symphony Orchestra Chamber 4: Spring Delights St. James Episcopal Church

  • When
    7 Mar 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM
  • Location
    St. James' Episcopal Church 3925 Oakridge Dr., Jackson, MS

  Chamber 4: Spring Delights – Mississippi Symphony Orchestra

  Breeze into spring with Stravinsky’s delectable Pulcinella, then bask in the beauty and heart of From a Brother to the World, Ecuador-born Emilio Villacis Villagrán’s winning top-prize selection in MSO’s 2024 Premier Orchestral Institute Competition. The joys keep coming with Haydn’s Symphony No. 82, nicknamed “The Bear” for its rustic finale’s kinship to popular 18th-century carnival accompaniment for dancing bears.

  Visit website for ticket purchase.

  
  

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• Week of Wonder · MS Children’s Museum

  • Start
    9 Mar 2026
  • End
    13 Mar 2026
  • Location
    2145 Museum Boulevard Jackson, MS 39202

  Visit MCM-Jackson and MCM-Meridian for a Week of Wonder during Spring Break, March 9 – 13!

  Enjoy an exciting Spring Break at Week of Wonder in Jackson’s award-winning LeFleur Museum District (LMD). The LMD’s four uniquely amazing museums, located at I-55 and Lakeland Drive, are offering special Spring Break events, exhibits, and discounts. Visit lefleurmuseumdistrict.com to purchase a Museum District Pass and save 25% off regular admission.

  Special Programming

  We have special STEAM-themed programming and activities for you to enjoy all week long! Each day a the museum we focus on a subject in STEAM…

  Science Monday

  Technology Tuesday

  Engineering Wednesday

  Art Thursday

  Math Friday

  
  

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• Federal Primary Election Day

  • When
    10 Mar 2026

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• Band of Heathens · Duling Hall

  • When
    13 Mar 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM
  • Location
    622 Duling Avenue, Jackson, MS 39216

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• Pollinator Day · Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

  • When
    14 Mar 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS 39202

  Spring is almost here and the air is a-buzz with our pollinator friends. Join us for “Pollinator Day” where exhibitors will teach us how to conserve and celebrate our pollinator populations through engaging activities. Special exhibitor stations will showcase information about how pollinators not only contribute to one of every three bites of food you eat, but also support healthy ecosystems that stabilize soils, support other wildlife, and clean the air.

  This event is included with museum admission or membership.

  
  

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• JXN Food & Wine Festival · Downtown Jackson

  • Start
    20 Mar 2026
  • End
    22 Mar 2026
  • Location
    Downtown Jackson

  Jackson, Mississippi’s vibrant capital city, is much more than just the host of the JXN Food & Wine Festival. It’s a place where diverse cultures, rich history, and creative energy come together, making it a destination worth exploring.

  With a reputation for warm, welcoming locals and a spirit of perseverance, Jackson is more than just a destination; it’s an experience waiting to unfold. With its live music, exceptional restaurants, and a spirit of warm hospitality, the City With Soul invites you to embrace its diversity and creativity.

  
  

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• String & Orchestra Showcase · Belhaven University, Center for the Arts

  • When
    20 Mar 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM
  • Location
    835 Riverside Dr, Jackson, MS 39202

  String & Orchestra Showcase - Center for the Arts: Concert Hall

  Join us for a joyful evening celebrating the talent and accomplishments of our string soloists, chamber ensembles, and symphonic orchestra. This spring concert showcases the vibrant work of our student musicians through a program full of color, variety, and artistry. From intimate chamber pieces to full orchestral works, you’ll experience a night filled with energy, excitement, and musical excellence.

  Free Admission, Doors Open at 6:30pm

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• Run the Rainbow 5K, 10K Half & Full Marathon · Start & Finish at Hal & Mal’s · Race Course through Belhaven

  • When
    21 Mar 2026
  •  
    6:30 AM
  • Location
    200 Commerce Street Jackson, MS 39201

  Register to “Run the Rainbow for Children’s” to support Children’s of Mississippi – the state’s only children’s hospital. Registration fees and all event proceeds will help Children’s of Mississippi provide state-of-the-art care to any child in need.
  

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• All-State Strings Concert · Belhaven University, Center for the Arts

  • When
    21 Mar 2026
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • Location
    835 Riverside Drive Jackson, MS 39202

  All-State Strings Concert

  Belhaven University

  Center for the Arts: Concert Hall 3:00 PM

  
  

  The Mississippi All-State String Orchestra brings together many of the state’s most talented precollege and high school string musicians, selected through a competitive audition process. After two days of intensive rehearsal and training, these exceptional young performers will present their final concert—a culmination of hard work, dedication, and musical growth. Come and support the next generation of Mississippi’s finest musicians as they share their passion and artistry on stage.

  Free Admission, Doors Open at 2:30pm

  
  

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• Art for the Park 2026

  • When
    16 Apr 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Fairview Inn
  • Spaces left
    999

  Register

  The Belhaven Garden Club and the Greater Belhaven Foundation are gearing up for the cherished biannual event, Art for the Park. The event will be April 16th from 6:30-8:30 at the Fairview Inn. 

  Art for the Park 2024 raised over $17,000 for our neighborhood parks. These funds were used to support the installation of the Keith Haring Fitness Court and Connector Trail at Belhaven Heights Park, and maintenance and playground installation at Laurel Street Park. This year, we are turning our attention to the beloved Belhaven Park. In the early 2000s, Belhaven Park was invisible and at worst, an eyesore rather than a park worthy of its name and location. It was unloved for more than 30 years and became a magnet for trash, weeds, illegal dumping and undesirable behaviors.  A group of people, led by Greater Belhaven Foundation Executive Director Virgi Lindsay, came together in 2006 to change the destiny of Belhaven Park. Neighborhood residents and businesses rallied to support the effort because they knew that the park must be saved in order to improve, protect and enhance the neighborhood. Great care was given to the design of the park so that it would fit seamlessly within the Belhaven Historic District and a Certificate of Appropriateness was granted from the Historic Preservation Commission for the project. Improvements included doubling the size of the original park footprint by purchasing an overgrown adjacent parcel as well as the addition of attractive fencing, interior and exterior walkways, landscaping, benches and decorative lighting, all at a cost of almost half a million dollars. Today the restored park, which bridges commercial and residential properties, is enjoyed by residents and people who work at area businesses, hospitals, colleges and other organizations nearby for picnics and games, walking, jogging and strolling, or music and theatre performances. 

  Twenty years later, it is time for the Foundation to once again turn its attention to this important green space. At the retirement party of former councilwoman, Virgi Lindsay, it was announced that GBF would begin a fundraising campaign to completely revise the current stage at Belhaven Park into a state of the art public amenity named in honor of our former Director. To that end, we have raised almost half of what we need to erect this fantastic improvement to Belhaven Park. The funds raised from this year’s Art for the Park will go directly towards the remaining project costs for the Virgi Lindsay Stage at Belhaven Park.

  Greater Belhaven is becoming a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts across the country and is expanding its commitment to being a healthy and vibrant place to live. Your sponsorship dollars help turn this commitment into a reality and your generosity ensures our parks and green spaces are around for many generations to come. We hope that you consider sponsoring Art for the Park which in turn preserves these Greater Belhaven retreats. We thank you in advance for your consideration!

  
  

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