Greater Belhaven Foundation upcoming events

Exhibition: Giants of the Ice Age MS Museum of Natural Science (31 Jan 2026)

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT

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.

Millsaps College Commencement (9 May 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Commencement is scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, in the Bowl.

In case of rain, the ceremony will be held at Christ United Church at 6000 Old Canton Road in northeast Jackson. Please note that if commencement exercises are moved to Christ United Church, the start time will be moved back one hour to 10:30 a.m.

UMMC Commencement (22 May 2026)

Fri, 22 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Commencement Information

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (26 May 2026)

Wed, 27 May 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

It’s the dawn of the 20th century, and New York City is alive with change, innovation, and the vibrant rhythms of ragtime. This Tony Award-winning musical brings to life the intertwining stories of three families—a white, upper-middle-class family in New Rochelle, an African-American musician and his girlfriend in Harlem, and a Jewish immigrant and his daughter on the Lower East Side. Their journeys are shaped by the towering figures of the era, including the daring Harry Houdini, the visionary Booker T. Washington, the powerful J.P. Morgan, and the industrial titan Henry Ford. As their lives cross paths, Ragtime delves into issues of race, class, identity, and the American Dream, delivering a stirring, intimate production that speaks as profoundly to today’s world as it did a century ago. Recommended for ages 12+.

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (27 May 2026)

Thu, 28 May 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Book Signing with Jesmyn Ward · The Eudora Welty House (28 May 2026)

Thu, 28 May 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Join us on Thursday, May 28 for an event with Jesmyn Ward and Ebony Lumumba for Ward's new collection of essays, On Witness and Respair.

This event will take place on the Eudora Welty House and Garden Front Lawn and begin with a book signing at 4:30 p.m., and the conversation to follow at 5:30 p.m. Lemuria will be on-site selling books, and only books purchased through Lemuria will be signed.

RSVP here: https://invite.social/o3cwcdl2gwr2c1dy

Can't make it to the event? Click here to order your signed copy!

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (28 May 2026)

Fri, 29 May 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (29 May 2026)

Sat, 30 May 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (30 May 2026)

Sun, 31 May 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (31 May 2026)

Sun, 31 May 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (2 Jun 2026)

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings (3 Jun 2026)

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings

Historic preservation plays a vital role in maintaining Jackson’s unique character. It ensures that new construction and rehabilitation projects are compatible with existing neighborhood styles and quality standards. The Historic Preservation Ordinance was first adopted in 1988 and has been amended over time to guide:

Rehabilitation of historic structures

New development within historic districts

Alterations to cultural, architectural, and archaeological properties

Protection of local and state landmarks, as well as sites listed on the National Register of Historic Properties

Local historic districts were created with the agreement of property owners, recognizing the long-term benefits to their communities.

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (4 Jun 2026)

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (5 Jun 2026)

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (6 Jun 2026)

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Ragtime · New Stage Theatre (7 Jun 2026)

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Ragtime

Book by Terrence McNally; Music by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens.

Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow

May 26-30, June 2, 4-6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

May 31 & June 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Classic American Musical

Subscription Show

One nation. Many dreams. A musical that moves the soul.

“A dazzling, heart-stirring masterpiece. Ragtime delivers a powerful, timeless message that resonates long after the curtain falls.”— The New York Times

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings (1 Jul 2026)

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings

Rehabilitation of historic structures

New development within historic districts

Alterations to cultural, architectural, and archaeological properties

Protection of local and state landmarks, as well as sites listed on the National Register of Historic Properties

Local historic districts were created with the agreement of property owners, recognizing the long-term benefits to their communities.

Patriotic Day · MS Children’s Museum (4 Jul 2026)

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday at the museum! Join us in your patriotic best for a star-spangled birthday bash, sure to go down in the history books!

*Museum will close at 2:00pm on July 4, 2026

Programs & Activities

10:00am – 1:00pm: Costumed Characters from the Daughters of the American Revolution

11:00am & 12:30pm: Fife & Drum Parade

10:30am & 11:30am: Musical Performances

9:00am – 1:00pm: Patriotic Craft Stations

12:00pm: Confetti and Cupcakes

1:00pm: Popsicles on the Plaza

Red Rocket Café Special Menu:

Hamburgers, Hot Dogs and Apple Pie Milkshakes

*additional purchase required

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings (5 Aug 2026)

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings

Rehabilitation of historic structures

New development within historic districts

Alterations to cultural, architectural, and archaeological properties

Protection of local and state landmarks, as well as sites listed on the National Register of Historic Properties

Local historic districts were created with the agreement of property owners, recognizing the long-term benefits to their communities.

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings (2 Sep 2026)

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings

Rehabilitation of historic structures

New development within historic districts

Alterations to cultural, architectural, and archaeological properties

Protection of local and state landmarks, as well as sites listed on the National Register of Historic Properties

Local historic districts were created with the agreement of property owners, recognizing the long-term benefits to their communities.

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings (7 Oct 2026)

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings

Rehabilitation of historic structures

New development within historic districts

Alterations to cultural, architectural, and archaeological properties

Protection of local and state landmarks, as well as sites listed on the National Register of Historic Properties

Local historic districts were created with the agreement of property owners, recognizing the long-term benefits to their communities.

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings (4 Nov 2026)

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings

Rehabilitation of historic structures

New development within historic districts

Alterations to cultural, architectural, and archaeological properties

Protection of local and state landmarks, as well as sites listed on the National Register of Historic Properties

Local historic districts were created with the agreement of property owners, recognizing the long-term benefits to their communities.

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings (2 Dec 2026)

Wed, 02 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Historic Preservation Commission Meetings

Rehabilitation of historic structures

New development within historic districts

Alterations to cultural, architectural, and archaeological properties

Protection of local and state landmarks, as well as sites listed on the National Register of Historic Properties

Local historic districts were created with the agreement of property owners, recognizing the long-term benefits to their communities.