One Million Dollars and 55,000 Hours: The True Cost of Mississippi's November Arts Boom
From a $1 million holiday market in Jackson to a 50th anniversary craft fair in Ridgeland, the state is packed with weekend events.
By Grace Sullivan ·
Mississippi residents can choose from a dozen or more arts and crafts events this November. The calendar includes a holiday fundraiser in Jackson, a national folk music festival, and a 50th anniversary craft fair in Ridgeland.
The Mistletoe Marketplace in Jackson runs from November 4 to 7. It is the largest fundraiser for the Junior League of Jackson. The organization says the event brings in more than $1 million each year. Those funds support the League’s mission to advance women’s leadership through volunteer action and training.
League volunteers contribute more than 55,000 hours of community service annually. They support more than 30 local projects. The marketplace opens with the Merry & Bright: The Mistletoe Gala on November 4 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
The Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival takes place in Ocean Springs on November 7 and 8. It is the largest arts and crafts festival in the state. The event features artists, craftsmen, and food vendors from across the country. It is described as pet-friendly and kid-friendly.
The Picayune Street Festival will be held in downtown Picayune on November 7 and 8. This is the 64th semi-annual edition of the event. It has been a local tradition since 1995. The festival includes arts and crafts, food, music, and a classic car show.
The Chimneyville Arts Festival marks its 50th anniversary in Ridgeland from November 12 to 14. The Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi presents the event at the Waller Craft Center near the Reservoir. It features juried, handmade items. An opening Preview Party with live music and food is scheduled for November 12.
The National Folk Festival returns to downtown Jackson for the second of a three-year run from November 13 to 15. The free event features multiple stages with folk music from around the world. Other events include the Gingham Tree Arts & Crafts Festival in Lucedale on November 14, the Scottish Highland Games & Celtic Music Fest in Gulfport from November 11 to 14, and Handworks in Jackson from November 21 to 22.
