Browsing: Community Picks

It’s peak summertime in Mississippi, and the last thing many of us want to do is spend time in the sweltering heat. That is, unless there will be water involved. On August 16th, 2025, Hattiesburg will be hosting the Rodney Richardson Water Run. Lace your running shoes up for a day full of fun and community. 

Despite the raging temperatures, summer is quickly drawing to a close. And here in Mississippi, the advent of autumn means the loss of two precious commodities, homegrown tomatoes and watermelons. 

Animal shelters offer numerous benefits to communities, including providing a haven for homeless animals, reducing pet overpopulation, and promoting responsible pet ownership. They also play a crucial role in animal rescue, rehabilitation, and finding loving homes for animals in need. Regional animal shelters can have a positive impact on local economies and contribute to community well-being. 

A new digital tool aims to make it easier for southeast Mississippi residents to stay informed, engaged and connected to what matters most in their communities.

Ready or not … it is time for Mississippi kids to head back to school. 

Of course, that also means it is time to buy new clothes and school supplies. For parents that can be a daunting, expensive, time-consuming task. But for grandmothers like me, shopping for school supplies is a yearly adventure filled with laughter, good food, and lots of cash. 

A dozen local children will soon sleep more soundly thanks to a collaborative effort between Sparklight® and the Jackson County chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP). During a volunteer event held July 18 at the Jackson County Fairgrounds, 30 Sparklight associates and family members worked alongside SHP volunteers to build beds for children who previously didn’t have one of their own.

Bargain hunters, collectors, and curious passersby will soon have a reason to roam the streets of Hattiesburg’s historic district neighborhood. The Avenues Wide Yard Sale is set to return on August 9, 2025 at 8:00 AM, bringing with it a full day of community charm and front-yard finds. Stay updated on their official Facebook page. 

Mississippi knows how to make an impression—and now the rest of the country is catching on. Tucked in the rolling hills of Oktibbeha County, the vibrant city of Starkville has just been named the No. 1 Small Town to Visit in the South by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. That’s right—Starkville topped the list, and anyone who’s ever spent a Saturday strolling through downtown or cheering on the Bulldogs knows exactly why.

The Hattiesburg Zoo is rolling out three new animal experiences which allow guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with several unique species.  New experiences are the Anteater Feeding Experience, the South America Yard Experience and the Giraffe Experience.  

In the heart of Yalobusha County, where small-town charm meets Southern celebration, Water Valley is gearing up once again for one of Mississippi’s most beloved summer traditions—the Watermelon Carnival, now in its 51st year. Always set for the first Friday and Saturday in August, this iconic event transforms historic Main Street into a lively festival that draws an estimated 20,000 visitors annually.

The University of Mississippi is looking to catch learning disabilities sooner and expand educational resources in north Mississippi through a new Early Learning and Evaluation Center.

Gautier is glowing a little brighter these days — and it’s not just from the stage lights at The Sound Amphitheater. A brand-new hotspot has emerged across the street, bringing a unique blend of charm, culture, and cool to the Coast. We’re thrilled to welcome Voodoo Cigar Lounge, a vibrant new business that’s adding momentum to Gautier’s upward climb.

Streetlights are getting fixed, debris is being cleared faster and neighbors who once felt ignored are now sitting at the table with city leaders. 

Mississippi’s Gulf Coast is aging faster than the rest of the state, and Hancock County sits at the center of that demographic shift. 

Summer is heating up, and so is the excitement at your local library! The Jackson-George Regional Library System is bursting with free events, hands-on activities, and cool resources for all ages. From epic escape rooms and ice cream socials to live sharks and Christmas in July—there’s something for everyone at JGRLS this summer. 🎉 Visit our website to explore programs at all branches: www.jgrls.org.

Keep America Beautiful is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to community improvement. Its mission is to inspire and educate people to work toward a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful America. Keep Mississippi Beautiful is a network that connects 60 Keep America Beautiful-certified affiliates throughout our state, focusing on litter prevention, recycling, and community beautification.