Hattiesburg is known for its dedication to amplifying the arts and putting on an unforgettable show. Every year, Festival South makes its grand return to the Hub City. As you may know, Festival South is a one-of-a-kind festival where visitors are encouraged to engulf their entire being in the celebration of the arts.
What started in 2010 has become an annual, much anticipated event. Now in its fifteenth year, the festival has grown to one of Mississippi’s largest projects of its kind. This year, it will kick off on June 1, 2025 and run through June 22, 2025– giving anyone interested in attending plenty of time to enjoy all that it has to offer. Speaking of which— you can expect to experience performances that range from Broadway style to Jazz nights to ballet. Festival South is unique in that it holds something for everyone. For example, you can catch a string quartet one day and a marvel at dancers igniting the Saenger Theatre the next.
Another unique aspect of Festival South is how accessible it is. The events featured at Festival South are either completely free or affordable for most visitors— thanks to the generous community sponsors and wonderful, hardworking volunteers who make this event possible.
Festival South is more than an average festival. It is Hattiesburg’s largest celebration of the arts and its display of community spirit and creativity. Over the course of three weeks, the city comes alive with music, theatre, visual arts, film, and educational outreach. Events are held at venues all over town—from local churches and libraries to the University of Southern Mississippi and downtown stages.
In addition to world-class performances, the festival also includes Festival South Youth Ambassadors and FestivalArt, a juried art competition that highlights the talents of local and regional artists. Family-friendly programming, such as Festival South Kids, ensures there are plenty of ways for younger audiences to engage with the arts and showcase their talents, as well.
Festival South continues to be organized by the Hattiesburg Concert Association, whose mission is to present high-quality arts programming to South Mississippi. With each year, the festival strengthens its reputation as a cornerstone of Hattiesburg’s cultural identity and a driver of local tourism and economic development.
Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a first-time attendee, Festival South invites everyone to be inspired, entertained, and moved by the power of the arts. If you have attended or participated in the past, feel free to share your life changing experiences with us in the Our Mississippi Home Facebook comment section.
For additional information on this event, you can visit their link here.
