The Natchez Trace Parkway is an integral part of Mississippi history – and our nation’s history, as well.
Aside from its storied history (https://www.nps.gov/natr/index.htm), the Natchez Trace Parkway is also an integral part of the lives of modern Mississippians. In fact, “the Trace” is how most people in the state refer to this 444-mile scenic drive through three southern states.
Most of that extensive mileage runs in a diagonal pattern through our state, from Milepost 0 in Natchez, Mississippi, to Milepost 308.9 in Tishomingo County, at Mississippi’s northeastern border with Alabama. The entire route offers travelers a unique picture of our home state’s natural beauty and its rich heritage.
The amazing story of this ancient wilderness trail is documented along the entire Natchez Trace route by interpretive signs and historical markers. Plus, guests can visit numerous historic sites, including portions of the Old Trace, intersecting battlegrounds, and even some of the six Native American Indian mounds encompassed within the Natchez Trace.
Those sites and others along the Natchez Trace are familiar to lots of kids in Mississippi. They have studied its history and taken Parkway fieldstrips as part of their schools’ curriculum. But most of all, they have traveled up and down this historic road (some, daily) throughout their lifetimes.
So, it was no wonder that the Natchez Trace Parkway chose to commemorate the historic 250th birthday of our nation by hosting a modern-day celebration for Mississippi families, called Movies on the Trace.
For those who have not enjoyed this ongoing celebration of Americana, Movies on the Trace is a bi-monthly movie series that began in early July and is slated to run through October. These family-friendly movie selections are shown free of charge on the grounds of the Parkway Visitor Center (Milepost 266), in Tupelo, Mississippi.
Everyone is invited to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks and enjoy the movie under Mississippi’s beautiful, starry nighttime sky. Starting times have varied between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., depending on summer-time sunsets. But have no fear! In the event of inclement weather, the celebration will be relocated to the Parkway Visitor Center.
It’s also interesting to note that before each movie viewing, a Park Ranger will speak briefly, tying the theme and storyline of each chosen film to America’s history and culture. These talks are designed to spark even more family discussions about our great nation, long after the film is finished.
So, pack those chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets full of goodies, and enjoy a literal star-studded viewing of the animated movie, FernGully. The fun celebration begins this Saturday evening, August 8, at 7:30 p.m.
Visit online at https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=34F0564F-EE59-2D2E-D1CC676E64EDB023 for more details.
