Each year, on the Saturday before Labor Day, the iconic Prairie Arts Festival takes place in historic downtown West Point, Mississippi. This year’s event is slated for August 31, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., with arts and crafts vendors from multiple states displaying their wares along Commerce Street and throughout Sally Kate Winters Park.
The day’s activities will actually begin at 8 a.m. on 746 East Broad Street with the Prairies Arts Festival 5k Race. Participants s of all ages are welcome, with race registration information available at prairieartsfestival.org/5k. Then, at 9:15 a.m., awards will be presented to first, second, and third place runners in each age group, as well as awards for Best Overall Male Runner and Best Overall Female Runner.
But the 5k run is just the beginning of an action-packed day, and what sets this yearly event apart from all the other wonderful Mississippi festivals is the arts and crafts that will be featured throughout the day. With over 600 exhibits, the Prairie Arts Festival is one of the largest arts and crafts festivals in America. In fact, it has been nationally recognized as one of the top ten arts and crafts events in the South.
It’s no wonder! Some of the South’s finest artisans and craftsmen participate in this festival each year, bringing together a truly outstanding and eclectic collection of art, all in one location. As visitors stroll along the festival’s pathway, they will view everything from paintings to photography to glassware to pottery, and much, much more – including metallic yard art, woodwork, handmade jewelry, and calligraphy.
But the Prairie Arts Festival is a day of fun for the whole family. Children will find bouncy houses, face-painting, some friendly farm animals, kiddy rides, various fun and games – even hands-on art and craft activities.
Of course, no Mississippi festival is complete without great music and delicious food. Have no fear! West Point, Mississippi, will deliver on both counts. With four separate stages of live music, festivalgoers will hear an array of great music throughout the day.
Not to mention, the variety of good food to choose from is always unbelievable. But my personal favorite is always good ol’ Southern foods like barbeque and catfish. And for me, the day would not be complete without a fried peach pie, just like my grandmother used to make.
But the absolute pinnacle of my trek to any Prairies Arts Festival is purchasing one unforgettable work of art. And usually, that means I pick out a gorgeous piece of Mississippi-made pottery to take home and add to my already overflowing collection of mud masterpieces. (Yep, I confess! Pottery is my weakness.)
So, you better get there early this Saturday if you want to beat me to the pottery booths! But I promise to save you a fried pie or two.
See you at West Point!
Pets are not permitted at the festival. That includes dogs, cats, snakes, birds, fish, bearded dragons, etc. Service dogs are permitted but with proper vest and/or identification.
