Discover Exciting Music and Activities at Jackson’s National Folk Festival
Jackson, Mississippi, is set to host the 82nd National Folk Festival, marking the city’s first three-year residency from 2025 to 2027. This esteemed event will bring together over 300 musicians, dancers, and artisans, showcasing the vibrant cultural diversity of the region.
Highlights of Jackson’s National Folk Festival
Scheduled to take place over three days, the festival will feature performances on six separate stages within a pedestrian-friendly area spanning ten city blocks. Local Mississippi talents, including renowned artists like Bobby Rush and The Sonic Boom of the South, will take center stage, alongside a variety of other performers representing diverse musical genres and cultural backgrounds.
Event Schedule
- Friday, November 7: 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
- Saturday, November 8: 12 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
- Sunday, November 9: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Featured Artists
The festival will host a range of performers from various artistic disciplines. Notable Mississippi participants include:
- Bobby Rush – Blues
- Ms. Jody – Southern soul
- Vasti Jackson – Country and blues
- Dr. Tammy Greer – Native plant traditions
- Jimmy “Duck” Holmes – Bentonia blues
- The Mighty Gospel Warriors – Gospel
- And many others representing music, dance, and crafts.
Stages and Locations
Performances will occur on six stages strategically located throughout Downtown Jackson:
- Ergon/Alliant Stage: Near the Old Capitol Museum
- Visit Mississippi Stage: Capitol Street between Lamar and Farish Streets
- StateStreet Group Stage: Intersection of Yazoo and President Streets
- Community Foundation for Mississippi/W.K. Kellogg Foundation Family Stage: Smith Park
- Mississippi Folklife Stage: Old Capitol Museum Green
Activities Beyond Music
The National Folk Festival promises more than just music. Attendees can explore:
- Delicious local and international cuisine from various food vendors.
- A vibrant Festival Marketplace featuring crafts, quilts, and artisan goods from artists across the Deep South.
- Cultural demonstrations celebrating Mississippi’s rich heritage.
- Street performances throughout the festival area.
This festival is not just an event; it’s a cultural milestone for Jackson that aims to enrich the city economically and socially. Following the National Folk Festival’s conclusion in 2027, Jackson plans to continue hosting its own annual folk festival, ensuring the legacy of this cultural celebration endures.
