Gulf Coast Events & Gulf Coast Festivals

Events

The vibrant Mississippi Gulf Coast is home to more than 300 annual festivals, fairs and special events (as well as dozens of on-going exhibits, art walks, special interest classes, farmer’s markets, flea markets and guided tours) that delight visitors and locals alike. From the irresistible exuberance of Mardi Gras to the sparkling beauty of Christmas on the Water, the coast offers something to celebrate virtually all year round! If you want to experience the authentic flavor, spirit and diverse traditions of the region, there’s no better way to do so than including one of these many festive occasions in your itinerary.

Music, food, arts & crafts, cultural celebrations, golf tournaments, kid-friendly events, classic car rallies, boat races, horse shows, fishing rodeos and film festivals are just some the popular categories to consider, including many that have been drawing enthusiasts from around the country for decades. The mild coastal climate makes this destination an ideal setting for outdoor gatherings regardless of the season. Annual highlights include events such as Cruisin’ the Coast, Smokin’ the Sound, the Gulfport Music Festival, the Biloxi Seafood Festival, Bay BridgeFest, the Kite Festival, Chefs of the Coast, the Scottish Highland Games and Celtic Music Festival, the Blues and Heritage Festival, the Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival and our newest addition for 2012—Sun & Sand, the Mississippi Film and Music Festival. In addition, you can choose from an extensive line-up of renowned performing artists at venues such as the Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center, the Beau Rivage Theatre, the IP Casino Resort & Spa and The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Upcoming events are listed below. You may also click here to view the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast calendar of events.

Walter Anderson Museum

posted by Cliff on May 11,2012
An enchanting celebration of the works of Walter Anderson, the Museum in Ocean Springs is open to the public daily. Called “a genius amongst us,” Anderson spent most of his life on the Mississippi Gulf Coast where he captured the surrounding nature and a sense of place in his art. He was vastly talented in watercolors, oils, block prints, pottery and woodcarvings. One of Anderson’s most popular read more »
Full Moon Kayak Adventures

posted by Cliff on May 11,2012
Paddle by the light of the moon on full moon nights, June – December. Next full moon is June 4, when the Strawberry Moon makes its appearance. Or enjoy the Buck Moon on July 3. Kayaks provided or bring your own on this two-hour excursion. Call for times and more information. 228-872-2030. www.southcoastpaddling.com read more »
Sounds by the Sea

posted by Cliff on May 10,2012
Memorial Day music fills the air during this two-day commemoration of those who protect America’s freedom, May 26 in Gulfport and May 27 in Pascagoula, 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Enjoy these open-air concerts under the stars on the beach—Jones Park in Gulfport; Beach Park in Pascagoula. Admission is free. Event features spectacular fireworks along with patriotic selections from the Gulf Coast Symphony. Bring your read more »
Mississippi Coast Coliseum 26th Annual Summer Fair

posted by Cliff on May 07,2012
This can’t miss kick-off to summer has something for everyone, June 7 – 17. Spectacular midway rides, free shows, live music, games and local food, to include Barbeque at the Beach on Sunday, June 10. Racing pigs, petting zoo, splash dogs, pony rides and more. www.mscoastcoliseum.com. read more »
Rockin’ the Dock

posted by Cliff on May 07,2012
Headliner Michael Grimm rocks The Dock, Friday, June 1st. Known for his “soulful voice and earthy Southern charm,” Grimm launched into stardom with a first-place finish on America’s Got Talent. Music and great food rock The Dock on one of the largest outdoor decks on the Mississippi Coast, overlooking Gulfport Lake. For more info, www.mscoastchamber.com. read more »
Southcoast Summerfest

posted by Cliff on May 07,2012
June 15 – 24, this 10-day festival celebrates Coastal Mississippi lands and waterways, along with local music, art and food. Activities span the three coastal counties, from Bay St. Louis to Pascagoula, featuring kayak events, bayou tours and beach parties. Sign the kids up for kayak camp! For more information, www.southcoastsummerfest.com. read more »
10th ANNIVERSARY SCRAPIN’ THE COAST

posted by Glenn on Apr 30,2012
Called the Wildest Show on the Coast, Scrapin’ rolls June 22 – 24 when the hottest of the hot cars and trucks come to the Mississippi Coast. Live bands, stereo competition, frame draggin’, flame throwing, burnout, wild bikini and other contests. For more information www.scrapinthecoast.com. read more »
6th ANNUAL BAY BRIDGEFEST

posted by Glenn on Apr 30,2012
June 2 -3, come celebrate Bay St. Louis, named by Coastal Living as one of the “Top Ten Beach Communities” in the country. Designated a AAA Southern Travel Treasure, BridgeFest features dozens of bands on three stages, regional art, Coast cuisine and a 5k Run/Walk across the Bay St. Louis Bridge. More information, www.baybridgefest.org. read more »
Infinity at NASA Now Open

posted by Cliff on Apr 09,2012
A new $30 million science and space educational center is open on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, celebrating the intertwining of science, space exploration and fun. INFINITY Science Center, affiliated with NASA’s John C. Stennis Space Center, is designed to challenge and educate visitors of all ages on the role of science and math in exploration across history. INFINITY also showcases Stennis Space Center’s part in read more »
2012 Gulfport Music Festival

posted by Cliff on Apr 05,2012
Jones Park on the beach in Gulfport plays host to the 2012 Gulfport Music Festival, May 18—20. Three days, three stages, over 50 acts. Headliners include Maroon 5, Nelly and Gary Allan. Maroon 5, with the multi-platinum Grammy nominated hit “Moves Like Jagger,” has earned three Grammy wins and sold over 10 million albums. Lead Singer Adam Levine is one of the judges and coaches read more »

Upcoming Events