Old St. Nick is on his way to Laurel and Jones County, Mississippi and we can’t wait to greet him! To prepare for his arrival, we’re diving headfirst into the holiday spirit with some of our favorite annual events that locals love and guests travel from far and wide to experience. Whether you’re getting ready to light up the night with the Cadence Bank Christmas Tree, picking out your favorite finds at the Merry Marketplace or setting out for an evening of Christmas cheer at the theater–there’s snow much excitement to experience!
Ellisville Open House
Get ready to celebrate with the Christmas Open House in Downtown Ellisville on November 30th. Start your morning with Pancake Day, hosted by The Ellis Club at George Harrison, from 8:00 a.m to 11:30 p.m. Then, head downtown to explore local merchants and holiday pop-up shops offering great deals, friendly smiles and festive fun. Be sure to grab a stamp card at one of the participating stores—every purchase earns you a stamp, and when your card is full, you’ll be entered to win giveaways from each shop.
Landrum’s Christmas at the Homestead
We know that each holiday season, Laurel and Jones County begin to feel straight out of all your most beloved Christmas movies. It’s as if you’re stepping into a holiday card!
For example, Christmas at Landrum's Homestead and Village transports each guest back in time to simpler times of seasonal cheer. Indulge in treats like warm funnel cakes and hot cocoa. Perhaps hop on a wagon ride or say hello to Mr. and Mrs. Claus! Visitors can stroll the homestead throughout the holiday season and soak up the merry magic that decorates Landrum’s.
Merry on the Midway
Another experience we're excited to bring you is the very first "Merry on the Midway: Christmas in Lights," holiday extravaganza at the fairgrounds! Picture this: thousands of lights, enchanting displays and Santa's Village, where you can swing by Mrs. Claus's Lollipop Candy Shop, snap a selfie with Santa, drop off your wish list at the North Pole Post Office and grab a treat from the Nutcracker Bakery. Explore the Christmas storybook walk featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas and indulge in cozy s'mores by the fire.
Cadence Bank Christmas Tree and Cookie Stroll
Carols, candlelight and Christmas trees? Count us in! Join Cadence Bank for their Christmas Tree Lighting downtown. This movie-worthy moment literally lights up the night and is the perfect family-friendly activity to add to your holiday. Guests of all ages are welcome to attend and experience the magic.
Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to satiate your sweet tooth at the Cookie Stroll. The Cadence Bank Cookie Stroll turns downtown into a festive holiday haven with late-night shopping, free Christmas cookies and family-friendly fun. Guests can enjoy photos with Santa and the Grinch, experience snow-filled streets and join caroling to light the Laurel Christmas tree.
Laurel Kiwanis Club Pancake Day
Flip into the holiday spirit at Pancake Day, hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Laurel! It’s all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, butter, syrup and endless cups of coffee, milk and soda that are sure to satisfy. Best of all, every bite helps fund college scholarships for local students—a gift that keeps on giving.
Christmas Parades
The Laurel Sertoma Christmas Parade–the biggest parade in the state–is here. It’s a holiday treat for kids from one to ninety-two! On December 7th, grab your lawn chairs, bundle up in cozy scarves and claim your front-row spot early—it starts at 10 a.m. and yule be sorry if you miss it!
Another awesome parade opportunity is the Ellisville Christmas Parade–also on December 7th and starting at 2 p.m. Hang out and enjoy crafts and cookies in the Community Bank park from 3-5:15 p.m. and check out local music that will fill the air throughout the day.
Looking for more ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year? Click here to plan your merry little Laurel and Jones County Christmas today!
