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!
Get ready to celebrate with the Christmas Open House in Downtown Ellisville on November 29th. Start your morning with Pancake Day, hosted by The Ellis Club at the George Harrison Building. Then, head downtown to explore local merchants and holiday pop-up shops offering great deals, friendly smiles, and festive fun.
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. Weekly events from Thanksgiving weekend leading up to Christmas! Check their full list of dates HERE.
Returning after a fantastic inaugural season is "Merry on the Midway: Christmas in Lights," a 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. Multiple dates throughout December.
Cadence Bank Christmas Tree and Cookie Stroll
Carols, candlelight, and Christmas trees? Count us in! Join Cadence Bank for their Christmas Tree Lighting downtown on December 5. 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 on December 6th, hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Laurel! This is one of Laurel’s most cherished traditions, celebrating its 71st year of flippin’ fun! 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.
The Laurel Sertoma Christmas Parade, the state's biggest, is here. It’s a holiday treat for kids from one to ninety-two! On December 6th, 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 6th —followed by the downtown tree lighting.
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!
