Whether you’re heading home for the holidays or traveling to celebrate Thanksgiving with loved ones, Laurel & Jones County is the kind of place that invites you to slow down, stretch your legs and enjoy a little seasonal magic along the way. Perfectly positioned in the heart of Mississippi, our central location makes the area an easy, worthwhile addition to your Thanksgiving travel route, offering cozy bites, charming shops, festive events and inviting spaces to simply breathe during a busy season.
Experience the Thanksgiving Spirit at Landrum’s Homestead & Village
This time of year, few places capture the nostalgia of the season quite like Landrum’s Homestead & Village. The Homestead’s holiday events bring together tradition, craftsmanship, and old-fashioned family fun in a setting that feels straight out of a Christmas card. Visitors can wander the 30-acre working village, sip hot cider, browse handcrafted gifts, meet local artisans, and enjoy live demonstrations that highlight Mississippi heritage. It’s a meaningful way to make your Thanksgiving trip feel more festive, and a wonderful opportunity to start your holiday shopping early.
Stretch Your Legs in Laurel’s Walkable Downtown
If your Thanksgiving journey brings you near Laurel, spending an hour or an afternoon in our vibrant downtown is an experience travelers consistently rave about. Whether you’re familiar with Laurel from HGTV’s “Home Town” or discovering it for the first time, downtown is full of warm hospitality and easygoing charm.
Beginning November 25, visitors can enjoy the United Way’s Prancer Path, a cheerful, walkable holiday display that brings even more sparkle to downtown.
Stroll beneath twinkling lights, browse locally owned shops for seasonal décor or artisan gifts, and grab a cozy meal from one of our beloved restaurants. From mouthwatering Southern comfort food to freshly brewed coffee and bakery treats perfect for the road, downtown Laurel offers flavors that feel like the holidays.
As you explore, be sure to check out special promotions and extended hours for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, the perfect chance to find meaningful gifts while supporting local businesses. And just a short drive away, Ellisville also offers fantastic shopping options worth adding to your holiday route.
Fuel Up With Local Favorites
A Thanksgiving trip calls for good food, and Laurel’s restaurants always deliver. Visitors can enjoy a variety of options, ranging from hearty Southern classics to lighter bites and quick, delicious choices ideal for travelers on the go. If you’re looking to bring something special to your Thanksgiving gathering, or simply want a treat for the drive, swing by Hill Street Bakery for one of their famous pies.
Make Laurel Part of Your Holiday Tradition
Several local spots make Thanksgiving Day even easier and more delicious. Wilson’s Commissary will be serving on Thanksgiving Day, offering travelers a warm meal and locals an effortless holiday option.
If you're staying in an Airbnb and need help with catering or even setting up your Thanksgiving meal, Cozy Cottage Management can assist with holiday-ready setups, turkey meals, and thoughtful hospitality touches that make your stay feel like home.
No matter where your Thanksgiving road leads this year, Laurel & Jones County offers comfort, charm, and a sense of welcome that makes any journey more memorable. Whether you pause for an event, a meal, or just a moment to explore, we hope your time here adds warmth to your holiday season.
Safe travels and Happy Thanksgiving from Laurel & Jones County!
