Springtime in Laurel is full of new opportunities to explore. Comfortable weather, reopened outdoor spaces, and a steady lineup of local events bring the community to life. From fishing and picnics in the park to festivals and theatre performances, spring brings countless ways to make the most of your time in Laurel.
Outdoor Adventure Awakens
As winter gives way to spring, outdoor recreation returns across Laurel and Jones County. Parks, lakes, and recreational spaces across the county are back in regular use, and the warmer weather makes it easy to spend more time outside.
Mason Park remains a local favorite for spending a relaxed spring afternoon. Shaded walking paths, picnic tables, and tall pine trees create an easy escape without ever leaving downtown. Pick up lunch and a coffee from Lee’s Coffee & Tea, bring your favorite book, and stay a while.
If you’re wanting to get out on the water, Big Creek Reservoir offers one of the top outdoor experiences in Jones County. This 200-acre lake combines recreation and relaxation, featuring:
- Great spots for fishing
- Boat tours and boating access
- RV sites and furnished cabins
- A relaxing beach area
It’s an ideal destination for families, anglers, and visitors looking to spend a full day outdoors in Laurel.
Nature lovers can also explore Lake Bogue Homa, an 882-acre lake and the largest fishing lake operated by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Known for its peaceful surroundings and reliable fishing conditions, the lake provides a quiet setting to reconnect with nature during a busy spring season.
Golfers can celebrate the warmer weather with a round at Dixie Golf Club, a private 18-hole course that has served the community since 1960. Stretching 6,656 yards from the longest tees, the course pairs scenic views with a relaxed playing experience, featuring:
Whether you’re just starting out or good enough to keep up with the pros, it’s a classic Laurel experience worth adding to your spring itinerary.
Spring Into Action
Aside from the warmer weather, spring also brings Laurel’s event calendar into full swing. From weekly gatherings to seasonal celebrations, there’s almost always something happening around town.
- Storytime at the Library (10:00 am-11:00 am) – Each Tuesday and Thursday of the month
- LRMA Historic District Walking Tour (10:30am-11:30am) – Each Friday of the month
- LRMA Classes: Ceramics, Glassblowing, and more throughout April
- Artful Yoga (9:00am) - Wednesdays in April
- Shower Singers Anonymous (7:00pm-11:00pm) – Each Friday of the month
- Mississippi Made @ Laurel Mercantile (9:00am-3:00pm) – March 21st
- Market at the Mill - March 21st and April 18th
- Landrum’s Homestead Spring Festival - March 28th
- Roux Masters Gumbo Cookoff – March 28th
- LRMA Chalkfest (10:00am-12:00pm) – April 4th
- Bibletones’ 54th Hometown Gospel Fest – April 9th-11th
- Laurel Main Street Wine Down - April 11th
- Community Bank Crawfest (11:00 am-3:00 pm) – April 18th
- Spring Fest (9:00 am-4:00 pm) – April 25th
- Laurel Arts League Day in the Park (9:00 am-3:00 pm) – May 2nd
- Live in Laurel (12:00 pm-5:00 pm) – May 9th
Spring Food Fests
For foodies, spring in Laurel marks the return of some of the most anticipated flavors and traditions. Later in March, the Roux Masters Gumbo Cook-Off invites teams and visitors together for an afternoon based around one of the Gulf South’s most recognizable dishes, with tastings, local vendors, and friendly competition. The season continues into April with the Community Bank Crawfest, where live music and crawfish boils make up one of the area’s most notable spring traditions, rounding out the county’s lineup of seasonal food festivals.
A Walk Down Main Street
Recently named one of the “7 Most Walkable Town Centers in Mississippi,” Laurel’s historic downtown district is best experienced on foot. Locally owned shops, friendly storefronts, and rich local culture make every encounter feel personal. Spring brings the area back to life and creates the perfect chance to wander, connect, and experience the small-town charm of Laurel.
See for Yourself this Spring
In Laurel, spring doesn’t follow a strict schedule. A morning event can lead to an afternoon by the lake, and a quick visit downtown often becomes hours well spent. Whether your itinerary is full of plans or completely open, Laurel is full of moments big and small waiting to be experienced.
