Where to celebrate Christmas in Mississippi? It’s the most beautiful time of the year when people are filled with Christmas spirits and joy. Most homes are filled with lights and decorations and just strolling around town feels magical. There are carols and Christmas trees and Santa Claus all over the neighborhood. But which is the best place to celebrate Christmas? If you happen to be in the state of Mississippi during this joyous holiday season here are some places you can celebrate Christmas in Mississippi.
1. Cleveland.
Cleaveland is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Mississippi. The reason why this small but hip town is included in our list is because of their light festival. The 50 nights of light in downtown Cleveland is one of the biggest attractions during the Christmas season.
It is this massive decoration of over 1,000,000 lights that transforms the entire place into an illuminated winter wonderland and it will truly be a magical experience for you and your family. Definitely consider visiting this light show during Christmas Eve or Christmas Night for a fantastic experience.
2. Vicksburg
The Christmas celebrations in Vickburg are beyond beautiful and heart touching. The festivities start off with the Vicksburg Christmas Parade of Lights in early December. The parade goes through Washington Street between Belmont and Jackson streets with gorgeous floats and decorations.
There is another special program in Vicksburg called the Reindeer Run 5K with events such as 5K run, 5K walk, 1-Mile Fun Run, Holiday Pet Parade and Post-Race Party. You can either participate or just watch and encourage the participants.
Christmas in the Park is a great way to get the whole family in the Christmas spirit. Come to the park between late November and late December to listen to stories from Santa Claus. Children can also take part in other activities. You can also ride a trackless train, and enjoy live, music on Fridays and Saturdays. Tree lighting events kick off the festivities late in November. Overall it is an amazing town to spend your Christmas in Mississippi.
3. Gulfport
The Harbour Lights in Gulfport is a must-visit during the Christmas season. You can either enjoy the lights simply strolling through the place or can even hope on a free trolly ride. There is a Santa Village where you can visit the Christmas father every night and also take pictures with the Elves. There are several carnivals rides you to enjoy.
In order to tackle the cold, warm yourself up by having a hot chocolate and some marshmallows. Other warm and delicious goodies are also available. It is certainly a great way to celebrate Christmas in Mississippi. To know more visit https://gulfportharborlights.com/
4. Oxford
You might probably be wondering what is a city in England doing here? Well, let me enlighten you, we also have a city called Oxford in Mississippi which actually named after the British city of its name. Not as famous as the one in the UK nor does it have a ceratin widely popular university, but what Oxford, Mississippi does have are some amazing Christmas celebrations.
They have the annual holly jolly celebrations which include Caricature drawings and Carriage rides. There is also ice skating involved in the festivities. For the Holly Jolly Christmas celebrations, you can write letters to Santa through a mailbox.
There are also other events such as live Ice carving, Holiday Art Market, and Santa’s Visit. The events of the festival may vary from year to year and you might never know what beautiful experience you will have here. To know more visit https://visitoxfordms.com/hollyjolly/.
5. Olive Branch
Although Mississippi is known for Southern hospitality, the residents of Olive Branch go above and beyond simply welcoming you to your holiday vacation rental. Christmas in the city begins with an annual parade featuring live performances by local musicians, a viewing of gorgeous Clydesdale horses, festively decorated motorcycles, and of course, Santa Claus and Mrs Claus.
In the Old Towne centre of the city, you can sample Southern cuisine and purchase handmade gifts from vendors lining the streets. Olive Branch is the perfect destination for a holiday getaway where you can take your children on a train ride with Santa or enjoy a carriage ride with your loved one.
6. Hattiesburg
Everybody’s favourite spot to visit during Christmas in Mississippi is the Hattiesburg Zoo. What is the reason behind this? Let us find out. Just like the rest of the state, during December time, the Hattiesburg zoo has great decorations and offers a fun time to its visitors.
So what can you do at the Hattiesburg Zoo during the festive month? Well, first of all, it is a zoo, so you can see various animals. Besides that, you can enjoy the fun activities and events that happen particularly during Christmas month. Enjoy their gorgeous decorations and hope the rides with your kids for a fun family holiday night. You can also visit Santa Claus and tell him stories at the zoo.
7. Canton
Canton is so adorned with shimmering lights around the holidays that it’s dubbed the “City of Lights.” It’s also known as the most festive town during Christmas in Mississippi. The main highlight in the town during Christmas time is the Canton Christmas Festival. During this time, the stores and houses are decorated with magical lights which will awaken your Christmas spirits.
The festival features carousels and a ride around the city in trollies. There are also 135 life-size animated figures decked out for the holidays at Canton Animation Museum’s Winter Wonderland. Don’t forget to explore downtown Canton to see the city’s decorated trees. Canton is the perfect place for you to hang out with your family and friends and celebrate Christmas in Mississippi.
8. Biloxi
Beaches go along with everything. So are you ready to celebrate your Christmas at the Gulfcoast? Then head over to Biloxi this Christmas season. The city hosts a Christmas on the Water celebration every year. The activities included are a visit from Santa, water parades, and arts and crafts activities. The main attraction is the Christmas boat ride starting from Biloxi Lighthouse to the Point Cadet. In the evening you can witness some beautiful fireworks. With celebrations on both land and water, you get the best of both worlds during your Christmas in Mississippi here.
Also, Check Out Best 101 Guide to the Quebec Winter Carnival
