- August in Mississippi is more than just going back-to-school.
The excitement of summer is over. Perhaps the oppressive heat is responsible for the buzzkill, or maybe it’s shopping for back-to-school.
But honestly, August can be a month filled with events that could take you around the state for a last hoorah before the school year begins. So get out of your air-conditioned house and see what fun a Mississippi August can be!
August 8 – 17th Annual Citywide Scavenger Hunt – Hernando

Get a team of four together (one person to be the driver) and go for the gold!
Scavenger hunters will meet at the Gale Center at 8:30 a.m., and the hunt begins at 9 a.m. Teams must solve the clues provided, visit area merchants, and retrieve specific items along the way. The first team to successfully complete the family-friendly hunt will hold the honor of being this year’s grand champions.
The hunt is organized by Hernando Parks and Recreation. Learn more here.
Through August 23 – Giants of the Ice Age Exhibition – Jackson

If the heat is getting you down, head to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science to see the Giants of the Ice Age exhibition.
Travel back in time to experience 12 full-sized, scientifically accurate Ice Age animals. Visitors will be able to hear them breathe, gnash their teeth, and watch them look around the exhibit and wave their tails.
August 8 – Mississippi Gulf Coast Book Festival – Gulfport

Avid readers, head to the Mississippi Gulf Coast Book Festival, a free, family-friendly event celebrating books, literacy, storytelling, and community.
Spend the day connecting with local authors, exploring unique vendors, enjoying live entertainment, and participating in engaging activities for children and families. Guests can also enjoy food, drinks, and special experiences designed to inspire a love of reading and learning.
See more about the event here.
August 13 – Singer-Songwriter Night – Meridian

Enjoy an intimate evening of live music and conversation hosted by Drew Young, featuring Cary Hudson (Blue Mountain) and Shelby Kemp (Royal Horses).
“Back Roads & Back Stories” is a free event and will be held at the Mississippi Arts & Entertainment Experience (The MAX) from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Learn more here.
August 14 – ‘Sip Stroll – Vicksburg

Ever wonder what it would be like to walk across the largest river in the United States?
You can do just that on August 14 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Start at the Mississippi Welcome Center (I-20 exit 1) and walk across the Old Mississippi River Bridge. Visit ‘Sip Stroll to learn more.