The vibrant coastal towns of Mississippi come alive in the fall with a plethora of festive activities that you simply cannot miss. The pleasant autumn weather in this region makes it an ideal time to enjoy the many outdoor festivals and events. If you’re searching for the best fall activities to partake in this weekend or any time at all, consider planning a visit to experience the beauty of this season.
Exciting Outdoor Festivals
To truly embrace the fall spirit, make sure to include one of Coastal Mississippi’s lively outdoor festivals on your itinerary.
On September 14, indulge in the flavors of the sea at the Annual Biloxi Seafood Festival, where you’ll find entertainment, arts and crafts, along with the finest seafood the coast has to offer. Following that, on September 21, the Festival Hispano in Pascagoula kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month with a vibrant celebration filled with live music, performances, delicious food, vendors, and much more.
Mark your calendars for November 9-10, when Gulfport hosts the Scottish Highland Games & Celtic Music Festival, offering two days packed with Scottish culture, food, traditional bagpipe music, Celtic dance, and competitive athletics.
Fun Fall Activities
From October 6-13, visitors flock to experience one of Coastal Mississippi’s most popular fall events: the Annual Cruisin’ the Coast. Here, thousands of classic cars gather for a week full of rock ‘n’ roll, sock hops, swap meets, and performances all along the coast.
But cruising is just the beginning! Other exciting seasonal highlights include the Annual Boo in the Bay Parade, taking place in Bay St. Louis on October 19, and Gulfport’s Annual Mardi Paw Cluster Dog Show from November 1-3, featuring over 700 dogs competing for the title of “Best In Show.”
Artisan Craft Fairs
Autumn also provides a wonderful backdrop for exploring artisan craft fairs in search of unique treasures. Weekly options abound, including The Pass Market and the Cat Island Art Market in Pass Christian on Saturday mornings, as well as The Beach Market in Gulfport on Sunday afternoons.
Don’t miss the annual Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival in Ocean Springs, where artists, craftspeople, and delicious food vendors from across the country come together to display their creations at the largest arts festival in Mississippi and the entire Gulf Coast!
For those seeking even more fun, check out the Late Night Gallery & Waveland Food Truck Friday on the second Friday of each month and Bay St. Louis’ Annual Mermaids Arts & Crafts Show on November 9-10.
Fantastic Foodie Experiences
The flavors of fall in Coastal Mississippi draw food enthusiasts from near and far. With dishes ranging from aromatic bouillabaisse to hearty French onion soup and generous portions of gumbo, local eateries present a delightful array of fresh culinary offerings that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
This fall, head to Gulfport for the annual Gumbo Fest, where you can savor delicious gumbo while enjoying live music and browsing local art from vendors. Whether you’re participating in the cook-off or just sampling the treats, it’s a flavorful celebration the entire family will enjoy.
If you’re hoping to bring home some local produce, don’t miss the Sunset Farmers Market in Diamondhead, where you can select from a variety of fresh fruits, honey, seafood, jams, and baked goods that showcase the best of the season.
Helpful Travel Tips
From Waveland to Pascagoula, the towns along the Mississippi coast are prime destinations this autumn. When planning your trip, be sure to check the current events calendar for a comprehensive list of all the exciting fall activities happening on the Gulf.
Fall foliage seekers should plan their visit for the latter part of the season, as the autumn colors typically peak in late November when the weather is pleasantly cool. To fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area, explore Mississippi’s stunning biking and hiking trails.
Coastal Mississippi truly comes to life during this delightful season. Be sure to book your hotel accommodations in advance to ensure you don’t miss out!
