Local Fall Activities Guide
Chloe highlights some upcoming fall events to help you live your Stars Hollow dreams.
Especially during the fall, Clinton, Mississippi draws comparison to the fictitious town of Stars Hollow from the early 2000s hit TV series Gilmore Girls. One can practically smell Luke’s special pumpkin pancakes. Clinton and its neighboring towns host multiple events to put residents in the fall spirit. This fall activities guide, while not exhaustive, would make Taylor Doose proud.
So, put on “There She Goes” by The La’s and let’s dive in!
Clinton
Clinton is bursting with free and fun fall festivities. Main Street Clinton will host two free movie nights this year: Lady and the Tramp on October 11 and The Wizard of Oz on October 25. These films are sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia for simpler times. Attendees can either bring dinner or grab a bite from one of the nearby restaurants. The screenings are also ideal for enjoying ice cream from Coach’s Creamery.
Next up, 303 Jefferson will host a Harry Potter trivia night on October 17 for the wizards and witches of Clinton.
Finally, Clinton’s annual Holiday Olde Town Market will round out the season on November 9.
For a full list of events and more information, visit https://clintonms.org/eventscalendar/.
Jackson
There’s plenty to do in Mississippi’s capital city, but in the fall, its biggest draw is the Fair. The Mississippi State Fair is set for October 3-14 in Jackson at the Fairgrounds. Entry fees are $10. Pre-sale tickets are $8 if bought before October 3. The Fair features a variety of delicious treats for all to enjoy, but the standout has to be the fried Oreos—something we think Lorelai and Rory would absolutely love! For an additional ticket price, fairgoers can attend the Fair concerts, which include the Oak Ridge Boys (Oct. 5), Matthew West (Oct. 6), Ronnie McDowell (Oct. 9), and Dru Hill (Oct. 11).
Canton
If Clinton has a charming small-town rival, it’s probably Canton. Perhaps the Woodbury to Stars Hollow? Canton’s biannual Fall Flea Market will take place on October 10. Over a thousand small business vendors from all over the country sell their goods and services. Just a 40-minute drive from Clinton, Canton offers several historic sites, trails, and museums that might also interest visitors.
Vicksburg
Vicksburg might have a monopoly on spooky things to do this fall. Being the location of the infamous Battle of Vicksburg does make it the perfect haunting ground for ghosts (hopefully friendly ones like Casper).
The McRaven House claims itself to be Vicksburg’s “most haunted mansion.” The house offers a variety of tours, but it will offer special $25 Candlelight Tours after dark on October 18, 19, 25, and 26. Find more information about the McRaven House at mcraventourhome.com.
For theater lovers, the Vicksburg Theatre Guild will be putting on Twisted Tales of Terrors. The show follows Claudia, the Guardian of Dark Tales, as she reinvents classic spooky stories such as Dracula and Jekyll and Hyde. Performances are set for October 25-27 and November 1-3. To find out more information, visit twisted.htm.
DIY & Free Activities
Because college students like living large on a small budget, here are some cheaper options:
Make pumpkin art. Whether painting, carving, or modge-podging stickers, it’s a relaxing activity to do with friends. Maybe, put on Gilmore Girls, You’ve Got Mail or Halloweentown while doing it!
Catch a free concert at MC. Student Engagement has invited Happy Landing to campus for a performance on October 11. Make sure to follow @misscollege.students on Instagram for more details.
Hit the trail. There are a variety of trails to walk or run near campus, including the Natchez Trace trails, the Clinton Nature Center, and Buddy Butts Park. There’s nothing like a nice walk in cool weather to reduce stress and boost serotonin levels.
Host a Friendsgiving. There’s nothing like picnicking on the Quad with close friends. Charcuterie board parties are a fun alternative to an actual turkey dinner.