In Natchez, there’s something for everyone. It’s just what happens when you have a city brimming with centuries of stories and traditions, held within the preserved structures of the past, and surrounded by some of the most stunning natural vistas in the South.
Through summer and all through fall, the Bluff City gears up with a slate of events that draws hundreds—even thousands—of visitors to the Bluff in pursuit of shared passions that range from bicycling, to balloons, to live music, fine food, and journeys deep into the region's distinctive history. So, mark your calendars and get ready to meet your people, right here, high above the Mississippi.
June 7: YP Natchez Bicycle Classic
Revived in 2020 after nearly twenty years of dormancy, the Natchez Bicycle Classic has historically held claim to one of the most interesting bicycle races in the South. Taking riders through the thick of Natchez summer foliage, down Cemetery Road, through ravines, and past historic sites like the Devil’s Punchbowl and Christ Church, the experience is described as more of a “touring ride” than a race. Riders can embark on journeys 15, 26, 40, and 63 miles long, as well as down a 48.5 multi-surface path of particular intrigue. The starting line is on Broadway on top of the bluff, the Mississippi River in all its glory as inspiration. Make it to the end, and reward yourself with a post-ride party Natchez-style (with live music, delicious food, and alcoholic beverages). 8 am–11 am. Registration is $65. natchezbicycleclassic.com.
July 25–27: Natchez Food & Wine Festival
Historically the very first event of its kind in Mississippi—leading the charge for a rich culture of culinary showcases across the region—the Natchez Food & Wine Festival has been drawing first class chefs to the city since the 1990s. Today one of the premier food festivals in the South, the city-wide celebration takes place in historic venues across Natchez and spotlights the hottest chefs and purveyors in the region. It all begins on Friday night at the “Tastings Along the River” event, this year emceed by Chef Jay Ducote of Baton Rouge. Famous for selling out early, this tasting fair challenges dozens of local chefs to showcase their creativity in the form of small plates, paired with spirits and craft beer tastings.
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Mojo Mudd Band
With refreshed palates on Saturday, guests can choose from a selection of events taking place across Natchez. There’s mixology classes at Smoot’s Grocery, hosted by Coastal Cocktail Consultant T Francis, and a wine & cheese tasting at the circa 1790s Castle at Dunleith. Enjoy brats and beer at the Natchez Brewing Co. at sunset, or bourbon and blues at Big Muddy Inn. Or, indulge in one of three chef’s dinners, featuring multi-course menus prepared by some of the finest chefs in the region. Tickets for events range from $40 to $125. natchezfoodandwine.com.
Stanton Hall
September 25–October 18: Natchez Pilgrimage
This long-held tradition in Natchez, now taking place over two weeks, is hosted by the preservation groups, the Pilgrimage Garden Club and The Natchez Garden Club—each dedicated to restoring and preserving the city’s historical sites. Visitors to the city are welcomed across the thresholds of mansions and historic sites—often by the original owners’ descendants themselves, who will educate on the stories of the people who lived there and share details about their ongoing preservation. Some sites on this year’s tour include Stanton Hall, Longwood, Magnolia Hall, Choctaw Hall, The Towers, The House on Ellicott’s Hill, and many more. Tours take place all day, each day, and can be enhanced by walking tours through the city or carriage rides. Plan your route at visitnatchez.org.
October 17–18: Natchez Balloon Fest
Come into town in October, and you’ll quickly see the town’s zeal for this annual tradition—with colorful hot air balloon murals festooning every window, miniature balloons on the porches, flags waving from the balconies. Established in 1986, this gathering draws the whole town, plus hundreds of visitors—many of them who make the yearly pilgrimage religiously—to the grounds of the historic Rosalie Mansion, right on the bluff. It all begins Friday evening with a balloon glow, adding a whimsical ambience to the already-breathtaking scenery of the sun setting over the Mississippi River. It’s all the charm of a small-town fair, amplified by a lineup of stellar local musical acts. Wake up early on Saturday to spot the traveling aeronats dotting the big, blue sky, and secure the best seats on the fairgrounds. The festival, named the “Best in Mississippi” benefits the Historic Natchez Foundation, the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society, Hoofbeats & Pawprints Rescue, Spay/Neuter Natchez, the Vidalia Women’s Club, and Leadership Natchez. Weekend passes are $35 in advance; $45 at the gate. natchezballoonfestival.com.
Learn about more upcoming events in Natchez at visitnatchez.org.
