Saturday, May 2
■ Starkville Community Market: The Starkville Community Market is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fire Station Park, located at the intersection of Russell and Lampkin streets. The market features local produce, handmade crafts, and floral arrangements. For more information, visit starkville.org.
■ Market Street Festival: Columbus Main Street hosts the annual Market Street Festival from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Columbus. The festival features hundreds of arts and crafts vendors, multiple stages for live music, and a large variety of food options. For a full schedule of activities and a map of the event, visit marketstreetfestival.com.
■ “Express Yourself!” Art Auction: Mississippi State’s T.K. Martin Center for Technology and Disability hosts its fifth annual art show and auction “Tea Party” from 10 a.m. to noon at the center, 326 Hardy Road. The event features original artwork by the center’s Express Yourself! artists, including paintings, prints, greeting cards, and ceramics. Proceeds from the silent auction benefit creative art programs for individuals with disabilities.
■ Starkville Touch-A-Truck: The Sudduth Elementary PTO hosts its “Touch-A-Truck” event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Greenfield Street in Starkville. Attendees can explore more than 30 large vehicles and equipment displays. Quiet hours, featuring no honking or sirens, will be observed from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to accommodate those sensitive to loud noises. Admission is $5 per child; children under 1 are admitted free.
■ Meet Author Helen Taylor: Liberation’s Publishing LLC hosts a book showcase and meet-and-greet with author Helen Taylor from 2-6 p.m. at Level III, 117 E. Main St. in downtown Starkville. Taylor, the founder of Brickfire and a longtime community advocate, will present her book, “The Adventures of Mushak the Mouse.” The event features youth-centered programming and refreshments
■ Zach Bryan in Concert: Zach Bryan performs at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville as part of his “Quittin Time” tour. The concert features support from special guests Dijon and J.R. Carroll. For ticket information and show times, visit hailstate.evenue.net/events/ZBtour.

Sunday, May 3
■ Earth Day Fair: The MSU Student Sustainability Council presents an Earth Day Fair from noon to 4 p.m. at Firestation Park in Starkville. The celebration features live music, an art market, sustainable vendors, a clothing swap, and a puppy petting zoo. The event is open to the public as a way to celebrate environmental awareness with the community.
■ Wingo Pops Concert: The Starkville-MSU Symphony Orchestra closes its 2025-2026 season with “Swing, Strings and all that Jazz” at 2 p.m. in Bettersworth Auditorium in Lee Hall on the Mississippi State University campus. Tickets are available at starkvillesymphony.org
■ Spring Concert: The Columbus Girl Choir presents its annual spring concert at 4 p.m. in the Artz Fellowship Hall of First Methodist Church. The performance features a diverse repertoire of choral music. Admission is open to the public.

Monday, May 4
■ Starkville Friends of the Library Book Sale: The Friends of the Starkville Public Library hosts a book sale from 11:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. at the library, 326 University Drive. The event features a wide selection of books for all ages and interests, with proceeds supporting library programs and services.
■ Columbus Fire Chief Swearing-In: The City of Columbus hosts a swearing-in ceremony for new Fire Chief Charles D. Yarbrough at 5 p.m. at the Columbus Fire & Rescue Station 1, located at 523 Main St. The event is open to the public.

Wednesday, May 6
■ May Luncheon Fundraiser: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church hosts its annual May luncheon and bake sale from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 318 College St. The event features a selection of sweet and savory treats to benefit Episcopal Church Women ministries. Boxed lunches, including chicken salad or BBQ plates, are available for $15, and whole Boston Butts may be ordered for $35. The deadline to order boxed lunches is May 4, and Boston Butt orders must be placed by May 1. Proceeds support the church’s charitable missions. To order, visit stpaulscolumbus.com or call (662) 328-6673.

Thursday, May 7
■ National Day of Prayer: A local observance of the National Day of Prayer will be held from noon to 12:45 on the lawn of the Lowndes County Courthouse. The event features guest speaker Chuck Yarborough of MSMS, with praise music led by Bobby Sanderson and prayers from local pastors and community members. Seating is available, and in the event of rain, the program will move to the YMCA gymnasium. Second Avenue in front of the courthouse will be blocked, but buses and vans will be permitted to discharge passengers.

Friday, May 8
■ The Eighth of May Emancipation Celebration: Students from the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science, along with local schools and Mississippi University for Women, commemorate the legacy of area African Americans starting at 6 p.m. at Sandfield Cemetery. The program features song, spoken word and dramatic performances based on historical research to honor the date in 1865 when Union troops arrived to end slavery in Columbus. To learn more, visit themsms.org/8th-of-may-emancipation-celebration.
■ Comedy Dinner Theatre: Lion Hills Center hosts “The Detectives,” a comedy dinner theatre production, at 7 p.m. at 2331 Military Road in Columbus. The evening includes a multi-course meal paired with an interactive theatrical performance. For ticket information and reservations, contact Lion Hills Center.

Saturday, May 9
■ Hitching Lot Farmers’ Market Grand Opening and Kid’s Market: Main Street Columbus celebrates the season opening of the Hitching Lot Farmers’ Market from 7-10 a.m. at the corner of Second Street and Second Avenue North. In addition to local produce and sustainable goods, the event features a Kids’ Market where entrepreneurs ages 6-16 can sell homegrown and handmade items. For more information, visit hitchinglotfarmersmarket.com or call (662) 328-6305.
■ Partnering in the Park: Golden Triangle Tennis hosts “Partnering in the Park” from 9 a.m. to noon at Propst Park. The event offers community tennis drills and match play for various skill levels. Participation is free.
■ Mommy and Me Pilates: Lowndes County Recreation hosts a free “Mommy and Me” Pilates class at 9 a.m. at Crown Park. The session, led by Pilates with Cait, is designed for mothers, grandmothers, and expectant moms, and is safe for pregnant and postpartum participants. The event also features a “make your own flower bouquet” bar by Bailey & Bloom in celebration of Mother’s Day weekend. Participants are encouraged to bring their children or friends.
■ Tammy’s Ride for Camp Rising Sun: First Methodist Church Columbus serves as the starting point for “Tammy’s Ride,” a benefit for Camp Rising Sun, at 10 a.m. Participants will gather at 602 Main St. to raise funds for the local camp for children with cancer. For registration details and route information, visit the Camp Rising Sun Facebook page.
■ Art in the Gallery: The Columbus Arts Council hosts “All in the Same Breath” with sessions at 10:30 a.m. and noon at the Rosenzweig Arts Center. The event features art demonstrations and discussions. For more information, visit the Columbus Arts Council website.
■ Homeschool Yo Kids Expo: The Homeschool Yo Kids nonprofit organization hosts its national traveling expo from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the East Columbus Homeschool Resource Center, 515 N. Lehmberg Road in Columbus. The event is designed for those new to or considering homeschooling to learn about resources and support groups available in the Golden Triangle region. Members of the East Columbus Homeschool Organization (ECHO) will be present as exhibitors. For tickets or more information, visit homeschoolyokidsexpo.com.

Sunday, May 10
■ Fine Art Thesis Exhibition: The Mississippi State University Department of Art and Galleries present “10/10,” featuring the thesis work of this year’s fine art seniors. An opening public reception will be held from 2–4 p.m. in the Old Main Art Galleries, located in the Old Main Academic Center. The exhibition continues through Friday, May 15.

Monday, May 11
■ Lowndes County 4-H Tomato Plant Contest Meeting: The Mississippi State University Extension Service hosts an interest meeting for its 4-H Tomato Plant Contest at 6 p.m. at 485 Tom Rose Road in Columbus. For a $5 entry fee, participants receive two tomato plants to grow for the competition. RSVPs are required. For more information or to register, call (662) 328-2111.

Tuesday, May 12
■ Tourism Partners: Visit Columbus hosts a Tourism Partners meeting at 8:30 a.m. Community members and local stakeholders are invited to discuss regional tourism initiatives and upcoming events.
■ Hitching Lot Farmers Market: The Hitching Lot Farmers Market, located at the corner of Second Street and Second Avenue North, begins its Tuesday seasonal hours from 4–6 p.m. The market features locally grown produce, seasonal plants, baked goods and local crafts. For more information, call (662) 328-6305.

Thursday, May 14
■ Business After Hours: The Columbus Lowndes Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking event at 5 p.m. in Room 120 of the Education and Human Sciences Building at Mississippi University for Women, 520 S. 11th St. The gathering offers local professionals a relaxed environment to connect with food and drinks.
■ Gallery Opening Reception: The Columbus Arts Council hosts an opening reception for its May and June exhibition featuring the art of Michael Hand and William Weathers at 5:30 p.m. at the Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St. The event features new works from regional artists and is free and open to the public.
■ Barn Concert Series: The Barn Concert Series features Goldpine with special guest Remy Reilly at 7 p.m. at 136 Mac Davis Road in Columbus. The outdoor musical event encourages attendees to bring their own seating. For ticket information, visit the barnconcertseries.com.

Saturday, May 16
■ Barksdale’s Catfish Lakes 70th Anniversary Celebration: Barksdale’s Catfish Lakes hosts a day-long community celebration from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 130 Hillcrest Drive. Established in 1956, the facility celebrates 70 years of fishing and memories with free barbecue and chips for lunch and supper. The event features jumpers for children and door prizes awarded every hour. For more information, visit the Barksdale’s Catfish Lakes Facebook page.
■ Pride and Joy Car Show: The 35th annual “Cruisin’ the River” Pride and Joy Car Show takes place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lock and Dam East Bank. The event features classic car displays, awards and community activities. Entry is free for spectators.
■ Basket Workshop: The Columbus Arts Council hosts a hands-on basket weaving workshop with Anna at 9 a.m. at the Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St. The cost is $40 and all supplies are included. Pre-registration is required. For more information, call (662) 328-2787.
■ Benton Blue Bash: Benton’s Maintenance and Mechanical Inc. hosts a community fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 248 Chubby Drive in Columbus. The event features live music, food, snow cones, a petting zoo, inflatables, and a “Kids Trades Town” with interactive games. A cornhole tournament begins at 10:30 a.m. with a $20 registration fee per team. All proceeds support a community assistance fund in partnership with United Way to help local families with home repairs. For more information or to register for the tournament, visit form.jotform.com/260706835971061.
■ The Grape Gatsby: The Starkville Public Library hosts “The Grape Gatsby,” a vintage-themed fundraiser, at 6:30 p.m. at the library, 326 University Drive. The event features live music, dancing, food, and drinks. Proceeds benefit the library’s community service initiatives. Tickets may be purchased at the library circulation desk or online at socpls.square.site
■ Possum Town Throwdown: CPAC Promotions presents “The Last Man Standing” beginning at 7 p.m. at the Columbus Fairgrounds, 764 Hwy. 69 S. The event features a combat sports competition where fighters compete for a $1,500 grand prize. Open enrollment for participants is currently available online. For more information or to register, visit form.jotform.com/cpacpromotions/possum-town-throwdown.

Saturday, May 16-Sunday, May 17
■ Renaissance Faire: The Festival of the Fae’s Spring Renaissance Faire takes place from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at The Fae Grounds, 43 Luxilin Drive. The event features artisan vendors, immersive quests, and live entertainment. Admission is $10, and children 12 and under are admitted free. The festival continues Sunday, May 17, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday, May 21
■ Laymen’s Fellowship: The Northeast MS Baptist State Convention Inc. hosts a fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m. at Mt. Zion Church in New Hope, 1791 Lake Lowndes Road. The event features guest speaker Bro. Orlando Trainer, Laymen President. Dinner will be served. For more information, contact (662) 769-0071.

Saturday, May 23
■ Wrap ‘N’ Blend: The Columbus Arts Council and Taji Headwraps host a social event at 11 a.m. at the Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St. The event includes refreshments and pound cake. Registration is $50.

Sunday, May 24
■ Northside Charity Boil: Muddy Water Creative presents a charity crawfish boil from 12–5 p.m. at 803 5th Ave. N. in Columbus. The event benefits the Golden Triangle Homeless Coalition and features live music. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs and beverages.

Tuesday, May 26
■ Wellness Seminar: The Northeast MS Healthy Start Consortium hosts a perinatal mental health awareness seminar from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the education room at North Mississippi Medical Center-West Point, 150 Medical Center Drive. Attendees can learn about mental health awareness and discover steps for promoting wellness during the perinatal period. The event is free and open to the public.

Friday, May 29
■ Starkville Community Action Day: Prairie Opportunity Inc. hosts its annual Community Action Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at J.L. King Park in Starkville. The free community celebration features food, music, and activities for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, call (662) 323-3397.

Saturday, May 30
■ Pet Portrait Workshop: The Columbus Arts Council hosts a pet portrait painting workshop at 10 a.m. at the Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St. The cost is $45. Attendees must reserve their seat by May 20 at bridgetcruz.com.
■ The Great Fossil Chase: Main Street Columbus hosts “The Great Fossil Chase” from 3–6 p.m. at the Dr. John “Jack” Kaye Cretaceous Fossil Park. Participants wishing to race must bring their own inflatable dinosaur or shark costume. Sign-up for races is required by 4 p.m., with races beginning at 4:30 for various age groups ranging from 6 to 60+. For more information, call (662) 328-6305 or visit columbusmainstreet.com.

Saturday, July 4
■ Freedom Fest: Columbus Air Force Base presents a “Historic Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza and Open House” to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. The event features fireworks, live music, food trucks, a vendor market, and a beer garden. Entry is free and the event is open to the public.

Saturday, July 18
■ Dancing in the Park: KMG Creations presents the 17th annual “Dancing in the Park” from 9–11 a.m. at Fire Station Park, 503 E. Lampkin St. in Starkville. Performances begin at 9:30 a.m. and feature Latin Coast, the Starkville Steppers, and other local groups. In the event of rain, the celebration will be moved to Rick’s Cafe.