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Don’t Miss This Weekend in Laurel

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Visiting Downtown Laurel soon? Let us do the planning.

The weekend you don’t want to miss is April 16th-18th, 2021. Not only are we celebrating Laurel Main Street’s Crawfest, but several other special events are taking place, as well.

Here’s everything you need to know:

Where to Stay

Laurel has some of the best accommodations you can find! We recommend staying at a local Airbnb. Why stay at a hotel when you could stay in our Historic District?

The Laurel Cottages | Airbnb

Our dear friends, Mallorie and Jim Rasberry, host one of the most gorgeous stays in town. Located in the heart of our Historic District, The Laurel Cottages make for a convenient and cozy home-base while you’re in town.

Chez Bird Dog | Airbnb

Who wouldn’t want to stay in a home that was featured on HGTV’s Home Town? Guess what: You can!

The Bell Family, owners of Bird Dog Café, have listed Elliot’s apartment from the show on Airbnb. Great stay? Check. Great coffee and food? Double check.

Visit Airbnb to check out all the incredible lodgings available in Laurel. We’re sure you’ll find the perfect stay for you.

What to Do

Yes, everything on this flyer is happening April 16th-18th! Screenshot it and refer to it all weekend long.

Your Personal Laurel Itinerary

Laurel is a hot-spot weekend destination, so it can be difficult for out-of-towners to keep track of everything to do. No worries! We’re here to help. (Let’s see how many events on this flyer we can fit in.)

Thursday

Assuming you make it here before supper time, we recommend you start with dinner at The Loft on Central Avenue. The Loft is an absolute staple of the Downtown Laurel community, and because it’s so well-loved, it can get very crowded on the weekends. If you want to stop by and eat, you might want to go before Friday-Saturday.

Photo by Wade Davis July 2020 | The Loft on Central Ave’s Patio

After filling up on steak bites and wine, head on down to 320FifthStreet for some drinks, bar snacks, and live entertainment for your late night escapades.

MCE Photography | 320FifthStreet

Next, rest your head in your cozy, local Airbnb to get your beauty rest for the craziness of the weekend ahead of you!

Friday

Our first stop is Bird Dog Café to fuel the day. They are our earliest opener at 6:30 AM. Grab a coffee and a breakfast taco, and we’re on our way!

If you’re an early riser, this would be a great time to take a stroll Downtown and through the Historic District before it gets crowded. Not to mention, before it heats up!

Local’s Tip: Most retail stores open at 10AM. Although, a few do open at 9.

Benefitting Laurel’s Domestic Abuse Family Center and hosted by The Pinehurst Rathskeller Gallery, En Plein Air will be happening all around town for 2 days! Artists of all ages from all over Mississippi will be set up just about everywhere painting their perspectives of our City Beautiful.

Make sure to stop by The Pinehurst Rathskeller Gallery Friday or Saturday to purchases pieces from the artists and to shop other resident works in the gallery. More on the Rathskeller here:

Our Feature
May be an image of food and text that says 'EN PLEIN HOSTED BY THE PINEHURST RATHSKELLER AIR LAU MISSISSIPPL'
En Plein Air | The Pinehurst Rathskeller

Next, let’s head on down to The Remnant! Their Spring Gleaning Sale is happening Friday and Saturday, 9AM-5PM. The main thing you need to know is how amazing their prices are. It’s not your average thrift-store! *This is a non-profit organization, benefiting Dwell: A Transitional Women’s Home.*

From The Bennie Bloomer’s Facebook

During this incredible sale, everyone’s favorite floral truck, The Bennie Bloomer, will be right outside! Grab yourself a bouquet of blooms, and keep on keepin’ on.

Head on back towards the Downtown area, and shop til’ you drop, but make sure you stop for lunch. And don’t scrimp on dessert. The bread pudding is divine.

Local’s Tip: Erin’s favorite dish at Café La Fleur is the Cuban sandwich.

Taken from Café La Fleur’s Facebook

After lunch, we know you’re going to want to walk off that delicious food. We suggest hitting some more shopping destinations, as well as “Junkin’ in the Streets” hosted by The Rusty Chandelier and The Laurel Leaf. It’ll be an incredible opportunity to shop unique street vendors on the 300 block of Central Avenue.

By now, it’s likely you’ll be ready for dinner. Tired? You need pasta. Mimmo’s is the place to carb-load (or eat healthy, but that’s on you) on house-made fresh bread and oil, pizza, and pasta. This place is authentic and delicious.

Taken From Mimmo’s Facebook

Saturday

First things first: go get a sticky bun. Sweet Somethings Bakery has amazing pastries. After, stop by Lee’s Coffee & Tea for a to-go coffee!

Taken From Sweet Somethings’ Facebook

Before Crawfest, you should bounce on over to New Look on Short 7th Avenue, and Peddler’s Junktion on Carroll Gartin Boulevard. *Both are walkable or drive-able.

New Look will have local artists at their Outdoor Vendors Day, and Peddler’s Junktion is having their annual Spring Cleaning Flea Market! Both stores have great indoor shopping, as well.

Now is the time…for Crawfest!

Photos from 2019’s Crawfest | Laurel Main Street

11AM-3PM, all you can eat crawfish and sides, beer, live music, and more! This is one of Laurel’s best events, and you can get tickets now from Laurel Main Street.

Crawfest Tickets

While you’re at Crawfest, make sure to give our Front Street businesses some love! Stop by Lott Furniture Co., The Bookstore in the Window, The Laurel Leaf, and The Pinehurst Rathskeller.

If you don’t want to eat at Crawfest, stop by Ribeye Sandwich Day at The Knight Butcher or The5000! Both will have live music during lunch.

If you can eat another bite, you should stop by Texas Pittmaster BBQ for dinner. Their food is to die for. You don’t want to miss it while you’re here!

Taken from Texas Pittmaster’s Facebook

Sunday

Before you leave, there’s just a few more things you must hit!

Lauren Rogers Museum of Art is free (donations highly encouraged), and full of beautiful art and architecture to view. It’s a great place to wind down after a long weekend before taking your trip back home.

Taken from Lauren Rogers Museum of Art’s Facebook

If you haven’t stopped by Laurel Mercantile Co. or Scotsman General Store yet, they are both open on Sunday! If you’re lucky, you might see Ben & Erin. Home Town often films in the woodshop.

From Facebook

Need a sweet treat for the road? Your very last stop should be Shug’s Cookie Dough & Candy Bar (if you haven’t already been there 10 times on this trip) for a milkshake, candy, or edible cookie dough. Maybe the sugar high will get you through the drive or flight.

Taken from Shug’s Facebook

We hope you enjoyed this itinerary for a weekend in Downtown Laurel, and we can’t wait to see you!

****Even though it may not seem possible, there are lots more businesses to visit that were not specifically mentioned. Go here to find out more and explore special activities and shop hours for the weekend. Just click the directory tab.

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Casting for HGTV Home Town

Do you want to be on HGTV’s Home Town?

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Casting HGTV Home TownAre you thinking about moving to Laurel? You could be cast on Home Town, get to know Ben & Erin, and – most importantly – get to call our sweet small-town home!

Just for you, we reached out to our friends at HGTV and RTR Media to give you all of the inside info about what it takes to be on the show! Here’s what they had to say:

How to apply to be cast on HGTV’s Home Town

“When it comes to applying to be on Home Town, be prepared to sell yourself! We’re looking for outgoing characters who love to tell a good story and are passionate about wanting to live in Laurel.

The process is pretty simple if you’re interested in being on the show – just send an email to hometowncasting@rtrmedia.com. That’s it! Well… not really, but it’s a darn good start.”

What HGTV needs to know about you:

“In the email, we’d love to know a little about yourself, your family and why you’re moving to Laurel. We’d also like to know if you’ve recently bought a house, or have your eye on one or don’t know where to start and need some help. We are looking for homes of all types, shapes, and sizes in Laurel and require that you have a renovation budget that fits the needs of your new home. Let us know what you’re looking for in your new home!”

The Home Town casting process:

“If your story sounds like a good fit, we’ll have you fill out an application form, and that’s when the excitement really begins. Since every situation is different, it could be the casting process takes 6 weeks or it could be 6 months. The amount of time depends on many factors and we’ll work those out together. For that reason, we encourage everyone to reach out and let us know the who, what and whens of their move to Laurel.”

Apply to be on Home Town today!

Send an email right now to hometowncasting@rtrmedia.com to see if you might be a good fit for Home Town!

Be sure to include:

  1. Your story – tell them all about yourselves!
  2. Why are you moving to Laurel?
  3. Are you looking for a Laurel home, or recently purchased one?
  4. Do you have a budget for the renovations your home needs/may need?

Want to find out more about what it’s like to say “I Live in Laurel?” Click here to see some of our favorite parts of our very own hometown!

Tommy Sherrell, custom upholsterer working at his studio in Downtown Laurel, MS.

Laurel’s Home Town Folks

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Lee’s Coffee & Tea; Laurel MS

There’s a few things that Home Town folks really love; food, family, community––and hosting some company!

It’s true that we have a tight-knit community. Our folks know each other by name, shop locally, and try to promote each other the best we can.

A lot of visitors tell us that we’re so charming that they don’t want to leave! Others decide to make Laurel their forever home.

But even if you don’t want to move in with us, the least we can do is take care of you while you’re here!

Home Town Treatment

Like I said, our people can’t be beat when it comes to Southern hospitality. When you arrive, we’ve got your itinerary covered. Stop by the Laurel Welcome Center first to get the scoop on our walking tour of the Historic District, brochures for things to do in surrounding areas, and some historical info you may not know!

LOCALS TIP: Ask any merchant where you can find a map of Downtown Laurel! This will come in great use to you.

After you’re rightfully welcomed, make your way around town and visit our local merchants! Those are the people who will make you feel right at home.

LOCALS TIP: You may see a few friendly and familiar faces! A few of our local merchants were featured on HGTV Home Town. Grab a selfie with them!

And last, make sure to stay at one of our local airbnb’s. You may even score some treats from Sweet Somethings Bakery or a home-cooked breakfast!

Folks Who Loved Laurel

For proof that our Home Town charm is real, we included some testimonies of visitors from all over! (Even Canada!)

“We fell in love with Laurel MS!! We live in Nashville and decided to see if what we see on the show is legit. It is!! ???We walked and drove all over (blisters to prove it), and I can’t stop thinking about it. The charm is for real. The people so friendly. We will visit again.?” -Tricia Haux Baxter; Posted in HGTV Home Town Fan Group

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We spent all day today exploring my parent’s hometown of Laurel, MS. . I grew up visiting Laurel every summer and major holiday, but in the last decade or so most everyone has moved away from town and we haven’t been back too often. . Laurel has been getting some really cool national attention for the HGTV show ‘Hometown’ and a lot of neat stores are going in the downtown. . Today was such a fun trip down memory lane to see tons of spots I knew and loved plus some new and gorgeous shops that have arrived. . We also spent a good thirty minutes driving up and down every street in town so my mother could tell us the names of 75% of the houses’ former occupants and regale us with tales of sneaking in that ones backyard or secretly riding that one’s elevator up and down until someone’s mama came home or praying that one’s owner didn’t call her mother… again. (In other news – I now totally blame my mother and my husband for Bowen’s wild streak) . It was so fun to hear the history of a town that has so much meaning to our family. Laurel, we love ya! . #Laurel #LaurelMS #Mississippi #HGTV #HGTVHometown

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“Visiting my childhood hometown for the day and got to meet Miss Pearl! Loved seeing Laurel come alive again!” -Kathy Myrick Reid; Posted in HGTV Home Town Fan Group

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I loooove Laurel, and am pretty sure you will too. ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ It's the hometown of @hgtv 's "Home Town" TV show #saythatfivetimesfast and is just the cutest lil small town you ever did see. Plus, the food is wonderful and the people are friendly >> prepare to be hugged by complete strangers bearing large plates of fried everything. #heaven ♡ ♡ ♡ Sharing travel notes + #foodporn pics from our trip down to Laurel over on the blog. Head over to @motivatedgeny and click the link in bio to read! ♡ ♡ ♡ #laurelms #hgtvhometown #hgtvaddict #millennialtravel #mississippi #liveinlaurel #mississippilife #travelblogger #smalltownusa #madeinmississippi #historicdowntown #ohtheplacesyoullgo #mainstreetamerica

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“Laurel is a lovely town. We enjoyed every moment, from last night ‘s Home Town season 2 finale, Miss Pearl’s diner and a wonderful conversation with Josh. We were treated like royalty when the chamber of Commerce saw where I put my pin to show where we’re from: Oshawa Ontario Canada. They gave us a shout out and asked us to stand. Some of Laurel ‘s citizens stopped by with welcome words. So, Canada stop by Laurel. You won’t be disappointed. ?” -Valdeen Button; Posted in HGTV Home Town Fan Group

“We are from Parkland, FL and enjoyed the first part of our adult spring break in Laurel. We have a lot going on in our hometown right now and it was nice to relax here in Laurel. It was as sweet of a town as the show portrays it! We loved it!” -Pam Turner; Posted in HGTV Home town Show Followers

The Home Town experience is one that you need to come enjoy in-person! We’d love to have you anytime. Don’t be a stranger!

Don’t know when to make your trip? Here’s the best times to visit Laurel.

Love Laurel? Sign up in the blue box to get weekly updates and follow our Instagram for more Laurel fun! 

How Erin Napier helped Laurel become “The City Beautiful” once again.

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You know Erin Napier from Home Town on HGTV, where she renovates once-beautiful historic homes in Laurel, Mississippi with her husband, Ben. But did you know that she also played a significant part in returning Downtown Laurel to its former beauty?

Years ago Erin, and others like her, began to see a beautiful future for Laurel. And they set out to make it a reality.

Downtown Laurel, 1980’s

Their challenge? To repair the damage done during the period of Urban Renewal from the 1950’s to 1970’s, which turned inviting, historic downtowns throughout the United States into ugly, covered “shopping-malls” and destroyed their historic facades and charm.

Laurel After Urban Renewal - A Ghost Town

Restoring Downtown Laurel, MS

Throughout Downtown Laurel, buildings were transformed with Erin’s stunning design work – not only to hide the empty buildings but also to give folks like you a glimpse into our culture and history.

Famous People of Laurel Murals by Erin Napier

Famous People of Laurel Murals by Erin Napier

Erin told us:

“A big step in erasing urban renewal would be making it seem it had never occurred at all. I designed “ghost signs” and murals that would point to an era predating the aluminum facades and remind people of the beauty hidden underneath.”

– Erin Napier, Star of Home Town on HGTV

Visit Laurel Mural by Erin Napier

Visit Laurel Mural by Erin Napier

As local folks saw Downtown transforming into something beautiful, they started to have beautiful ideas of their own. Buildings began to fill with new businesses, foot traffic increased and soon – a certain TV network came to call.

Laurel-Jones County Library Mural by Erin Napier

Laurel-Jones County Library Mural by Erin Napier

Now, we see tourists gather every day for photos in front of Erin’s iconic “Welcome to Downtown Laurel, MS” mural to commemorate their trip to a city reborn.

And it all started with the ideas of a few, creative folks who set out to love on our little hometown.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSYuS6tBNLm/

When to plan your trip to Laurel, Mississippi

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There are so many fun things to do in our home town throughout the year, but if you aren’t a local like us – it can be hard to know when is the best time to plan your trip to visit Laurel.

We’ve collected a few of our favorite activities that are best enjoyed at specific times throughout the year. Read on to find the perfect time for your trip!

Jump to Spring
Jump to Summer
Jump to Fall
Jump to Winter

Planning a Spring trip to Laurel, MS

Springtime is quite possibly the very best time to visit Laurel. We will start to see warmer temperatures as early as February (some days even get up to 80 degrees), much sooner than most of the United States. Come thaw out with us and enjoy shopping in downtown boutiques with their doors opened wide to the breeze, and attend a variety of spring events and happenings throughout the city.

HGTV Home Town Season Premier & Finale Parties · Laurel Mercantile

FREE · HGTV HOME TOWN

The first essential tourist events are the outdoor parties held by the Home Town team for the season premiers and finales of the show. These events are open to the public and are a great opportunity to meet the folks behind the show, including Erin and Ben Napier! Join us for these uniquely-Laurel celebrations each year!

LOCAL’S TIP: Bring a chair and a big appetite! Thanks to local organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, these events feature a variety of awesome local food trucks and fare from our downtown eateries!

The Gardens of Laurel’s Historic District · 5th, 6th, 7th & Euclid Avenues

FREE · ACCESSIBLE

We love our gardens in the South, and we want to share their incredible beauty with you! Enjoy a walk under the towering oaks or simply take a drive through Laurel’s historic district to experience a variety of carefully tended gardens and flowering trees.

Visit Laurel, Mississippi for great family-friendly activities and gorgeous views!

Euclid Avenue and Park is one of the most featured areas on HGTV’s Home Town, and one of Laurel’s most darling neighborhoods.

LOCAL’S TIP: Stop by the Laurel Welcome Center at 401 Central Ave. to pick up the official “Walking Tour” brochure with step-by-step directions.

Touch A Truck · 2nd Saturday in April · Downtown Laurel

KID-FRIENDLY · SENSORY-FRIENDLY

Kids of all ages stand in awe of big, hard-working trucks and vehicles. Touch a Truck is a perfect activity to get up close and personal with all manner of tough giants. Looking for an activity for those with sensory sensitivities or children with autism? TAT features a special “quiet hour” designed to allow them to enjoy the fun, without the worry of loud horns or flashing lights.

LOCAL’S TIP: Buy your tickets early for a special discount. Click here for more info. Ticket sales go back into the community to fund restoration projects and to help make Downtown even more beautiful.

Downtown Crawfest · 3rd Saturday in April · Magnolia & Front St.’s

FAMILY-FRIENDLY · FREE ENTRY FOR KIDS UNDER 5

Have you ever experienced a southern crawfish boil? Here is your chance to get a taste of this fun experience as cooks of all experience levels go head to head to see who comes out as the official champion. Enjoy great local beverages, live music, and delicious food at this new Laurel event!

LOCAL’S TIP: This is a great opportunity to tour Downtown and visit local merchants such as Laurel Mercantile (Erin & Ben’s shop as featured on HGTV Home Town) and Lott Furniture on Front St, and the boutiques on Magnolia Street.

Day in the Park · 1st Saturday in May · Mason Park

FREE ADMISSION · KID-FRIENDLY

Every local kid grew up looking forward to that warm spring day where the whole family would load up in the car and drive down to Mason Park for a day of fun kids’ activities, local art, awesome arts & crafts vendors and great local music. Day in the Park is the perfect event for those planning an early May trip, where you and your family can truly experience Laurel like generations of local families have before.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTByr6TDm9P

LOCAL’S TIP: Bring a folding chair or blanket to sit in the grass under the pines and enjoy great food while listening to local artists and productions.

Visiting Laurel in the Summer

Headed down to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, or the Florida beaches? Stop into Laurel for great summer fun and amazing shopping. If there’s anything we know in South Mississippi, it’s how to do summer right!

Kids’ Activities & Playgrounds

KID-FRIENDLY

Let the littles stretch their legs and get out their wiggles with a stop in a Laurel. Click here for a full list of kids’ activities and playgrounds in Laurel, many within easy walking distance of downtown!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUe21UQlVDW/

LOCAL’S TIP: Mason Park has the best shade cover for warmer summer days, and the Laurel Sportsplex splash pad is easily accessible and free for a truly cooling experience.

Blues Bash · June · Lauren Rogers Museum of Art

LOCAL MUSIC · FAMILY-FRIENDLY

No trip to Mississippi is complete without experiencing the uniquely-southern sound of the blues. This annual event is a showcase of the best blues musicians Mississippi has to offer and a celebration of our long history of supporting America’s music.

LOCAL’S TIP: Click here to purchase tickets online before your trip.

4th of July Fireworks Shows · July · Downtown Laurel

FREE · FAMILY-FRIENDLY

The 4th of July Fireworks have long been a childhood staple in Laurel. Held each year at both the Sawmill Square Mall, and more recently, Jones Family Medicine Clinic – both shows are free and open to the general public.

LOCAL’S TIP: Watch the Sawmill Square show from Pinehurst Park in Downtown Laurel for a truly local experience, complete with refreshments!

Should you visit Laurel in the Fall?

After a long summer, Laurelites always welcome the cooler temperatures of the Fall. You’ll see lots of locals out and about, walking through the historic district, shopping in downtown shops, exploring their hometown and looking forward to the fun of festival season! Join us for these great fall events in Laurel!

The Loblolly Festival · 1st Saturday of October · Downtown Laurel

FREE · FAMILY-FRIENDLY

The Loblolly Festival is an absolute must for any trip to Laurel in the fall. Laurel’s biggest festival celebrates our history as a lumber town, complete with our beloved mascot – The Loblolly Lumberjack – played by the star of Home Town himself, Big Ben Napier! Make a special trip for this one, folks!

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Are you a #loblollylover? We are!

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LOCAL’S TIP: Park in the exterior parking lots around downtown, and be sure to leave some room in your car – you’re sure to leave with some great finds!

Deason Home Ghost Tours · Ellisville

HISTORY

The Deason Home holds secrets of one of the most interesting parts of Jones County’s history. Visit our neighboring town of Ellisville for this fun historical experience, and you might just meet a ghost while you explore our counties’ storied past.

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The Deason Home is the oldest home in Jones County (1845). On October 5, 1863,, Confederate Major Amos McLemore had been sent to the area to round up deserters and had been using the house as his headquarters. Newt Knight charged the house that night, shooting and killing McLemore. Blood still stains the floors of this home and it is considered one of the most haunted houses in the state. #tourism #southernliving #oldstuff #downtown #deasonhome #jonescounty #ellisvillems #freestateofjones #hauntedhouse #hauntedplace #haunted #newtknight #civilwar #amosmclemore #travel ##traveller #travelgram #travelwriter #travelblogger #travelphotography #ghosts #ghoststories #explore #explorethesouth #exploremississippi

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LOCAL’S TIP: Click here to learn more about the story behind The Deason Home, and why our home county is called the “Free State of Jones.”

The South Mississippi Fair · HWY 11

FAMILY-FRIENDLY · ARTS & CRAFTS

Laurel’s historic fairgrounds are never put to better use than when the fair comes to town! Folks travel from all over Mississippi to attend the 2nd largest fair in the state each fall. Enjoy the fun of the rides (check for unlimited armband nights for the best value), incredible local and traveling fair food, arts & crafts, livestock shows and live music!

LOCAL’S TIP: Visit during lunch hours for that delicious and addictive fair food, without an admission fee or the nighttime crowds.

Even winter is a great time to visit Laurel!

Have you ever experienced the holiday season in the south? You’re truly in for a treat if you are here for some of our most cherished annual events!

Kiwanis Pancake Day · 1st Saturday of December · YWCO & 1st Baptist

FAMILY-FRIENDLY · GREAT FOOD

Get ready for one of the quintessential local experiences! Pancake Day is a sign and symbol of what it is like to say #iliveinlaurel, as locals of all walks of life gather together for a meal before or after the annual Christmas Parade. Locals and visitors alike will line the sidewalks in anticipation of a delicious meal of pancakes with butter and syrup served with sausage and cooked up just right.

LOCAL’S TIP: Due to its popularity, the event is now held at two separate locations to accommodate the crowds. Check out the YWCO on Oak Street in downtown, or First Baptist Church on 6th Ave.

Sertoma Christmas Parade · 1st Saturday of December · Downtown Laurel

FAMILY-FRIENDLY · FREE

Did you know Laurel hosts the longest Christmas parade in the state of Mississippi? Join us the first Saturday in December for this morning parade that loops around the Sawmill Square Mall and through Downtown Laurel. You might even spy a jolly, white-bearded fellow with treats for the littles.

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Pancakes. Parade. Warm fuzzy feelings all around.

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LOCAL’S TIP: Come to downtown early to claim a spot, visit the shops and grab a hot coffee at Lee’s Coffee & Tea!

Christmas at the Village · Landrum’s · HWY 15 S

FAMILY-FRIENDLY · HISTORY

Landrum’s Homestead and Village, or “Landrum’s Country” to the locals, is a great attraction any time of the year, but it is most perfect during the holidays. Take a walk through a recreation of a historic southern town, complete with cabins, blacksmith demonstrations, and the most quaint little chapel all decorated for Christmas. This is an absolute must-visit for holiday tourists!

LOCAL’S TIP: Admission is $10 and walk-ins are welcome year-round.

Want to find out about more local Laurel events and happenings? Sign up for updates and follow us on Instagram for daily posts about our home town.

Skip the Hotels: The Most Charming Places to Stay in Laurel, MS

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There’s lots of things for us Laurelites to be proud of, and hospitality and charm are at the top of the list. What’s the best way to be hospitable? To host guests, of course! Most visitors will choose to stay in hotels, but we have a better idea.

Make Your Laurel Experience Unique

Why stay in a hotel, when you could stay in a one-of-a-kind BnB?

There’s many perks to this, including saving money.

Not only can you save money and walk right to all of your favorite Downtown Laurel destinations, but also make some long-lasting memories living like a local.

Frank & Flora: The Laurel Cottages

These sweet little cottages are in the heart of the historic district, and are decorated perfectly for a comfy, cozy stay.

They have all the amenities you need, and are just minutes from Downtown! We recommend taking a walk around the neighborhood while you’re here. The historic homes are a must see!

I mean, have you ever seen any hotels that look like this?

Local Tip: These cottages are owned and decorated by Mallorie Rasberry. She’s the brains behind the great store design and product procurement at Laurel Mercantile Co.! 

Book Now

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#fresh

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Let that sink in 😌

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Wisteria Bed & Breakfast

Wisteria is Laurel’s oldest BnB, and has been a staple of the Historic District for years. We love this place for its history and its amazing location on 5th Ave.

Stay here with Peggy, the owner, and have some great breakfast and conversation!

Book Now

Sweet Somethings Bed & Breakfast

This BnB is above a bakery, and that means that you’re just steps away from all kinds of delicious desserts and ice cream. Bad idea or good idea?

This BnB is located on Central Ave. right in the Downtown area, and very close to several restaurants and shops.

Local Tip: Grab breakfast first thing downstairs in the bakery while it’s still hot. The cinnamon rolls and sticky buns are famous around here.

Book Now

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSWnEhBhUrm/

The Laurel Cottage

Looking for some good company? This airbnb is perfect for you!

Miss Bonnie is known for her great chats, vegetable and blueberry picking in season, a huge two-person hammock, yoga mats, and a great backyard area with a deck and swing-set.

Book Now

There are many other local BnB’s to stay at in town. These are just a few of our favorites!

Check out the others, and enjoy your stay locally in Laurel!

Sign up in the blue box for email updates every time we post, and follow us on Instagram for more Laurel fun!

Our Downtown Laurel merchants are rolling out the welcome mat for you with beautiful decor, charming shops and big smiles. Stop by and say hey y'all!

Why #iliveinlaurel: A Local’s Perspective

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If you spend any amount of time in Laurel, you’ll quickly see the allure of our affectionally called, “City Beautiful”. There are many reasons why #iliveinlaurel, and hopefully–I can convince you to do the same.

Laurel’s History & Beauty

If you browse the #iliveinlaurel tag on Instagram, you’ll find many photos of our parks, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, blooming gardens, porch gatherings, and walks through the Historic District.

Because we have such rich history built by innovators, artisans, and entrepreneurs, our buildings and homes are awe-inspiring to look at. (And live in!)

I’m lucky enough to live in the Historic District in a very old home with tall ceilings and windows, a huge wrap-around porch, and plenty to look at right outside my door. And when I’m wanting to get out, everything is in walking distance. I’ve got a tennis court across the street, and can walk to work and Downtown in less than 10 minutes!

  • Historic Buildings

    The Arabian, now Laurel Little Theatre is celebrating their 57th season this year. Their building is one of my favorites. I recommend you try to catch them on a good day to go look inside!

  • Historic District

    Laurel’s historic district is incredibly beautiful. Long walks in any season are to be cherished. You might even see some homes you recognize!

  • Laurel in Bloom

    Laurel’s Springtime is the best for flower finds! We’ve got several types of azaleas, Japanese magnolias, and plenty more to enjoy.

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Food & Fun

One of the best parts of Laurel is the culture. Our city is a central hub for creatives, musicians, artists, and foodies of all kinds.

We have great events like Open Mic Night at Lee’s Coffee & Tea, weekends at Slowboat Brewing Co., and festivals sponsored by Laurel Main Street.

And one thing you can’t miss in Laurel is the food. 

We’ve got authentic Italian, home-style cooking, a steakhouse, a coffee shop, and more!

Need refreshing after a long walk through Downtown? Stop at one of our local restaurants or coffee shops for delicious treats!

Need refreshing after a long walk through Downtown? Stop at one of our local restaurants or coffee shops for delicious treats!

Downtown Laurel during Loblolly Festival in the Fall. We have several great festivals worth getting Downtown for!

A Tight-Knit Community Who Are Proud to Say: #iliveinlaurel

Trust me when I say that I’m not the only one who loves living in Laurel! One of my absolute favorite things about my city are my friends and neighbors.

The people who live here are huge cheerleaders of each other and for our Downtown. We collaborate, we meet for lunch, and we know everyone by name.

And most of all: we are proud to say #iliveinlaurel.

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Sprang #iliveinlaurel

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These blue skies + Laurel 😍😍😍

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I hope that after reading this, you’ll consider becoming a Laurelite or at the least just paying us a visit! There’s just too much here to enjoy to keep it all to ourselves.

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