This weekend, the Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum transforms into a haven for pickle aficionados with its annual Pickle Fest. Spanning two days, the festival offers an array of activities including live music, food stalls, contests, and demonstrations featuring over 50 vendors. Attendees can indulge in sweet and tangy treats, participate in spirited competitions, and even sample boozy pickles provided by Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery. With dedicated family zones and sports exhibitions, the event caters to all ages while supporting local museums through ticket sales. As weather conditions promise both rain and shine, organizers assure participants that the fun will proceed regardless of the elements.
Set against the backdrop of Mississippi's vibrant agricultural heritage, this year's Pickle Fest kicks off on Saturday morning at 10 AM and continues until 5 PM, followed by Sunday’s session from 1 PM to 5 PM. The festival boasts an extensive lineup of events such as the Pickle Palooza Contest where creative culinary masterpieces are showcased alongside fierce eating challenges designed to test one's endurance. Throughout the day, visitors enjoy performances by various musicians, storytelling sessions led by Uncle Story, and educational demonstrations about canning techniques conducted by the MS State Extension Office. These diverse offerings ensure there is something for everyone within the bustling atmosphere of the festival grounds.
A notable highlight includes samples of moonshine-marinated pickles distributed exclusively on Saturdays, adding an extra kick to traditional flavors. Meanwhile, children have their own designated play area known as the Sweet Pickle Patch Kids Zone sponsored by the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, ensuring they remain entertained throughout the festivities. Additionally, community bank sponsors host pickleball matches giving spectators another reason to gather around and cheer on competitors.
Tickets must be purchased online prior to arrival due to limited capacities aimed at maintaining adequate parking availability near the Education Center entrance located adjacent to the Sports Hall of Fame lot off Lakeland Drive. Prices vary depending on membership status; non-members pay $15 per day whereas members receive discounted rates at $10 daily access passes. Despite potential inclement weather forecasts predicting scattered showers across parts of Mississippi during these dates, preparations remain steadfast ensuring uninterrupted enjoyment for all attendees.
As gates open each day, festival-goers embark on a journey filled with laughter, learning opportunities, friendly rivalries, and delicious discoveries centered around everyone's favorite sour snack. Whether you're savoring unique creations or simply soaking up the lively ambiance, Mississippi Pickle Fest promises unforgettable memories steeped in tradition yet brimming with innovation. So mark your calendars now because it's time to embrace all things dill!