The Best Food, Music & Cultural Festivals in the South

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Lively music celebrations and mouthwatering food festivals prove what every Southerner already knows: the South knows how to throw a party! Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences or just a good time, these top festivals are the perfect excuse for a road trip this year.

Editor’s Note: We’ll continue adding to this list, so keep checking back in the coming weeks.

Table of Contents

JANUARY – MARCH
APRIL – JUNE
JULY – SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER – DECEMBER

JANUARY – MARCH

March 13, 14, 20, & 21, 2027: Highland County Maple Festival | Highland County, VA

Every March, Highland County, VA, transforms into a maple lover’s paradise during its beloved Maple Festival. Scheduled for March 13 and 14, and again on March 20 and 21, this county-wide event invites visitors to explore 10 working sugar camps and witness traditional syrup-making methods firsthand.

Beyond the sweet allure of maple, the festival boasts more than 100 juried arts and crafts vendors, live entertainment, and hearty meals featuring pancakes, buckwheat cakes, and the famed maple doughnuts. Recognized as Virginia’s official maple festival, it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and culinary delight.

Various bottles of maple syrup are arranged on wooden shelves near a window with a view of the southern countryside, evoking the warmth and charm of local festivals. — Sweeten your visit to the Highland County Maple Festival by stopping at one of the many syrup booths, where bottles of fresh, locally made syrup capture the authentic taste of the region’s rich sugaring tradition. Image: Facebook

March 19 – 21, 2027: JXN Food & Wine | Jackson, MS

This Jackson staple celebrates Mississippi’s exciting culinary scene. Hosted by The Local Palate and Visit Jackson, the weekend features intimate dinners and grand tastings with over 25 acclaimed chefs, including Top Chef stars and local legend Nick Wallace. Beyond the live music and demonstrations, the festival gives back, with proceeds supporting scholarships for the next generation of hospitality leaders. It’s a delicious way to experience the heart of the South.

A man pours wine into a woman's glass at a tasting event, one of the best festivals in the South, with various wine bottles and other attendees visible in the background. — Sips and snacks abound at the annual JXN Food & Wine Festival. Image: Facebook

APRIL – JUNE

April 9 – 11, 2026: Mule Day | Columbia, TN

Experience authentic Southern heritage at Mule Day in Columbia, TN, a tradition dating back to the 1840s. Every year in April, Maury County Park comes alive with mule shows, craft fairs, live music, and Southern cuisine. Additional events include the Mule Kick 5k, lumberjack contests, and the Mule Day Barn Bash. It’s a celebration of rural culture and community spirit.

Two mules in ornate harnesses participate in a parade, a highlight of the best festivals in the South, surrounded by enthusiastic spectators. — The Mule Day Parade in Columbia, TN, is a beloved tradition that fills downtown with mule-drawn wagons, marching bands, and patriotic pride — a vibrant showcase of rural heritage that draws thousands each April. Image: Facebook

April 17 & 18, 2026: Sandestin Wine Festival | Miramar Beach, FL

Known as the “pioneer” of Gulf Coast wine events, this four-day celebration at the Village of Baytowne Wharf perfectly balances luxury with a relaxed, “come-as-you-are” coastal vibe. Beyond the grand wine tastings featuring hundreds of labels, the weekend is packed with celebrity chef dinners, beachside yoga, and live music. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a casual enthusiast, the resort’s walkable layout makes it easy to immerse yourself in the best of Gulf Coast culture, one pour at a time.

A person pours red wine from a bottle into a glass held by another at an outdoor event, capturing the spirit of Southern festivals, with bottles and a blurred background setting the festive scene. — Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned pro, there’s a glass waiting for you at the Sandestin Wine Festival. Image: Walton County Tourism

April 24 & 25, 2026: Alabama Strawberry Festival | Cullman, AL

Each spring, Cullman turns sweet with the Alabama Strawberry Festival, a lively celebration of the region’s deep agricultural roots. The rain-or-shine event spotlights fresh, locally grown strawberries alongside strawberry-inspired treats, from shortcake to creative festival fare.

Expect live music throughout the weekend, more than 80 artisan and craft vendors, and plenty of family-friendly fun, including carnival rides, games, and playful contests like strawberry-eating competitions and doggie “pawgeants.” It’s a joyful showcase of local culture, community spirit, and Southern flavor.

Aerial view of one of the best festivals in the South, featuring crowds, white tents, a Ferris wheel, amusement rides, and surrounding buildings and parking lots during the day. — The Alabama Strawberry Festival is a bustling weekend full of fresh strawberries, artisan vendors, live music, and family fun. Image: Visit Cullman

April 24 – 26, 2026: South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival | Miramar Beach, FL

If you prefer your wine tasting with a side of high-end shopping and live music, head to Grand Boulevard for the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival. It’s a massive showcase of more than 600 wines, but the layout keeps it feeling sophisticated rather than overwhelming. Between the VIP tastings and the celebrity chef appearances in the Culinary Village, it’s the kind of festival where you’ll actually want to linger. Grab a glass, find a spot in the shade, and enjoy the songwriter sets.

Two fish tacos with avocado, diced tomatoes, and microgreens on corn tortillas, served on a plate with a lime wedge—perfect for enjoying outdoors by the water at one of the Best Festivals in the South. — Savor some of the best coastal flavors at the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival. Image: Walton County Tourism

May 1, 2026: 1st Fridays | Springfield, TN

Head to historic downtown Springfield, TN, for 1st Fridays — a lively, free community event held the first Friday of each month from May through October (excluding July). From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., enjoy live music, food trucks, a kids’ zone, a specialty vehicle cruise-in, and shopping with 80+ local vendors. Proceeds support downtown beautification projects like public art, parks, and holiday displays. Set on the charming Springfield Square, this vibrant event has been drawing crowds and giving back since 2017.

A large crowd attends one of the best festivals in the South, enjoying an outdoor street festival with tents and vendor booths, under traffic lights and a clock tower in the background on a sunny day. — Live music, local eats, and small-town charm come together at Springfield’s 1st Fridays on the Square, a free monthly celebration that supports the beautification of historic downtown. Image: City of Springfield, TN

May 2 & 3, 2026: ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival | Miramar Beach, FL

Tucked into the Town Center of Grand Boulevard, the annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival is a Mother’s Day weekend staple for South Walton locals and visitors alike. With more than 150 artists showcasing everything from fine jewelry to large-scale sculptures, it’s the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind piece while wandering through the live music and artist demos. Don’t miss “ImagiNation,” a dedicated space where kids can get creative, making it an easy, art-filled outing for the whole family.

A mural of a monarch butterfly with the words "Change is permanent" painted on turquoise; a large red letter "T" is on the adjacent white wall, capturing the vibrant spirit seen at Festivals in the South. — Scout one-of-a-kind pieces from more than 150 juried artists at ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival. Image: Walton County Tourism

May 14, 2026: Canton Flea Market Festival | Canton, MS

Mark your calendar for the bi-annual 61st annual Canton Flea Market, a Mississippi tradition and one of the South’s original and most celebrated arts and crafts events! This one-day show, held on the second Thursday of May and October in Canton, MS, features a wide array of handcrafted treasures, unique gifts, and local artistry. Whether you’re hunting for home decor, jewelry, or artisanal finds, this beloved event promises a day full of shopping, inspiration, and small-town charm. (SB Tip: The fall installment is scheduled for October 8, 2026.)

Crowds browse vendor stalls at an outdoor market in front of vintage storefronts, including antique and mercantile shops, on a historic Main Street—an atmosphere reminiscent of the best festivals in the South. — Colorful booths and handcrafted treasures fill the streets of Canton at the bi-annual Arts & Crafts Show. Image: Canton Tourism

May 15 – 18, 2026: Jimmie Rodgers Festival | Meridian, MS

It all started with a railroad man and a yodel. Known as the “Father of Country Music,” Jimmie Rodgers left a legacy that lives on each May in his Mississippi hometown. The Jimmie Rodgers Festival blends old-school soul with new sounds, spotlighting rising stars and honoring legends. Expect days filled with live music, local eats, and Southern storytelling — all wrapped in the charm of downtown Meridian. It’s not just a festival; it’s a front-row seat to music history.

At one of the best festivals in the South, a large crowd is seated on grass, soaking up the sun as musicians perform under the "Jimmie Rodgers Music Festival" banner. — Celebrate the legacy of the “Father of Country Music” with a week of live performances and community events at the 72nd Annual Jimmie Rodgers Music Festival in Meridian, MS. Image: Facebook

June 3 – 6, 2026: Tupelo Elvis Festival | Tupelo, MS

Slip on your blue suede shoes and head to the birthplace of the King! Every June, Tupelo throws a hip-shakin’, heart-thumpin’ celebration of all things Elvis. Events at the Tupelo Elvis Festival include the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition, live concerts, Southern fare, parades, and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss highlights like the “Becoming Experience” Youth Day & Competition and “Running with the King” 5K race. Join fans from around the world for a weekend of music, history, and Southern hospitality.

On stage in a white jumpsuit, the performer raises a hand amid swirling smoke effects. A drum set stands ready to the side, echoing rhythms reminiscent of lively South festivals, as the audience watches in awe from the foreground. — Fans flock to Tupelo each summer to honor Elvis Presley with live music, vibrant parades, themed competitions, and a whole lot of rock ‘n’ roll spirit in the town where it all began. Image: Facebook

June 4 – 7, 2026: South Carolina Festival of Flowers | Greenwood, SC

Celebrate summer at the South Carolina Festival of Flowers in Uptown Greenwood, where 57 stunning topiary sculptures transform the streets into a vibrant outdoor gallery. Explore towering animals, whimsical designs, and intricate floral masterpieces that delight visitors year after year. Enjoy delicious food trucks, live music, a Garden Symposium, and family-friendly activities like the Fun Run and Garden Tours. Don’t miss the wine walk, a perfect evening of sips, music, and garden beauty during this annual June event.

A topiary elephant covered in greenery and flowers stands proudly next to a brick building, embracing the festive spirit of the South. Surrounded by landscaped plants, including vibrant yellow and red flowers, it basks under a partly cloudy sky. — From the towering elephant and playful ducks to the ever-popular Safari Jeep, the handcrafted floral masterpieces at the South Carolina Festival of Flowers are made from thousands of colorful plants and blooms. Image: Facebook

June 20, 2026: Maysville Uncorked | Maysville, KY

Celebrate summer on the historic, brick-lined Market Street in the heart of downtown Maysville. Sponsored by the Maysville Players — Kentucky’s oldest theatrical company — this festival shines a spotlight on regional wineries, with local beer and bourbon poured for good measure. It’s a quintessential Southern evening where the charm of the setting matches the quality of the spirits. Best of all, proceeds go directly toward supporting the local arts, giving you the perfect excuse to raise a glass to the community.

People browse and sell various bottled products under a white tent at an outdoor market, capturing the lively spirit found at the best festivals in the south. — Sample some of the best of regional wineries, beer, and bourbon at Maysville Uncorked. Image: Visit Maysville

June 26 – 28, 2026: AthFest | Athens, GA

AthFest Music & Arts Festival is a free, three-day event showcasing local and regional musicians across three outdoor stages. In the past, it has featured artists like Bubba Sparxxx, Elijah Johnston, and Hallpass. The festival is a modern celebration of Athens’ long history of music headliners who call the area home — think R.E.M., the B-52s, and Widespread Panic. Explore a diverse market with visual artists and local makers, and enjoy family-friendly activities at the KidsZone. As night falls, the Club Crawl takes over local venues with more than 70 performances.

The band played energetically on stage at one of the South's best festivals, captivating a large crowd in broad daylight. Trees and tents formed a vibrant backdrop as festival-goers soaked in the lively atmosphere. — Experience the vibrant energy of AthFest Music & Arts Festival in Downtown Athens, GA, where live performances, local art, and community spirit converge. Image: Facebook

JULY – SEPTEMBER

July 9 – 11, 2026: Slugburger Festival | Corinth, MS

Corinth’s Slugburger Festival is slated to return with three days of quirky fun and local flavor in historic downtown Corinth. Named after a Depression-era burger made with beef and soy grits, the event celebrates this regional favorite with food vendors, live music, a car show, an artisan market, and the popular Slug Idol singing competition. From carnival rides to deep-fried bites, it’s a unique taste of Mississippi hospitality and history that’s been bringing the community together for decades.

Two children ride a colorful amusement park ride shaped like a dragon or dinosaur under a blue sky, smiling and holding the handlebars—capturing the joyful spirit found at the best festivals in the South. — Bring the whole family to Downtown Corinth for summer fun at the Slugburger Festival — complete with carnival rides, live music, and delicious eats in a lively, small-town setting. Image: Visit Corinth

September 2026: Tennessee Soybean Festival | Martin, TN

Every September, Martin, TN, celebrates its agricultural roots with the Tennessee Soybean Festival — one of West Tennessee’s largest and most anticipated events. The weeklong festival features concerts, a full carnival, a food truck park, arts and crafts vendors, and family-friendly events such as a pet show and a tractor parade. It’s also home to quirky favorites like the soy doughnut contest and soybean-themed games. Whether you’re into live music or local flavor, this small-town celebration offers big-time fun.

Children driving toy cars on an outdoor track at a lively festival in the South, with onlookers and traffic cones scattered in the background. — Tennessee Soybean Festival features the Fast and Furious Power Wheels Race! Image: Facebook

OCTOBER – DECEMBER

October 2 & 3, 2026: Peacemaker Music Festival | Fort Smith, AR

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Arkansas River, the Peacemaker Music Festival in Fort Smith blends top-tier talent with heartfelt purpose. Held from 1 p.m. until midnight Friday and Saturday at the Riverfront Amphitheater, this volunteer-driven, nonprofit event features a dynamic mix of Country, Rock, Red Dirt, and Americana artists. With performances by Sam Barber, Stephen Wilson Jr., and Southall, plus food vendors and family-friendly vibes, it’s more than a concert — it’s a community celebration that gives back to local and artist-supported charities.

A large crowd sits on lawn chairs facing an outdoor concert stage under a highway overpass at sunset during the Peacemaker Festival, one of the best festivals in the South. — Set along the banks of the Arkansas River, Peacemaker Festival brings big-name artists and a laid-back vibe to Fort Smith, all while supporting local charities with every beat. Image: Discover Fort Smith / Phil Clarkin

October 4, 2026: Airing of the Quilts Festival | Boykin, AL

Experience the rich artistic legacy of Gee’s Bend at the annual Airing of the Quilts Festival. Celebrate generations of African American women quilters through stunning displays, hands-on workshops, demonstrations, and guided tours. Enjoy regional cuisine, shop for unique creations, and take the ferry to Camden to explore the Black Belt Treasures Cultural Art Center, home to the works of over 400 local artists. A suggested $40 donation helps support the festival and its artists.

Two people admire colorful quilts at an outdoor market or craft fair—an experience found at some of the best festivals in the South—while another person browses in the background. — Festivalgoers explore quilt displays, workshops, and local art at the Airing of the Quilts Festival. Image: Stacey K. Allen

October 9 & 10, 2026: Trigg County Country Ham Festival | Cadiz, KY

Celebrating its 50th year, this Cadiz tradition is a deep dive into Western Kentucky heritage. Offering carnival rides, bluegrass music, and the legendary “Kentucky’s Largest Ham & Biscuit,” it’s everything you want from a classic fall festival. Whether you’re watching the ham-and-biscuit eating contest or browsing handmade goods from local artisans, the community spirit is infectious. The best part? Since it’s nestled right between Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, it’s the perfect excuse for a scenic autumn road trip.

A busy street fair, named one of the Best Festivals in the South for 2026, with people walking among vendor tents on both sides; brick buildings line the street under a clear sky. — From the world’s largest ham biscuit to 50 years of community heritage, the Trigg County Ham Festival is as classic as it gets. Image: Cadiz-Trigg County Tourism

October 11 & 12, 2026: Oktoberfest | Sugar Mountain, NC

Celebrate the 36th Annual Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Resort on October 11 and 12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., where Bavarian tradition meets Blue Ridge beauty. Enjoy live Oompah music, authentic German eats like bratwurst and apple strudel, plus Spaten Oktoberfest beer straight from Munich. With chairlift rides, craft vendors, and peak fall foliage, this free, family-friendly event offers something for everyone — whether you’re there for the food, views, or a hearty round of “Prost!”

People participate in a line dance at an outdoor festival in the South, with autumn foliage, vendor tents, and a ski lift station in the background—one of the Best Festivals to experience in 2026. — Experience Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain with soft pretzels, Spaten beer, and scenic chairlift rides that showcase vibrant fall foliage from the slopes. Image: Sugar Mountain TDA

October 25 – 31, 2026: The Original Round Top Antiques Fair | Round Top, TX

The Round Top Fall Antiques Show in Round Top, TX, draws collectors and designers to more than 11 miles of curated venues along Highway 237. Highlights include the Original Round Top Antiques Fair at the Big Red Barn and Blue Hills. Explore a vast selection of early American furniture, European antiques, vintage textiles, and artisan decor. With on-site shippers, air-conditioned venues, and free parking, it’s a must-visit for antique enthusiasts. Editor’s note: A Spring show is also held annually.

A vintage-style room with terracotta chairs, framed paintings on the wall, and chandeliers evokes a Southern charm. The white hutch displays pottery and various decorative items. — The Round Top Fall Antiques Show transforms rural Texas into an antique lover’s paradise, with miles of vintage finds, European collectibles, and one-of-a-kind pieces around every corner. Image: Facebook

November 6 – 15, 2026: Wurstfest | New Braunfels, TX

Affectionately known as “the best 10 days in sausage history,” this New Braunfels tradition is a high-energy blend of German heritage and Texas hospitality. Set right on the Comal River, the festival features massive beer halls, non-stop polka, and every variety of schnitzel and sausage imaginable. Whether you’re donning your best dirndl or just stopping by for a pitcher and a carnival ride, the Alpine-style entertainment makes it one of the most spirited fall events in the South.

A person holding a large pretzel in a paper wrapper and a glass of beer outdoors, with people blurred in the background—capturing the lively spirit of Southern festivals and some of the Best Festivals in the South. — A cold brew and a warm, salty pretzel are non-negotiable at this 10-day Texas tradition. Image: Facebook

November 19 – December 23, 2026: Cullman Christkindlmarkt | Cullman, AL

The Cullman Christkindlmarkt brings authentic German holiday charm to Depot Park from November 19 through December 23. Stroll through festive huts filled with handcrafted ornaments, delicious treats, and warm Glühwein, then enjoy ice skating, a 108-foot Ferris wheel, and a classic double-decker carousel. Little ones can stop by Kinderplatz for crafts, toy making, and Santa visits. As night falls, the towering Christmas pyramid and cheerful carols create a warm, family-friendly holiday glow.

A Ferris wheel and carousel at an outdoor fair during sunset, with people gathered nearby and a wooden fence in the foreground—capturing the charm found in the best Christmas towns in the South. — Visitors come from far and wide for Cullman’s annual Christkindlmarkt! Image: Visit Cullman

Let the festivities begin!

This article is sponsored by JXN Food & Wine, Visit South Walton, Sugar Mountain TDA, and Cadiz-Trigg County Tourism.

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The Best Festivals in the South