Meridian, MS, is a city where music, art, and history truly come alive. As the birthplace of legendary musicians like Jimmie Rodgers, Paul Davis, Steve Forbert, and many more, visitors can enjoy everything from state-of-the-art music venues to lively festivals and fantastic museums. Here are a few reasons every music lover should add Meridian to their must-visit list!
Music Venues
MSU Riley Center
More Info: msurileycenter.com
Part of Mississippi State University, the Riley Center is situated inside a beautifully restored 1800s grand opera house. Perfectly blending architectural history with modern performance technology, both audience members and performers have said that the Riley Center is their favorite music venue of all time.
Whether you’re a fan of country, jazz, or classical music, the venue is known to host a variety of musicians across all genres. In 2025, the lineup includes everyone from Drew and Ellie Holcomb (February 15) to Newsboys (March 30), Ann Hampton Callaway (April 4), and Dailey & Vincent (May 22).
Temple Theatre
More Info: thetempletheatre.com
Another historic landmark, the Temple Theatre is Mississippi’s largest and most beautifully appointed cinema. Built in 1927, the venue is known for its stunning Moorish Revival architecture. It features authentic details like a fully operational Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ and catacombs leading to a Cold War fallout bunker. Today, the theater hosts everything from live music to movie screenings and plays.
Dumont Plaza
More Info: meridianms.org
While not an “official” music venue, Dumont Plaza in Downtown Meridian regularly hosts outdoor music events throughout the year. The 46-acre historic park includes a gazebo for bands to set up and play music.
A Music-Centric Museum
The MAX
More Info: msarts.org
History buffs will enjoy spending a few hours at The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX). The local museum highlights some of Mississippi’s most well-known individuals in music, art, and entertainment.
Upon entry, you’re greeted by a bright and airy atrium that is home to the museum’s Hall of Fame. We recommend taking a few minutes to explore this space, as it highlights local legends like Sam Cooke, Marty Stuart, Jimmy Buffett, Elvis Presley, and many more.
The museum’s second floor is where the remaining exhibits are located. As you wander through the rest of The MAX, you’ll learn more about some of music’s most influential musicians who hail from Mississippi, as well as various genres like gospel music and jazz.
Restaurants with Live Music
Aie’s Taste of Thai
More Info: facebook.com
Aie’s Taste of Thai is also known to host live music on select nights. The restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere is accompanied by standout dishes like stir fry, fried rice, and curry. To see when the restaurant is hosting live music next, check its Facebook page for updates.
Mia’s Caffe
More Info: facebook.com
For live music in a cozy café setting, Mia’s Caffe hosts intimate acoustic performances featuring local singers and songwriters. As you soak in the local talent, you can munch on everything from pizza to salads, paninis, and pasta. The restaurant regularly posts event updates on its Facebook page.
Brickhaus Brewtique
More Info: facebook.com
Offering the largest selection of craft beer in Meridian, Brickhaus Brewtique is known for more than just brews and hand-crafted food. On select nights, you may also catch a performer or two playing live music. Known to host musicians of all genres, you can see who’s playing next by visiting the brewery’s Facebook page.
Weidmann’s
More Info: weidmanns1870.com
In addition to serving as Mississippi’s oldest restaurant, Weidmann’s hosts live music on its outdoor Balcony Bar. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the music as you dine on favorites like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and loaded crab cakes. Check the restaurant’s social media to see who’s playing the Balcony Bar next!
Threefoot Brewing
More Info: threefootbrewing.com
Another brewery that’s popular for its drinks and live music, Threefoot Brewing offers everything from coffee stout to sours, lagers, and IPAs. To pair with its music and beer, Threefoot Brewing also offers a variety of food, including chicken wings, burgers, and pulled pork. Check the brewery’s social media to see when they plan to host live music next.
Squealer’s BBQ
More Info: squealersbbque.com
Squealer’s BBQ hosts live music every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Be sure to get there early to snag a table! When it’s time to order, you can’t go wrong with the fried pickles or onion rings to start. For your entrée, the pulled pork sandwich and chicken wings are both fan favorites.
News
More Info: facebook.com
A family-owned restaurant since 1935, News offers delicious home-cooked meals alongside the occasional live music performance. You can enjoy local talent alongside dishes like a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, cheeseburger, or meatloaf. Check the restaurant’s Facebook page for live music updates.
Music Festivals
Jimmie Rodgers Music Festival
More Info: jimmierodgers.com
As the hometown of Jimmie Rodges (aka “The Father of Country Music”), it’s only fitting that Meridian hosts a festival to honor his legacy. An annual event since 1953, it’s the longest-running music festival in the United States.
Now in its 72nd year, the 2025 installment is slated for May 12 through May 18. In addition to nightly live music, attendees can also enjoy events like a talent show, a music history night, and a New Orleans-style brunch. This year’s lineup is yet to be announced, so check the website for updates.
Third Thursdays
Hosted by the Meridian Council for the Arts, Third Thursdays is a long-standing event series created to showcase local artists. Typically kicking off in the spring and continuing through the fall, the family-friendly event takes place at Dumont Plaza and hosts local food trucks and artists in addition to live music.
Full Moon on 5th
Another beloved local event, Full Moon on 5th is hosted by Meridian’s Arts Community & Event Society (ACES). During the celebration, the city blocks off 5th Street in Downtown Meridian to host food trucks, live artist demonstrations, and, of course, live music. The event typically takes place every March, April, May, September, and October.
Juneteenth Celebration
Taking place the Friday and Saturday before Juneteenth, Meridian hosts a community-wide Juneteenth event to celebrate and honor the holiday’s heritage. The event includes a concert at City Hall, a Black business expo, a kids’ zone, and a spectacular fireworks display.
Threefoot Festival
More Info: meridianartscouncil.org
Another event hosted by the Meridian Council for the Arts, the Threefoot Festival is an annual celebration of all things arts and entertainment. The 2025 event, slated for April 18 and April 19, includes a marketplace for artists, an exciting lineup of live music, and the Threefoot Mile Race. Event hours are Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sipp & Savor
More Info: sippandsavor.com
An annual fundraiser for The MAX, Sipp & Savor celebrates Southern culture and cuisine. On April 12, 2025, you can sip on beer, wine, and craft cocktails as you stroll through the museum’s outdoor plaza and listen to live music. The event also includes delicious food from some of the South’s top chefs. Tickets are on sale now and start at $85.
Enjoy your adventures in Meridian!
This article is sponsored by Visit Meridian.Â
