6 Reasons to Visit the Birthplace of America’s Music

Mississippi is more than a beautiful Southern state — it is the birthplace of America’s music. From the soulful blues of the Delta to the electrifying rock ‘n’ roll that defined a generation, this cultural crossroads has shaped the sound of the nation. With two of the most legendary figures in music history celebrating milestone birthdays this year, there’s never been a better time to visit the Magnolia State. Whether you’re a die-hard Elvis fan or a B.B. King blues aficionado, here’s a guide to the best events where you can celebrate their legacies in the birthplace of America’s music!

CELEBRATE ELVIS PRESLEY’S BIRTHDAY

Elvis Presley was born on January 8, 1935, which means this year would have marked his 90th birthday. This June, make plans to visit Tupelo, MS, to honor the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll during the 27th Annual Tupelo Elvis Festival.

27th Annual Tupelo Elvis Festival

This year’s Tupelo Elvis Festival, hosted by the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association, takes place June 4 through 8 and kicks off with the Running with the King 5K. The course takes runners and walkers by the Veterans Park and Elvis Presley Birthplace, and participants are encouraged to have fun and wear their favorite Elvis attire. Proceeds from the event benefit the Northeast Mississippi Boys and Girls Club.

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The fun continues during the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition, where talented performers compete for exciting prizes, including cash, a guitar, a prestigious statue trophy, and more!

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the King’s music, the festival promises a lively, family-friendly atmosphere where you can experience the spirit of Elvis in the town where it all began. From music to dance performances, there’s no better way to celebrate Elvis’s enduring legacy!

While in Tupelo, be sure to explore the charming downtown scene. Cafe 212 is a locally owned lunch shop that offers an eclectic atmosphere with local art. Be sure to try the Blue Suede Grill, the eatery’s version of Elvis’s favorite peanut butter and banana sandwich.

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Nautical Whimsey, an Italian bistro and wine bar, is the perfect place to enjoy al fresco dining between festival activities. Treat yourself to elevated Italian fare and select a wine pairing from their extensive list.

For dessert, visit Crave, Tupelo’s dessert café and gourmet coffee shop. The Shakerag is a whiskey-flavored espresso drink with caramel, and it’s named after the historic neighborhood where Elvis was influenced by the rhythm and blues music he heard there.

CELEBRATE B.B. KING’s BIRTHDAY

The Magnolia State honors another musical legend, B.B. King, who would have turned 100 years old on September 16. Known as the “King of Blues,” B.B. King’s influence stretches far beyond his Mississippi roots. The state is marking this special centennial year with a number of events throughout 2025!

Mississippi Blues Marathon

Honor the King by running the Mississippi Blues Marathon in Jackson on February 22. The start and finish line is located at the State Capitol Complex, where finishers receive a commemorative B.B. King Birthday-themed finisher medal. The medal is not just for marathoners, though! Other options include a half marathon, 10K, 5K, marathon relay, or BB Kids Mini Marathon. Even if you’re not competing, you don’t want to miss the post-race festivities. Join the street party for live music, hot food, and beverages!

Visit the B.B. King Museum

In Indianola, visitors can explore the B.B. King Museum & Delta Interpretive Center, which tells the powerful story of the music legend’s life and career. The Artist To Icon, 1960s exhibit chronicles B.B. King’s journey as a musician touring the Chitlin’ Circuit in the South and examines how the Civil Rights Movement impacted music. Meanwhile, The Theatre invites you to learn more about B.B. King’s life through high-definition projection and audio technology.

The Final Decade is a must-see exhibit focused on the last decade of B.B. King’s life. Here, you’ll find two of his personal automobiles — a Rolls Royce Silver Shadow and a custom-painted Chevy El Camino. Finally, head to the Memorial Courtyard to pay tribute to the final resting place of the King of the Blues, where you’ll find a life-size bronze of B.B. King holding his beloved guitar, Lucille.

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Natchez Festival of Music

On April 26, the Natchez Festival of Music also honors B.B. King with a centennial celebration featuring a live performance from Mississippi recording artist Vasti Jackson. Vasti is a world-renowned guitarist, vocalist, composer, and producer who has garnered multiple GRAMMY nominations and other prestigious awards.

Before embarking on your adventures, whet your appetite at Biscuits and Blues, where you can indulge in authentic Southern comfort food while enjoying soulful blues music. The cozy atmosphere is the perfect place to start your day before an evening of music.

‘The Thrill Lives On’ Tour

Adding to the fanfare, the blues legend’s daughter, Claudette King, leads ‘The Thrill Lives On’ Tour. This dynamic 10-piece band, joined by guest musicians, is slated to travel across the country. It blends traditional Mississippi Delta blues with a funk-infused twist, reintroducing King’s classics to new audiences. Dates are yet to be announced, so stay tuned for additional details!

BONUS: Other Can’t-Miss Landmarks

Two hours west of Tupelo, Ground Zero in Clarksdale is a blues club co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman. Settle in and groove to local blues bands while enjoying Southern eats and booze. The club is conveniently located next door to The Delta Blues Museum.

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In Cleveland, you can also find the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, a 28,000-square-foot interactive music-centered museum. Dive into the history of The GRAMMYs and learn more about Mississippi musicians throughout the decades.

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Visit the birthplace of America’s music this year to honor Elvis Presley and B.B. King!

This article is sponsored by Visit Mississippi.