7 Best Downtowns In Mississippi

Mississippi is one of many southern states, like nearby Alabama and Louisiana, that enjoys a long and rich history that typifies the American South. Throughout the years, it was home to major events, including the Civil War, the construction of major railroad hubs, and the growth of the Civil Rights movement. Many of the towns throughout the state reflect that history in their museums and historic buildings that populate them. That rich history makes these towns more vibrant places to visit, especially thanks to the shops and stores that have emerged in the many historic downtowns that comprise the state. If you are looking for some of the best downtowns in the state to visit, visit any of these seven towns.

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Small Town, Big Spotlight: Canton’s Film Legacy Featured on Visit Mississippi’s 2026 Rose Parade Float

On New Year’s Day 2026, Canton, Mississippi’s iconic film legacy will be showcased on a national stage as part of Visit Mississippi’s official float in the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade. Canton’s movie history is being highlighted through the float’s theme, “Where Creativity Blooms,” which will spotlight the places and stories that have shaped Mississippi’s cultural identity.

Known as the “Movie Capital of Mississippi,” Canton’s inclusion reflects its long-standing role in film and its contribution to the state’s broader creative narrative.

Where Creativity Blooms

The Visit Mississippi float theme, “Where Creativity Blooms,” celebrates the state’s rich artistic heritage, spanning film, music, literature and visual arts. Canton’s featured presence honors decades of filmmaking that transformed its historic downtown and authentic Southern streetscapes into one of Mississippi’s most recognizable on-screen destinations.

Lights, Camera, Canton

Often referred to as the City of Lights, Canton has earned national recognition for its cinematic appeal. Its preserved architecture, walkable historic square and unmistakable Southern character have drawn filmmakers for decades.

Notable films shot in Canton include:

•  A Time to Kill

• My Dog Skip

• O Brother, Where Art Thou?

Today, visitors can explore this legacy firsthand at Canton’s movie museums, which offer guided tours by appointment. These behind-the-scenes experiences give fans a closer look at how Canton’s streets, buildings and community helped bring Hollywood stories to life.

A National Moment for Mississippi Storytelling

The 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade marks Visit Mississippi’s second appearance in this iconic New Year’s tradition. With millions of viewers tuning in nationwide, the parade provides a powerful platform to showcase the state’s creative influence and cultural assets.

Through the float’s design and storytelling, Canton’s film heritage will be part of that spotlight—demonstrating how a small Mississippi town has played an outsized role in American film history.

Tune In and Celebrate

Whether you’ve strolled Canton’s historic square, visited its film sites or recognized it on the big screen, this moment belongs to everyone who values Mississippi’s creative communities.

Be sure to tune in to the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1, 2026, starting at 10 a.m. CST and watch Canton, Mississippi, shine in the national spotlight, proving once again why it proudly holds the title “Movie Capital of Mississippi.”

Experience the Magic of Christmas in Canton, Mississippi

When the air turns crisp and the holidays draw near, there’s no better place to celebrate Christmas in Mississippi than Canton, lovingly known as Mississippi’s Movie Capital. From My Dog Skip and A Time to Kill to O Brother, Where Art Thou?, Canton has long captured the imagination of filmmakers and travelers alike. But during the holiday season, this charming town shines brighter than ever.

A Dazzling Holiday Tradition

Recently named the Best Free Adventure in Mississippi Magazine’s 2025 Best of Travel Awards, Canton Christmas Festival transforms the Historic Courthouse Square into a glowing wonderland of more than 200,000 twinning lights, festive garlands, and cheerful decor.

This year’s festival runs November 28–30 from 5 – 9 p.m., closes December 1 – 4, and reopens December 5 – 23 for the full holiday experience. Stroll the square, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy local dining.

Events That Spark Holiday Spirit

•   Plein Air: Paint the Town Mississippi - December 6
Artists are invited to capture the glow of Canton’s holiday charm on canvas.

• 19th Annual Holiday Sip ‘N Cider - December 12

Participating merchants offer Christmas Hot Cider - Annual fun competition for our visitors

Festival Favorites Returning in 2025

The Canton Christmas Festival is a family tradition. Add one (or all) of these events to your holiday line-up!

·        Santa’s Cookie Stop: Sweet treats and hot cocoa for all ages

·        Mrs. Claus’ Storytelling Corner: Cozy up for festive tales.

·        Festive Light Photo-Ops: Capture the perfect holiday photo under thousands of twinkling lights.

·        Christmas Animation I-Spy Museum: Discover nostalgic displays and hidden surprises.

·        Photos with Santa: A must-do memory.

·        Children’s Rides: Take a spin on the classic carousel or antique cars.

·        Santa’s Snow Village: Peek into Santa’s charming hometown.

·        Singalong Fest with the Best (select dates): Caroling and community fun.

·        Carriage Rides: Romantic, horse-drawn ride around The Square.

·        19th Annual Sip ’n Cider (Dec. 12): Shop local while sipping complimentary cider at participating stores.

Canton Tourism continues to enhance the festival each year with new attractions, improved visitor amenities, and expanded marketing efforts to ensure every guest has an unforgettable experience.

Explore Canton Beyond the Festival

Your trip to Canton, Mississippi, doesn’t have to end when the lights go out. Wander through the Historic Courthouse Square for a mix of antique shops, local boutiques, and Southern eateries. Try one of Canton’s favorite restaurants, explore nearby cultural attractions, or take a scenic winter drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway National Park, one of the South’s most beautiful routes.

Whether you’re coming for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Canton offers a perfect blend of holiday magic, small-town charm, and Southern hospitality.

Plan Your Visit

Get ready to experience the most magical Christmas festival in Mississippi. Follow Canton Tourism on Instagram and Facebook for festive photos, insider looks, and more reasons to celebrate the season in Canton, Mississippi. And check us out on It’s A Southern Thing.

Meet The Merchant: Vintage Finds and Southern Charm - Inside The Hutchison's Unique Resale Shop on Canton's Storied Square

Nestled within our historic square is a shopping experience unlike any other, thanks to the vision of Ed Hutchison and his wife, Amy. Together, they run two thriving vendor malls that have become a cornerstone of our community, offering everything from handmade crafts to vintage finds. We had the opportunity to chat with this inspiring duo to learn more about the journey they’ve taken to turn their passion for local business into a downtown staple.

We’re thrilled to be sitting down with you today, Ed. Can you share a bit about yourself as well as your store, Merri Pennie’s Mercantile and Tea Room?  

Of course! My name is Ed Hutchison. My wife, Amy Hutchison, and I own both Merri Pennie’s Mercantile and Tea Room and The Emporium. We opened Merri Penni’s in January of 2020, one month before the COVID pandemic started – perfect timing, haha! 

My wife and I were approached by Suzanne Hale, the former owner of Canton Square Antiques who had been on The Square for twenty years or so. She wanted us to take over the store. At first, we were hesitant to open a second store as we already had The Emporium, but Charlie Lovett (an artist we had worked with), said that if we opened another store, she would like to run a tearoom in it. 

Charlie had extensive culinary experience spanning several decades. We pondered this idea and thought it was brilliant. Having an antique store in the front and a tearoom in the back was something incredibly different and unique, so we jumped at the idea. 

We decided to rename the store Merri Pennie’s, in honor of Amy’s late mother who passed away from cancer. We wanted to honor her and thought there was no better way than to name the store after her, as she was also a successful businesswoman and the longtime owner of Homestyle Furniture Store in Downtown Magee. 

How does Merri Pennie’s differ from The Emporium? Is there a stark contrast in the type of merchandise offered at both stores?

Well, I’ll start off by saying both stores are what I call, “vendor malls.” However, Merri Pennie’s caters towards a different market, offering more high-end items. We carry more antiques here and feature more local artists. The tearoom adds a different flavor and creates a distinct difference between our two stores.

What would you say are the key elements to starting and running a successful business?

You need to have knowledge about what you’re trying to achieve when it pertains to your goals, and you absolutely must know your market. I think something that often happens to businesses; unfortunately, is that they don’t look at these things or know who their audience is. Putting the time in to understand these things helps tremendously. 

Are there any special events Merri Pennie’s offers that you’d like to highlight?

Absolutely! Our tearoom is open to special events, such as high teas, senior parties, graduations, birthday parties, etc. You name the occasion, and we can host it!

What do you think makes Canton special as the home for your business?

Canton’s Historic Square has a certain quality about it. It’s incredibly unique and everyone here is so kind. One of the things I love most about Canton is that you’re able to see the possibilities and growth that live here and are bound to happen. I must mention the annual events as well. The Canton City of Lights Christmas festival and Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show lend a hand to us being here, as people travel from all over to attend these events. 

Meet The Merchant: Where History Meets Style - Discover The Emporium: A One-of-a-Kind Store In The Heart Of Canton

In the heart of Canton, Mississippi’s Historic Square lies a true entrepreneurial gem. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Ed Hutchison who, along with his wife, has transformed two vendor malls into bustling marketplaces filled with unique treasures. Their joint venture not only offers local artisans and vendors a space to thrive but also plays a key role in the vitality of our small southern town.

What unique or standout items have you come across or sold that you'd like to share?

Ed: One special item/memory involves snow. In the back of The Emporium, we make snow for the kids during the holiday season. Once, two children (now adults), who grew up visiting our store ended up proposing outside during Christmas, right on the carriage ride. They came back because of the fond memories from their childhood, and now they return every year. It’s amazing to be a part of their story. 

How did you and Amy get your start as entrepreneurs? 

Ed: I’ve always had my own business, but my wife, Amy, wanted to buy a jewelry business years ago. After purchasing it, we started doing Junior League shows. A family friend suggested we should open a store on The Square. We began with 600 square feet, selling half antiques and half costume jewelry. Eventually, we outgrew the space and, by chance, found a larger store on The Square. That’s when we opened The Emporium 15 years ago – 3600 square feet! We wanted to add something new, as there were already several antique stores on The Square. We decided to feature local artists, and that’s been our focus ever since. 

What has been the most rewarding aspect of working and running two businesses together as a couple?

Ed: One of the positives is that we get to spend a lot of time together.

Amy: And owning our own businesses lets us travel more, which we love.

Tell us more about The Emporium.

Ed: We like to call it a retro department store. It’s a place where different merchants come together to offer a variety of unique items. The name 'Emporium' is a nod to the old Emporium in Jackson. The grandson of the family who owned it still lives nearby and kindly gave us their original logo. We've been using it ever since, and it’s been part of our story for 15 years now.