Natchez Trace Parkway
Northern Mississippi

Northern Mississippi largely composed of the Mississippi Hill region, is distinct in its history and geography from other regions of the state. The Mississippi Hills were named a National Historic Area in 2009 by congress and the US President. Visitors are enriched with the rich and diverse culture, history and geography. Birthplace of the famous and influential, northern Mississippi is a treasured jewel in America's history.

The birthplace home of Elvis, built by his father; the first home of Tennessee Williams; the site where Oprah Winfrey was born and the church she first attended; and the home of William Faulkner are just some of the sites that honor northern Mississippi's prominent native sons and daughters. The hills remain relatively undeveloped and unspoiled, however, where the land once signified hard work, it now invites fun and recreation.

Olive Branch in the far north is a delightful town, active in the preservation of its history and culture. Starting in May and running through June, the city hosts Hootenannies every Thursday night. Stop by Old Towne for a nice evening of music and good old fashioned fun. Olive Branch's annual Mayfest and Cruzin Car Show will be held over Mother's Day weekend. Highlighted by an impressive car and motorcycle show, visitors also enjoy entertainment, arts and crafts, and great food. Bring the family for the day, there will also be a special children's area. Stick around for the weekend and spend the night at the Best Western Olive Branch Hotel and Suites. The kids will love the outdoor pool and Elvis fans will enjoy a visit to Graceland, close by in Memphis.

Columbus celebrates the 15th annual Columbus Market Street Festival the second weekend in May. The largest celebration of the year, residents and visitors gather for two days to enjoy arts, crafts, food and entertainment. Music is a highlight of the festival and features local to nationally recognized talent. Check out downtown Columbus, shops and stores will offer promotions for the event. Load up at the pancake breakfast or take a run at the Market Street 5K – the schedule offers activities for everyone.

Greenwood Mississippi, once the cotton capital of the world, today is home to the second largest cotton exchange, processing about one fifth of North America's crop. The Cottonlandia Museum celebrates Greenwood's history and culture. From May through June, the 23rd Biennial Art Competition at the Cottonlandia Museum showcases artists from Mississippi. 'Que on the Yazoo is Greenwood's BBQ competition held in May. An ideal time to spend the weekend at the Best Western Greenwood, join in the festivities, wander down beautiful main street, and take in the museum. With an indoor/outdoor pool, basketball and racquetball courts, the Best Western Greenwood provides plenty to entertain the entire family.

Mississippi State Capitol
Jackson, MS

Jackson, Mississippi's capital, largest city and center of culture for the state, is vibrant and exciting. Named after Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the US, the city is famous for its music and is called the city with soul. The USA International Ballet Competition, held in Jackson, is a prestigious annual event drawing ballet dancers, instructors and ballet company directors from across the globe. 2010s competition will be held June 12th through June 27th. Thalia Mara Hall hosts the opening ceremonies featuring the Bad Boys of Dance – a fresh new dance performance group who push the limits of traditional ballet and dance, performing to rock and other current music. Dancers and fans of all types of dance will enjoy the current approach the Bad Boys of Dance bring to their performances.

The Crossroads Film Festival is another cultural highlight of the year in Jackson. Held in April, the festival celebrates the art of film making, bringing together audiences and aspiring filmmakers with industry professionals in workshops and discussions. The 2010 festival will feature more than 80 films from throughout the world, along with music, art and other events. Film buffs traveling to Jackson have two Best Western Hotels to choose from, the Best Western Executive Inn and the Best Western Jackson North. Both are convenient events in the city and are affordable lodging options.

The State Games of Mississippi are held all four weekends in June. The games host 29 different sports, with the opening ceremonies held at Dumont Plaza in Meridian, with a parade of athletes and great show. The majority of the venues are in and around Meridian, however, some are in other parts of the state, so check locations on the schedule. Best Western Hotels have locations throughout Mississippi, for those traveling to and from events.

Vicksburg, just 45 miles west of Jackson on interstate 20, hosts its 35th Annual Homecoming in July. An opportunity for current and former Vicksburgers to gather and get reacquainted at several social events, including a dinner, dance and golf tournament. Memorial Day in Vicksburg is a special day, celebrating the contributions of black Americans in our nations conflicts. Memorial Day events include a parade, a service and a motorcade to the cemetery for a wreath laying. Vicksburg celebrates Memorial Day with tradition, honoring the holiday as intended – a nice way to observe the holiday.

Natchez Mississippi, in the southwest of the state, is alive with music during the month of May. The Natchez Festival of Music is a month long event celebrating all genres of music from opera and classical to jazz and blues. Venues range from small and intimate sites to large concert halls. Bring the family and stay at the Best Western River Inn in Natchez. Located on the Mississippi river, close to downtown, make a short vacation and enjoy the local sites as well.

Gulfport, MS

Southern Mississippi beckons travelers with 40 miles of sandy beaches lining the glistening water of the Gulf of Mexico. Settled over 300 years ago, the area is rich in tradition and history. Mississippi residents and visitors flock to the coast for the beaches, birding, arts and entertainment year around. Towns like Gulfport, Biloxi, Gaultier and Pascagoula host special events, celebrating their heritage and culture. The 18th Annual MS Coast Coliseum Crawfish Festival in April is a favorite. Locals compete in a crawfish cookoff, visitors feast on over 20,000 lbs of the mudbugs and thats just the beginning. Entertainment headliners include the Gin Blossoms, The Wailers and Midnight Star. Kids and families will enjoy the midway with rides and games – there will be plenty of entertainment for every taste.

Biloxi features two Best Western Hotels for visitors. The Best Western Cypress Creek and the Best Western Oak Manor. Both are convenient for travelers to the area and feature outdoor swimming pools the kids will love. Spend an extra day and enjoy a nice day at the beach or at one of the nearby sites.

The 6th Annual Smokin' the Sound is in May, a spectacular offshore powerboat race with participants reaching speeds of 150 mph. Held in Biloxi Channel, spectators have excellent viewing areas to catch all the action. This is the first of the Offshore Super Series Races for the season. The 2nd Annual Smokin' the Lake precedes the sound race the weekend prior at Gulf Port Lake. Visitors are treated to great parties, and local entertainment along with the regions fastest (and loudest) racing boats.

Gautier hosts a favorite Mississippi pastime at the Jackson County Sheriff's Benefit Bass Tournament. With cash prizes, it's not only fun, it draws participants serious about fishing. Fun for the entire family, there are prizes for the top men, women and youngest. Even the biggest trash fish wins. Grab your tackle and bring the family out for a nice day of fishing. June 19th, the 7th Annual Krewe of Vesta fishing Rodeo is held. Equally as fun, this tournament features an on-site kids tournament and kids activities. The Best Western Magnolia in Gautier is a great option to make a weekend out of either fishing tournament. Close to the beach and other local sites, it is convenient for a getaway.

Pascagoula honors the gulf region natural surroundings at the Pascagoula River Nature Festival in April. The Pascagoula River is the last free-flowing river in the contiguous US. There are over 325 species of birds in the river region including migratory species. Be sure to visit the Scranton Nature Center on April 24th to see exhibits showcasing snakes and turtles along with birding information booths. Events will also be held in Gautier, Lucedale, Moss Point and Ocean Springs. The Best Western Flagship Inn in Moss Point off I-10 is central to all the nature festival events and with affordable rates, makes a wise choice for your lodging needs.