News Summary
The Cotton District Arts Festival is back in Starkville after an 18-month hiatus, set for this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The festival kicks off with two receptions on Friday, featuring local art and music. This year’s festival features a new layout with over 150 artists exhibiting their work in a more compact space, along with live performances on two stages and various attractions for families. Celebrate art, music, and community at this exciting event!
Cotton District Arts Festival Blooms Back to Life in Starkville!
Excitement is in the air as the Cotton District Arts Festival returns this weekend after an 18-month break! That’s right, folks—your favorite celebration of art, music, and food has made its way back to Starkville, and it’s ready to impress. Set your calendars for Saturday, as the festival kicks off from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You won’t want to miss out on the fun!
Start the Celebration with a Kickoff
But wait, there’s more! The festivities will actually begin on Friday with not one but *two* kickoff receptions! The first will take place at the Mississippi State University Visual Arts Center at 4:30 p.m.. If you’re looking for an evening packed with local art vibes, head to Fire Station Park from 6-9 p.m. for another kickoff event featuring live music and local vendors. Sounds like the perfect way to ease into the weekend, doesn’t it?
A Fresh Spin on Things
The festival has introduced a new, concentrated layout this year, making it easier than ever to enjoy all that it has to offer. The footprint of the event is roughly half the length of previous festivals, allowing attendees an easier stroll through the artistic offerings while keeping in mind the preparations for Easter at St. Joseph Catholic Church. With over 150 artists spread across 102 vendor tents, there’s a little something for everyone!
What’s on Display?
Art lovers, rejoice! This year, festival-goers can marvel at a variety of artistic expressions. Expect everything from traditional art to fiber arts, and even fun items like candles, soap, and leather boots. With an influx of new artists, the competition to secure a spot has heated up, showcasing some truly remarkable creations!
The festival’s offerings also include trendy goodies like paintings, prints, jewelry, and delightful crochet goods. With so much on display, you’re sure to find that perfect piece to take home or gift to someone special!
Two Stages, So Much Music!
Music lovers will find their groove with live performances happening on not one but *two* stages! The Main Stage will feature a variety of artists, while the Del Stage caters to those who love singer-songwriters. Whether you’re in the mood to dance or kick back and soak in the tunes, there’s plenty to enjoy!
Fun for Everyone
As if that wasn’t enough, the festival also hosts an array of attractions that promise fun for the whole family. Treat your taste buds to the Taste of Starkville restaurant competition, where local eateries showcase their best dishes. If you’re bringing the kids, don’t miss the Children’s Village and the ever-popular Pet Parade! And for those looking to show off their creativity, a costume contest promises to add an extra spark of excitement to the day.
A Community-Focused Celebration
The Cotton District Arts Festival aims to be more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the local community and its rich culture. With its new layout and diverse offerings, it’s sure to bring people together in a vibrant tapestry of artistic expression. Grab your friends and family, prepare to immerse yourself in creativity, and enjoy all this wonderful festival has to offer!
The countdown is on, so make sure you mark your calendars and get ready to soak up the artistic flair at the Cotton District Arts Festival this weekend!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Cotton District Arts Festival Returns to Starkville
Additional Resources
- Cotton District Arts Festival Returns
- Google Search: Cotton District Arts Festival
- Community Profile: Art at Cotton District
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cotton District Arts Festival
- Towns for Retirement in Mississippi
- Google News: Mississippi Retirement
- Drag Performances at Starkville Festival
- Google Scholar: Art Festivals in Mississippi
- Cotton District Arts Festival Pushed to 2025
- Google Search: Cotton District Arts Festival 2025
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
