Featured image: The 2025 lecture series stage at the Antiques & Garden Show, designed by Rachel Halvorson. Image: Jessica Amerson Photography
December holidays may be upon us, but the excitement in the South is just getting started. Whether the new year is your time to start anew or your sign to slow down, these events have something for anyone to tuck into. This is a time for icy installations, libations from around the globe, and honorary celebrations. Grab a coat and join us for January in the South.
Wash away 2025 and plunge into 2026 at the Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip in Gulf Shores, AL. The commitment to run full speed ahead into the Gulf of America will be readily rewarded with a free beer and a New Year’s Day lunch with all the fixins. Join thousands of beachgoers decked out in full costume and enjoy an all-day party… the holidays aren’t over just yet!
A sign of a fresh start and new beginnings can be witnessed this January in Decatur, AL at the Festival of the Cranes. Over 20,000 Sandhill cranes can be seen flying into their winter homes and settling in for the chilly season. Activities include guided bird-watching walks, a live raptor show, and special events designed just for kids.
Antiques and Garden Show of Nashville | Nashville, TN
January 9-11, 2026
For anyone who appreciates timeless style, elegant gardens, and inspiring design, the Antiques and Garden Show of Nashville is a must-see event in Nashville, TN. The theme of 2026 evokes “American Elegance” with keynote speakers David Lauren and Lauren Bush Lauren, a cozy Bourbon Party, and endless gorgeously curated displays!
Join the streets of Dublin, GA for an uplifting and vibrant celebration at the Martin Luther King Jr. Parade. Colorful floats, energized marching bands, and community spirit come together for a day of unity, hope, and courage. The life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. are commemorated in this lively 30th annual event.
International Wine Festival | Roanoke, VA
January 18, 2026
Wine, food, and art… need we say more? Taubman’s Museum of Art’s Annual International Wine Festival returns to bring reds and whites from around the world right to Roanoke, VA. Delight in guided tastings, expert-led seminars, and gourmet food pairings, all set against the backdrop of the museum. The scene is perfectly set with live music and a souvenir glass to take home.
January ushers in Mardi Gras season in New Orleans, LA, abundant with cultural celebrations, parades, and traditions. One of the most unique displays of the month is Chewbacchus, a sci-fi themed parade that blends wildly creative Star Wars costumes with imaginative floats, marching Krewes (organizations especially for carnivals!), and a playful, inclusive energy. A full list of other exciting Mardi Gras parades can be found here.
One of the coolest southern events of 2026 is Haywood Ice Fest Weekend in Haywood County, NC, bringing four days of icy fun to five mountain towns. Marvel at live ice carving demonstrations while you warm up with local food and drinks, before you lace up for the ice skating rink or the Frosty 5K.
We may be deep into winter, but that won’t stop the flowers from blooming at A Floral Fête in Jackson, MS. Elegance meets botanicals as a living canvas takes over the Mississippi Museum of Art, featuring exquisite floral installations that are inspired by the art on the walls. Attendees can expect live music, a silent auction, and a selection of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
I’ve been privileged to spend a lot of time in small Southern towns riddled with charming historic downtowns and the friendliest locals you ever did meet. But with that often comes a pattern – a few local spots barely holding on, and chains and corporations creeping in seemingly by the second.
When I visited Shelbyville, Kentucky, I was pleased to find a complete deviation from the latter part of small-town Americana. I sauntered down that adorable Main Street doing double-takes – that vintage clothing store was started by a local kid when he was 19 years old. That hat shop? A milliner creating 600+ custom pieces a year. The cheese shop, the boutique, the coffee shop… all are locally owned, and many by young entrepreneurs who chose to build something in their own towns rather than fleeing to bigger cities.
So if your 2026 travel plans can include supporting a small town with locally owned, independently run businesses in charming small towns, have we got the guide for you.
Here’s a small sample of the spots to check out during your visit to Shelbyville.
Shelby Vintage
When I was 19, I was angsty and skipping my morning classes. When Braden Roberts was 19, he started what would become Shelby Vintage, a super cool collection of pre-1990s apparel. The brand amassed a social media following that brought people to town to dig through his inventory, and soon after opening his first brick-and-mortar, he moved into a larger storefront just down the street in downtown Shelbyville.
Wakefield-Scearce Galleries at Science Hill
This American Dream story dates back to 1825 when Julia Tevis did something unprecedented: she opened Science Hill Female Academy based on the belief that girls were just as capable as boys in science, math, and chemistry. Gasp! For 114 years, it was one of the most respected female boarding schools in the country, attracting students from across America to study in what was then the Kentucky wilderness.
In 1947, Mark Wakefield and Mark Scearce leased the old chapel to sell English antiques, and eventually took over the entire space. Today, the Wakefield-Scearce Galleries span 35,000 square feet, transforming the classrooms, dorms, courtyards, and more into an enthralling destination for appreciators of art, history, antiques, and beautiful things in general. When silver was rationed during World War II, Mark Scearce had to pivot his jewelry business and started creating his own handmade sterling silver mint julep cups. They’re iconic, recognizable, and available for purchase onsite today (and, if you take a “behind the scenes” tour, you can peek into the silver vault).
If you time your visit to Shelbyville for Christmas (highly recommend), the gallery transforms into 30+ themed rooms of holiday displays that take months to prepare, and the gifting opportunities are, obviously, endless.
Something Cheesy
I believe I was a mouse in a former life given my obsession with all things dairy, so the Shelby County tourism team knew exactly what they were doing when they brought me to Something Cheesy.
The downtown shop is owned by Claire Kelly, with her husband Bill providing tech support and their dog Nikolai handling quality control via cheese tax collection (where do I submit my resume?). This female-owned business was built on a passion for clean eating, offering non-GMO products sourced in the United States, and promoting a healthier society—all while celebrating really good cheese.
In true small-town fashion, they’ve partnered with the community theater across the street so that you can grab a to-go charcuterie cup before the show or during intermission.
The Polkadotted Pineapple
We’ve written about Dori Lewis before on Modern South, so when I met her in person at The Polkadotted Pineapple, I was a little starstruck. We chatted for a bit before I put my blinders on to bypass the rows of cute blouses and coats on a mission to stare at her handiwork: dozens of hats in various stages of completion were displayed across the back of the shop—feathers and colors galore exploded in a delightful feast for the eyes.
Dori is a modern-day milliner who creates more than 600 headpieces annually from her brick-and-mortar shop on Main Street, many for the Kentucky Derby. What started as a hobby making hats for friends became a real business that’s keeping Kentucky’s millinery tradition alive in Shelbyville. You can buy ready-made hats or book an appointment for a custom piece at the Polkadotted Pineapple.
Sixth & Main Coffeehouse
The building (a former drug store) has been standing since around 1860, but Sixth & Main has been serving downtown Shelbyville since 2005. They roast their own coffee twice a day, and if you time your stroll down Main Street just right, you can smell it wafting into the street.
I stopped in for an afternoon iced latte and found everything you’d want from a locally-owned coffee shop: local art on display, new and used books available for purchase, a friendly barista, and a few locals typing away productively before quittin’ time.
This article is presented in partnership with Visit ShelbyKY, a Modern South Founding Partner.
Located in one of the busiest intersections in the world,Tempo by HiltonNew YorkTimes Square is perched high above the city that never sleeps. With its modern design and central location, it’s the ideal spot for travelers looking to experience New York City’s pulsating energy. Whether you check in for business or leisure, Tempo by Hilton is the perfect accommodation to be at the center of it all—or, if you’re like us—to kick up your feet for some much needed R&R after a long day of exploring.
Image: Pavarini McGovern
The Property
Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square is a sleek and contemporary hotel that blends both luxury and comfort with chic energy. The rooms feature high-tech elements including motorized blinds (the perfect way to soak in or scrub out Times Squares’ bright lights) and a Bluetooth-enabled bathroom mirror—a must when getting ready for the day or a night out on the town! Each guest room is also equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer incredible views of both the skyline and city streets below… we couldn’t stop staring! The beds are comfortable (the key to a successful night’s rest) and lighting creates the perfect ambiance for some relaxation after navigating Manhattan’s busy streets.
Image: Tempo by Hilton
Food & Drink
When it comes to bites and bevs, the hotel offers a few different dining options. Developed in collaboration with Bluestone Lane—an Australian-inspired premium coffee roaster, café, and lifestyle brand—you can fuel your Midtown morning with an assortment of hearty and healthy options for breakfast, including artisanal smoothies, coffee, pastries, and more. Paying homage to the city’s culinary heritage is the hotel’s signature restaurant and cocktail lounge, Highball. You can expect light bites plus a spirit-forward and free-spirited cocktail menu, which was developed in collaboration with renowned cocktail expert Derek Brown. Designed for both sober-curious guests and traditional cocktail enthusiasts alike, the menu features a lineup of no- and low-alcohol offerings which are paired with a spirited counterpart. Take in the city’s nightlife and energy from the newly expanded terrace or kick back, relax, and watch the sun set on the Empire State while socializing with friends.
Image: Pavarini McGovern
Amenities
The hotel is home to 31 New Year’s Eve ball drop rooms featuring close-up views of the famous Times Square Ball via floor-to-ceiling windows. (We recommended booking a room with this view well in advance!). There’s also event spaces with modern technology for meetings, conferences, or private gatherings, plus a state-of-the-art fitness center and signature hydration stations. In addition, the hotel’s dedicated wellness room features a Peloton Bike and access to a library of digital content, a yoga mat, and resistance bands. And our favorite? Their literary partnership with the Book Club Bar, where you can pre-purchase a book before your stay to enjoy alongside of their literary-inspired cocktails.
Looking for more hotels around the region? Click here.
With Christmas right around the corner and the winter months afoot, the season of cozy sweaters and layers aplenty has returned–making it easier to enjoy an extra sweet or two without overthinking it. While Ridgeland, Mississippi, is more traditionally known for its flourishing shopping, entertainment, and dining scenes, I’d say the sweet treat scene is something you don’t want to miss.
Next time you find yourself in this Mississippi gem, indulge those seasonal cravings and stop by one of these deliciously wonderful local spots.
Seasonal Coffees
Image: Explore Ridgeland
Fusion Coffeehouse
Fusion Coffeehouse lives up to its name, seamlessly blending coffee, gelato, and traditional cafe fare all in one spot, making it the perfect place to warm your body and satisfy your appetite. Right now, they’re featuring plenty of classic winter flavors on their drink menu, including chestnut, butterscotch, and toasted marshmallow. Of course, no coffeehouse beverage is complete without a pastry, so don’t forget to check out their daily selection.
Image: Explore Ridgeland
CC’s Coffee
Originally founded in New Orleans, CC’s Coffee runs with deep Louisiana roots. To ring in the chilly season, they’ve concocted plenty of twisty takes on the truest winter flavor there is: peppermint. In addition to their classic coffee menu, non-coffee drinkers have plenty of fruity and fizzy options to choose from. My suggestion? Try one of their “Mochasippi” drinks, a blended, frozen espresso-based treat that is oh so good–even in the winter.
Christmas Cookies
Image: Explore Ridgeland
Bo’s Bakeshop
Nothing rings in the holiday season quite like expertly decorated sugar cookies, and at Bo’s Bakeshop, they are masters of their craft. With several design and shape varieties– including vintage artwork to satisfy the old souls–you are sure to find the perfect gift for anyone on your list and a sweet treat for yourself to boot.
Image: Explore Ridgeland
Whimsy Cookie
With a spray of both festive and creative twists on cookie classics, Santa would have a field day at Whimsy Cookie. A baked-to-perfection menu includes bite-sized cookies known as “Whimsy Bites,” eight different flavors of gooey butter cookies, cookie sandwiches, and iconic iced sugar cookies.
Cakes, Croissants, & Donuts
Image: Explore Ridgeland
Buenos Aires Bakery
Combining South American flavors with classic American desserts and treats, Buenos Aires Bakery adds a little personal flair and taste of their heritage in all the pastries they make. Rich caramel flavors from dulce de leche, sweet and tangy tropical fruits, and warm, aromatic spices are frequent fliers in their rotating bakery case options.
Image: Explore Ridgeland
Mochinut
In careful collaboration, donuts and mochi have come together to bring us one unique pastry: the mochinut. Named after its prized treat, Mochinut offers frequently rotating flavors, along with a few tried-and-true menu staples that are sure to impress. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try one of their Korean corndogs–a unique experience where you can build-a-corndog, down to picking your filling and topping (Hot Cheetos, crispy ramen, cheddar cheese…).
Image: Explore Ridgeland
Primo’s Café and Bake Shop
Christmas is about tradition, family, and love–three things Primo’s knows a lot about. Since 1929, they have been serving the community with laughter, joy, and, of course, good eats. This Christmas, not only can you graze their chock-full bakery case of goodies, you can also place a catering order and bring home some of their famous glazed ham, signature Southern sides, and, of course, plenty of homemade pies to impress your loved ones.
This article is presented in partnership with Explore Ridgeland, a Modern South Founding Partner.
Mississippi doesn’t do Christmas halfway. From million-light displays spanning 40 acres to month-long celebrations in river towns that look charming enough for a Hallmark script, the state transforms into a holiday destination that rivals any other in the South.
The only problem is choosing where to go–these towns pull you in with ice-skating rinks, historic mansions decked out in designer trees, and even choose-and-cut tree farms because the state has a surprising evergreen agricultural history that was news to me, a former resident.
While this guide hits all the festive highlights, holiday travel doesn’t end when the presents are opened. Read to the bottom and you’ll find plenty to do through the end of the year, and beyond.
Planning a Mississippi getaway? We’ve broken things down based on interest here.
Real-Life Hallmark Towns
Natchez
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, Natchez is a postcard personified for the entire month of December. The centerpiece is a 34-foot “forever tree” at Main and Commerce Streets—donated by none other than Taco Bell in 2018. The lighting ceremony takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and features pyrotechnics synced to Christmas carols.
Beyond the tree, the month-long Christmas in Natchez celebration takes over Memorial Park with lights, caroling, food trucks, and rides for kids. What sets it apart is the inclusivity—this nonprofit-run event includes dedicated Kwanzaa and Hanukkah displays.
Canton
Canton’s historic square transforms into a Christmas village starting November 28. We’re talking Rudolph’s Playground, an 18-foot walk-through gift box, a three-story Christmas tree, a 16-foot snowman you can walk inside, storytime from Mrs. Claus, an animation museum, firetruck and train rides, Santa’s Cookie Shop, and, believe it or not, the list goes on. The Canton Christmas Festival runs through December 23 with a brief closure in early December.
Oxford
ESPN’s “Best College Town” may rest its helmets, but certainly not its laurels, when the holiday season hits. Holly Jolly Holidays in Oxford kicks off November 22 and includes a 4,000-square-foot ice-skating rink with real ice at mTrade Park. The Lighting of the Square happens November 13 at 6 p.m., wrapping the entire square (the town’s focal point) in a canopy of dazzling lights.
The new Walk of Lights at mTrade Park features custom-designed displays you can stroll through while drinking hot chocolate or roasting marshmallows from the on-site concessions. Oxford also runs a Peppermint Trail—a self-guided tour of local spots serving peppermint everything from coffee to cocktails and sweets. And of course, downtown shops go all out with their holiday decor, so you can cross some folks off your list.
Image: Any Lane
Choose-and-Cut Your Own Tree
Mississippi has a surprisingly robust Christmas tree industry. Did you know that about 95% of the state’s tree production happens on choose-and-cut farms? Virginia pine used to dominate, but Leyland cypress has become the star, along with an increasing number of “living Christmas trees” you can plant in your yard after the ornaments come down.
Merry Christmas Tree Farm in Nesbit bills itself as the number one tree farm in the Mid-South, complete with a hayride into the fields, trees netted at no charge, and a Christmas gift shop for browsing while someone else carries your tree.
Christmas Memories, a tree farm near Magnolia, has been creating family traditions for more than 30 years on gently rolling hills surrounded by natural woods. You’ll navigate aptly-named roads–Jingle Bell Lane, Frosty Lane, and Reindeer Lane–to find your tree among naturally grown Leyland cypress.
Thomley’s in Hattiesburg has been around since 1967 and adds a unique twist—the farm is owned by Jeremy Thomley, a glass-blowing artist who runs Mississippi’s only glassblowing hot shop. Featured on HGTV’s “Hometown,” Thomley’s also has a renovated farmhouse available on Airbnb if you want to stay awhile.
Image: Visit Mississippi
Quintessential Christmas Experiences You Can’t Skip
Merrehope’s Trees of Christmas | Meridian
This 1858 Greek Revival mansion, which once survived Sherman’s Meridian Campaign, now hosts one of Mississippi’s top-rated holiday attractions: Trees of Christmas. From November 24 through December 31, more than 60 elaborately decorated trees fill the 20-room neoclassical mansion, Merrehope. Each year features brand-new designs that draw visitors from around the globe.
Harbor Lights Winter Festival | Gulfport
Mississippi’s largest Christmas light show sprawls across 40 acres of Jones Park with more than 1.5 million lights. Starting in 2015 as a collaboration between Island View Casino & Resort and the City of Gulfport, Harbor Lights has grown into a full festival with carnival rides, a train station, Santa’s Village with working elves, and a “Dancing Trees” show.
50 Nights of Lights | Cleveland
More than one million lights transform the town of Cleveland from November 9 through January 1 in a free display that features musical-themed decorations. The 50 Nights of Lights installation is a tribute to the Grammy Museum located in town, and also features a Candy Land section and train-themed displays for the local Depot and Train Museum. Visitors can opt to walk or drive through town to experience the lights.
Image: Visit Mississippi
Shopping Destinations Worth Clearing Your Calendar
Ridgeland
Ridgeland’s retail trail runs from big-name brands at Renaissance at Colony Park (home to Mississippi’s only Apple store) to the boutiques of Old Town Railroad District. The Bill Waller Craft Center on the Natchez Trace Parkway showcases work from over 400 southeastern craft artists so you can snag a truly unique and meaningful gift–quilts, baskets, metal sculpture, fused glass, jewelry–and every purchase includes the artist’s biography. During the Wrap It In Ridgeland campaign, stop by the Ridgeland Visitors Center when you book a hotel, and they’ll give you a high-quality shopping bag for housing your haul.
Ocean Springs
With more than 100 unique shops, Ocean Springs is the Gulf Coast’s largest shopping destination (and arguably its cutest town). The walkable downtown district features colorful window displays, art galleries with works from local and international artists, and boutiques offering everything from designer footwear to home goods.
Vicksburg
Downtown Vicksburg, named a Great American Main Street Association semifinalist, is a contender for the best and most beautiful shopping option in the entire state. The brick-paved Washington Street is lined with old-fashioned gaslights and packed with boutiques, antique shops, bookstores, and art galleries. If you prefer traditional mall shopping, hit Vicksburg Mall or Vicksburg Commons.
Image: Visit Mississippi
Extend the Merriment: Post-Christmas Party Plans
The Mississippi Gulf Coast | Biloxi
The Mississippi Coast knows how to keep a party going all year long. Biloxi has beachfront access, incredible coastal dining, and massive casinos, making it the ideal destination for revelry. Many of the area casinos and hotels host dedicated New Year’s Eve events, but, honestly, a craft cocktail and penny slots are enough to keep me entertained well past midnight.
Midnight on Front Street | Hattiesburg
Hattiesburg claims Mississippi’s best New Year’s Eve celebration since debuting in 2018. The centerpiece is a replica of the original 1912 Hub sign that drops from a firetruck ladder at midnight. Live music on string-lit streets, food vendors, downtown restaurant specials, fireworks at midnight followed by breakfast sounds like a perfect way to ring in the new year.
Tupelo’s New Year’s Eve Party
Downtown Tupelo goes all out with bands on two stages, KidsFest for families, live music, fireworks, and a midnight countdown from the BNA Bank Fairpark Stage. This year’s lineup includes Even Odds, 8 South Band, DJ Gucci Girl, Joe Austin and The Tallahatchies, and City Mix.
| This article is presented in partnership by Visit Mississippi, a Modern South Founding Partner.
Most Napa trips involve driving from restaurant to restaurant, hunting down the right spot for every mood and meal, and fighting booking platforms for when reservation times and drive times line up perfectly. The Meritage Resort flips that script with a lineup of dining options that actually delivers on both variety and quality—all without leaving one singular property.
Here’s a deep dive on everywhere you can dine in one destination.
Image: Meritage Resort
Ember Steak
This is the crown jewel of the resort and easily worth the trip there on its own if you’re celebrating a special occasion. We worked our way through the menu during our dinner here—sushi topped with gold flakes and caviar, a massive shrimp cocktail, fresh oysters, and perfectly seared ribeyes. The ribeyes arrived with that perfect char on the outside, but were still tender and juicy inside. And although massive, I found room in my second stomach and finished the entire thing without regret.
But steakhouse sides are just as important as the main event IMO, and the ones here are noteworthy: mac and cheese loaded with gruyère, comté, bacon, scallions, and raclette (my favorite cheese, and perhaps food, ever), potatoes in multiple forms—mashed, twice-baked, fried, sauteed mushrooms, and plenty of sauces to accompany them all. The wine list runs deep as one would expect in Napa, showcasing the region’s best alongside bottles from further afield. But the cocktail program matches its ambition with creative pours and classic preparations executed flawlessly. I’m happy to report their Paper Plane received a 10/10 from this tough critic.
Image: Meritage Resort
Olive and Hay
Located across the way from Ember Steakhouse, this modern Italian spot has a farm-to-table focus that leans lighter and brighter than indulgent steakhouse fare. Chef Patrick Callarec, a Perigueux, France, native who started his culinary training at a French academy when he was just 13, leads this all-day dining room with flawless expertise. Mornings start with avocado toast and frittatas, then transition to Italian favorites by dinner: delightfully spicy Calabria pizza, braised lamb ragu rigatoni, seafood-topped linguine, chicken marsala with mushrooms, a vegetable-packed risotto. You can go big or stay lighter here, should you be eager to soak up the day’s revelry or keep the wine tasting flowing.
Image: Meritage Resort
Fivetown Grocery
If you’re headed out to explore the vineyards—whether on the Meritage property or venturing to other wineries across the valley—Fivetown Grocery is stocked with everything you need. The grab-and-go section carries snacks, cheeses, charcuterie, and bottles of wine perfect for packing your picnic basket, and the deli counter makes fresh sandwiches and salads to order so you can customize exactly what you want for your afternoon in the vines.
Image: Meritage Resort
Crush Lounge
When you’re ready to take a night to relax or get a little competitive, Crush Lounge delivers a little bit of both—a laid-back sports bar with a bowling alley attached and elevated bar food that offers a little more than standard pub fare. There are shareable bar bites like jalapeno poppers and nachos for passing around between bowls, or heartier mains like smashburgers and grain bowls to fuel the second round.
I’ve always been a stickler for tradition during the holidays, so much so that I make a bucket list every season and follow it meticulously (do you receive our toolkit every month? Case in point). At Thanksgiving and Christmas, I expect cold weather, twinkling lights, holiday music, and festive flavors to collide into a merry little sensory experience. This year, the holiday season kicked off with a November getaway to Puerto Vallarta, where we stayed at Villa La Estancia in Riviera Nayarit. Between the time of year we visited and the incessant buzz of group chats making travel plans, the holidays were top of mind during our trip. So when I spotted menu items like pumpkin flour enchiladas and heard chatter about holiday decor going up soon, my sensory-driven self perked up. I had one main takeaway: I could surely spend the holidays here.
I never thought I’d say it, but here’s my official petition for a holiday trip to Mexico this year. Here’s our review of Villa La Estancia, a Puerto Vallarta all-inclusive resort.
Image: Kellie Walton
The Food
Most all-inclusive resorts serve forgettable buffet food you only eat because it’s there. Villa La Estancia operates on a hybrid model—bookable hotel rooms are mixed with privately-owned suites and vacation rentals, so all-inclusive packages are optional. This means the food has to be good better be good, because many of the patrons are dropping their credit cards at the end of the meal.
Dining outlets span everything from upscale steakhouses to Japanese sushi bars and poolside grills, each paying careful attention to detail, down to the plating. Whether we were dining at the flagship steakhouse, La Casona, for our farewell dinner (we had perfectly-cooked beef tenderloin that the sommelier, Hugo, paired with a wine from a boutique Mexican winery while a server serenaded the dining room with opera during the pianists’ breaks) or munching on wood-fired pizzas in the late afternoon, gazing out at the ocean, we were consistently amazed at the quality and consistency we found.
Image: Villa La Estancia
Holiday Programming
Villa La Estancia runs seasonal menus from Halloween through New Year’s. The Thanksgiving menu has things like pumpkin cream with whisky topped with a parmesan crisp, puffy pastries with confit turkey and pink mole, and a caramel apple mule. Christmas has almond-crusted lamb chops, Michoacán-style corundas with gingerbread cookies, and a green Grinch mimosa made with sparkling wine, pineapple juice, Blue Curaçao, a red sugar rim, and a strawberry on top. The New Year’s menu features baked pork loin in apple-anise sauce, spiced cake, and a Midnight Kiss cocktail: vodka, Blue Curaçao, lime, sparkling wine, and cherries.
Image: Villa La Estancia
Amenities & Details
Our suite had a full kitchen, a washer and dryer, a bathtub, a living room, a dining table, and a balcony facing the ocean. For families or groups traveling for the holidays, you have plenty of room to cook a meal, spread out, or open presents. Ubers were easy to get, and the concierge is there 24 hours a day to help should you need it.
All Villa La Estancia guests have access to the Villa del Palmar resort next door, giving you twice the restaurants and pools. And yes, they’re also included in the all-inclusive package. Our side of the property was more calm and laidback, while the Villa del Palmar side had more energy with an activities team, more families, a splash pad, and pool games. Ours had the swim-up bar, though, so that’s where we camped out.
Lastly, don’t skip a spa day during your trip. This was my mom’s first time in Mexico, and since it was days before her birthday, massages at the Tatewari Spa were a necessity. We took advantage of the hydrotherapy circuit after our treatment, which included glasses of chlorophyll water, a sauna, a steam room, a hot tub, a cold plunge, cucumber eye masks, and aromatherapy heat wraps. She didn’t want to leave.
They’ve long said there’s no place like home for the holidays, but if you’re up for stepping outside your comfort zone, I can’t recommend this resort enough.
The holiday season is here, and Tupelo is ready to help you cross every name off your list. Between the historic boutiques and the classic small-town Southern charm, the birthplace of “The King of Rock and Roll” is the perfect place to knock out your holiday shopping.
Hop in the car, cruise down the Natchez Trace Parkway before the fall leaves are gone (luckily they linger longer in the South), and spend a day or two finding meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifts for him, her, home, and more.
For Him:
Image: Tupelo CVB
Reed’s
Start your holiday shopping trip at Reed’s, a family-run business that’s been in town for 120 years. With quality apparel brands and dapper accessories filling the store, you’d be hard-pressed to leave empty-handed—and if you’re not sure what to get, the staff knows their stuff and will help you find something even for the fella on your list who’s impossible to shop for.
MLM Clothiers
If someone on your list enjoys fine haberdashery, hit MLM Clothiers next. Their motto is “dress better than you have to,” and the holidays are a perfect excuse to go all-in. They stock some of the finest brands on the market and serve as one of the largest men’s traditional specialty stores in all of Mississippi, even offering on-site tailoring. MLM Clothiers knows exactly how to flip and fix an outdated wardrobe or spruce up and properly complement what’s already there.
For Her:
Image: Tupelo CVB
The Vine Collection
This elegant retail space has a little bit of everything to create the perfect shopping experience for a special lady in your life (or yourself—we won’t tell). Get lost in hand-selected apparel options, fashionable yet classic interior design items, and perfect holiday tablescapes to get you ready for the season. Best part? When you need a mid-shopping spree pick-me-up, Sweet Tea & Biscuits Café is located right inside The Vine Collection.
Image: Tupelo CVB
L.A. Green
This fashion-forward boutique franchise has several locations sprinkled around the South, and L.A. Green Tupelo is nestled off Main Street in a charming historic building. When you step inside, you’ll find plenty of timeless classics and trendy styles to choose from, all sourced with value, integrity, and purpose in mind. From clothes to accessories, sorority merch, and home decor, there’s sure to be something for every lady on your list.
For Home:
Image: Tupelo CVB
Blair Haus Interiors
From holiday party hostess gifts to practical presents for anyone on your list, Blair Haus Interiors offers fashionable, hand-picked home decor items in their Tupelo showroom and shoppable online. There’s everything from Art Deco champagne glasses and coffee table books to beautiful pieces of furniture depending on your budget, plus the team offers interior design services if you’re looking to gift a full experience.
Image: Tupelo CVB
Elizabeth Clair’s
Elizabeth Clair’s is an anomaly: boutique-meets-department-store-meets-antique-mall where everything is curated and quality, brimming with the best brands – Lenox, Waterford, Estelle, and plenty more. They’ve got departments for games and toys, dining and entertainment, kitchen, and holiday-specific gifts, so there are options for anyone and any age. As an added bonus, the store is a delightful shopping experience during the holidays.
For The Old Soul:
Presley Heights Antique Mall
Nothing feels quite as heartwarming as receiving an antique gift someone picked out especially for you. At Presley Heights Antique Mall, you can easily spend hours perusing the aisles and booths filled with antique glassware, hand-carved furniture, vintage artwork, and so much more. Pay them a visit and give yourself plenty of time to sort through all the historic Southern gems you’re sure to find.
Image: Tupelo CVB
Relics Antique Marketplace
Relics Antique Marketplace is housed in the old Tupelo Garment Factory–where Elvis Presley’s mother once worked. The building has 16,000 square feet of stalls and booths, so there’s as much history in the space as there is in what you’ll find inside. Whether you’re searching for the perfect quirky gift for a loved one or are eager to walk through a little piece of rock and roll history, let this Tupelo gem help you find what you need.
This article is presented in partnership with Tupelo CVB, a Modern South Founding Partner.
Keep shopping for more Southern-inspired finds here.
Winter kicks off with a sprinkle of extra joy in December as annual festive markets, Victorian-style celebrations, and family-friendly gatherings begin. The warm embrace of Southern hospitality buzzes through the cold air while time-honored traditions blend with new favorites to create a heartwarming holiday season. These events are a snapshot of the South at its most magical.
November 28-December 23, 2025 / Closed Dec 1-4, 2025
Canton, MS comes alive this Christmas with the Canton Christmas Festival held in the Historic Courthouse Square. Over 200,000 twinkling lights dance along the streets while festival goers holiday shop, take photo opportunities with Santa, and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides. Named the most festive town in Mississippi, Canton is the perfect backdrop for this charming family tradition.
Prepare to be dazzled as the Galaxy of Lights takes over the Huntsville Botanical Garden. Magic and whimsy await at every turn with animated light displays and joyful scenes, with options to walk or drive through the experience. The event celebrates its 30th season in 2025 with new additions like the Evergreen Express tram ride and dedicated Sensory Hours.
A traditional European-style Christmas market is finding its place right in Atlanta at the Christkindl Market – a gathering of over 80 vendors plus an iconic ferris wheel. Indulge in international cuisine with favorites like schnitzel and pierogies, then shop homemade ornaments, home decor, and so much more. Finish the night with a mulled hot apple cider!
The grand arrival of Santa Claus kicks off 4 days of seasonal events and festivities in Rock Hill. Step into a storybook weekend of wonder at ChristmasVille, where an ice skating rink, gingerbread house contest, Dickens carolers, and more will become a part of your cherished Christmas 2025 memories.
The 40th annual Bardstown Road Aglow will light up the night while supporting local businesses in the Highlands of Louisville, KY. Enjoy special drinks from sponsor Maker’s Mark, free trolley rides, and live holiday music. Participating shops and restaurants will even be offering special event discounts!
21st Ever Nog-Off – A Friendly Eggnog Competition | Little Rock, AR
December 12, 2025
Eggnog experts and novices alike are invited to decide who will be crowned champion of the 21st Ever Nog-Off in Little Rock, AR. Local restaurants and organizations come together to deliver their take on the classic Christmas treat, with a handful of awards up for grabs. Not only will attendees sample nog and cast their votes, but they’ll also be entertained with live music, open art galleries, and caroling around the fire.
The timeless character of Franklin, TN sets the scene for the recreation of the days of Charles Dickens, complete with characters from Oliver Twist and A Christmas Carol. It may be cold this December, but Dickens of a Christmas brings a cozy atmosphere to Main Street as visitors are delighted by unique shopping vendors, holiday dancers, and delicious food options. A Victorian Father and Mother Christmas will have special treats for all the good boys and girls!
IYKYK: The Leiper’s Fork community brings plenty of personality to their annual Christmas Parade, as a single road through town is jam packed with a procession of tractors, animals, and the one and only Santa. This Southern small town parade has captured the hearts of residents, and is a must-do for anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind way to get into the holiday spirit.
Get out of the frosty snow (okay, maybe just a saying in New Orleans) and into an indoor winter wonderland packed with jolly things to do at any age. The NOLA ChristmasFest has everything from carnival rides to a gingerbread village to a real ice rink. If the Polar Pub ends up calling your name, let us know what you think of the Eggnog Daiquiri.
Shopping small automatically makes holiday gifting feel more meaningful. I don’t know about you, but in the days when clicking a button can have an item arrive at your doorstep in an hour, knowing that someone took the time to browse a shop and pick something out that reminded them of me means so much more than it used to.
Ridgeland, Mississippi, is a premier shopping destination where you can knock out everything on your list. Yes, it has Mississippi’s only Apple store for when you need to snag AirPods and iPhones (I humbly admit they’re on my list, too), but it also has charming independent boutiques, one of America’s oldest toy stores, an entire craft center filled with artisan wares, and one of the most heartwarming stores in the entire South.
So hit the road (might we recommend the Natchez Trace Parkway) and head to a town where shopping doesn’t just mean crossing names off a list, but also supports real people, real missions, and real craftsmanship that’ll outlast whatever’s trending on Amazon.
Image: Explore Ridgeland
Boutique Finds at Hemline and Coattails
Brigitte Holthausen moved from Brazil to New Orleans at 16 and spent years selling jewelry and backpacks at the Historic French Market, learning what made fashion stand out. In 1993, she and her husband, Luciano, opened a small boutique on Chartres Street, marking the origin of the beloved Southeast boutique empire, Hemline. The brand has become known for its signature lavender shopping bags and for its curated clothing, which you’ll find at Ridgeland’s Township at Colony Park location.
Coattails has anchored Ridgeland for more than 16 years, specializing in women’s designer clothing and accessories from brands like Frame, Cinq à Sept, Philippe Model, Ulla Johnson, Rag & Bone, and Theory. The boutique on West Jackson Street offers in-store stylists who help create looks that work for everything from weddings to weekend brunch – so if you don’t know exactly what to purchase, bring your loved one for a styling session and gift the experience instead.
Image: Explore Ridgeland
Kid-Approved Gifts at The Commissary
The Commissary has been Mississippi’s premier toy and gift emporium since 1969, making it one of the oldest independent toy stores in the entire country. Starting as The Olde Tyme Commissary in Greenwood, the store built its reputation on unique specialty toys and hand-painted, customized children’s items like doll furniture, handcrafted step stools, name puzzles, Halloween buckets, Christmas ornaments, and its famed Easter eggs and baskets.
After a move to Jackson in 1972, The Commissary found its current home at Renaissance at Colony Park in Ridgeland in 2015. The store carries everything from the classic toys you remember from childhood if you want to gift a dose of nostalgia, to the latest educational gadgets, science and art projects, outdoor play equipment, musical toys, board games, plush toys, and dolls for little ones on your list. They’re also the exclusive dealer in central Mississippi for Delta-made McCarty Pottery and carry other select lines of stoneware, recycled glass, and original artwork. To make your life a little easier, gift wrapping here is always free.
Image: Explore Ridgeland
One-of-a-Kind Artisan Wares at Bill Waller Craft Center
Nestled just off the Natchez Trace Parkway, the Bill Waller Craft Center is the headquarters for the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi. Once inside the 20,000-square-foot gallery, you’ll find custom works from more than 400 guild members ranging from quilts to baskets and wood-carved spoons, metal sculptures, fused glass, handcrafted jewelry, the list goes on. While you can certainly browse, you can also purchase. And when you do, it’ll come along with a biography of the artist so you know exactly whose hands made it.
Image: Explore Ridgeland
Gifts That Give Back at The Mustard Seed
The Mustard Seed opened its second gift shop in Ridgeland’s Old Town Railroad District in January 2023. The ministry has been serving adults with developmental disabilities since 1981, providing a Christ-centered community where participants–called “Seedsters”–can work, create, and build skills like creating handcrafted items to sell in the gift shop.
The Mustard Seed, next door to the Lily Pad Café (which shares the same mission), sells the ceramics, art, and handcrafted items made by Seedsters in the workshop, with all proceeds directly funding programs that provide spiritual, physical, emotional, and intellectual support to the community, This means your gift matters twice… once for whoever receives it, and again for the person who made it.
This article is presented in partnership with Explore Ridgeland, a Modern South Founding Partner.
