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If you can believe it, summer in the South is finally here. June is filled to the brim with community, tradition, and contagious energy throughout town squares, festival grounds, and local venues. Across the region, the best of the season is coming to life as the sun comes out and temperatures rise at these time-honored events.
Cathead Jam | Jackson, MS
June 5-6, 2026
It doesn’t take much convincing for us to pay a visit to Cathead Distillery in Jackson, MS, but Cathead Jam gives us as good a reason as any. An epic live music lineup spans two days of a vibrant community atmosphere, topped off with local food and drinks. The event benefits underserved areas of Mississippi, to bring better access to music education.
Alabaster CityFest | Alabaster, AL
June 6, 2026
Alabaster CityFest is all about what Southern cities do best – making big summer festivals feel like familiar neighborhood gatherings. There is something for everyone, from a fully-loaded KidsFest, to a free-entry car show, to big names on the stage, like this year’s headliner Trace Adkins. Alabaster, AL certainly knows how to kick off summer!
Running of the Tubs | Hot Springs, AR
June 6, 2026
Have you ever thought about bathtubs becoming a competitive sport? Join the town of Hot Springs, AR in the Running of the Tubs, where decorated tubs on wheels are raced by teams in costumes down Historic Bathhouse Row. Equal parts spectacle and tradition, this day out makes for squeaky clean fun.
Spirit in the Bluegrass | Lexington, KY
June 10-13, 2026
In Kentucky, bluegrass is as much of the lifeblood of the community as the bourbon. Spirit in the Bluegrass returns to Lexington, KY for four days of deep-rooted music, onsite camping, and late-night jams. This celebration is for anyone who thinks a fiddle sounds better with a drink in hand.
Concerts by Canoe | Rocky Mount, VA
June 12, 2026
The sounds of summer continue in Rocky Mount, VA with Concerts by Canoe, a free concert series on the water. Experience The New Floyd County Ramblers by canoe, kayak, SUP, or float, from your favorite spot on the lake. If you can’t make it in June, there are more nights to join this one-of-a-kind concert throughout July and August.
Downtown at Sundown | Starkville, MS
June 12 and June 26, 2026
Grab your lawn chairs and your blankets, and claim your spot for Downtown at Sundown in Starkville, MS. This free concert series provides all the things you need for a successful summer night – live music, local food and drink, and good company. There are no frills at this event and the beauty lies in its Southern simplicity.
AthFest | Athens, GA
June 26-28, 2026
Festival-lovers flood the streets of Athens, GA for AthFest, a three-day celebration of art, culture, and creativity. Free outdoor stages will host local musical talent before the day turns into an official Club Crawl, where the live music continues at bars and clubs throughout the town. AthFest raises money to support students in music and art education in Athens.
301 Endless Yard Sale | Selma, NC
June 19-20, 2026
The 301 Endless Yard Sale stretches over 100 miles through Selma, NC to bring unexpected treasures together through hundreds of yard sales. Everyday finds like clothes and kitchen gadgets are balanced with unique antique pieces and hidden gems. This can’t-miss shopping experience winds through roadside stops and is especially rewarding for anyone willing to slow down and dig a little deeper.
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