Featured Image: Tupelo CVB
Tupelo, Mississippi, fits more events into a single year than some cities triple its size, and nearly everything happens within walking distance of its charming downtown. And by events, we don’t mean backyard BBQs and weekly farmers’ markets (though there’s a great one every Saturday). We’re talking Elvis, custom car shows, symphony performances, and even a dedicated weekend for chicken wings.
Here’s every major event happening in Tupelo this year.
Winter
The King City Classic (February 13-14) turns Cadence Bank Arena into Mississippi’s newest arena-style show choir venue. If you’ve never experienced the energy of competitive show choir outside of seeing Pitch Perfect in theaters, this is your chance to be dazzled by synchronized choreography, vocal precision, and an infinite amount of sequins.
The North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra celebrates Black History Month on February 21 with vocalist Artina McCain at Link Centre Concert Hall. Their season closer also includes “A Night at the Opera” with violinist Alexander Markov (March 28 at the Lyric Theatre) and a John Williams program in April that’s not to be missed for any lover of Star Wars and/or Jurassic Park.
World of Customs Auto Show (February 27-March 1) takes over the Tupelo Furniture Market for three days of chrome, custom paint jobs, and spectators peering under popped hoods. It’s Mississippi’s largest indoor auto show (a big plus given the unpredictability of late winter weather), featuring a collection of custom cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even antique vehicles.
Spring
A little later in the year, cars hit the streets for the annual Tupelo Blue Suede Cruise (April 30-May 2), which brings classic cars downtown for one of Mississippi’s largest free public events. You don’t need to own your own to enjoy the event; the spectacle of vintage rides, live bands, and food vendors will delight any attendee.
Tupelo Con (May 2-3) has returned to town since it began in 2016. Comics, cosplay, panels, and celebrities from the space (which, in 2026, is already set to include the voice of Bowser, Princess Peach, and Scooby Doo) take over the Tupelo Furniture Market for one weekend only.
If there’s one thing that can rally a Southern community, it’s chicken wings. Wing Fest (May 29-30) at Fairpark is exactly what the name suggests—all of Tupelo’s best wing makers join forces to feed the crowd for two days, set to a backdrop of live music and entertainment.
Summer
Four days of tribute artists, competitions, and Elvis-adjacent programming in the city where it all started… the Tupelo Elvis Festival (June 3-6) returns for its 28th year at the Lyric Theatre in 2026. This year’s talented lineup includes last year’s Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist winner, Jordan Poole.
While details are still being firmed up for events later in the year, mark your calendars for Lee Williams Legacy Fest (July 24-26), which honors Dr. Lee Andrew Williams, an icon in gospel music, through community service and events.
Fall
Change Fest hits the streets every Labor Day weekend, with skateboarding, street art, music, and DIY culture taking over Ballard Park September 4-6.
The Robins Street Art Stroll on October 3 transforms a neighborhood in the heart of Tupelo into an outdoor gallery featuring local artists, live music, food, and activities for kids.
Dancing with the King (October 30-November 1) combines Elvis music with professional and amateur dance, all benefitting vocal and dance scholarships.
Last but certainly not least, end 2026 with a bang at Tupelo’s New Year’s Eve Party. As one of the biggest NYE events in the state, it comes complete with two stages, multiple bands, a KidsFest that ends early (you’re welcome), and a firework show.
Stay in the loop with event updates throughout the year here.
| This article is presented in partnership with Tupelo CVB, a Modern South Founding Partner.
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