Photo courtesy of Visit Mississippi
The Neshoba County Fair is known for many things, including music.
With that in mind, the Country Music Trail Commission has recognized the fair with its own marker on the trail.
“The Neshoba County Fair is one of Mississippi’s great contributions to the history of country music. This 36th marker on the Country Music Trail recognizes that history and the many artists who have been a part of that tradition,” Visit Mississippi Director Craig Ray said.
Along with Ray, speakers at an event on the grounds of the ongoing fair included state Rep. Scott Bounds and Sen. Jenifer Branning, who represent Neshoba County and surrounding area. Also in attendance were country music artists Michael Hardy and Philadelphia native Marty Stuart.
“The Neshoba County Fair is honored to be selected as one the five sites on the 2021 Mississippi Country Music Trail. We look forward to the marker’s permanent placement at Founders Square on the Neshoba County Fairgrounds, which will publicly display the Fair’s rich history of bringing country music’s biggest stars to Mississippi’s Giant Houseparty and its patrons,” said Rep. Bounds, who serves as vice president and program committee chairman for the fair.
The Neshoba County Fair began as an agricultural showcase in the late 19th century. Over the years the event has become a destination for politicians and entertainers, earning its nickname of “Mississippi’s Giant Houseparty.” Country artists and stars of the Grand Ole Opry have appeared at the fair, including Mississippi natives Charley Pride, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Philadelphia’s own Marty Stuart.
This year’s fair runs through Friday.
