One of central Mississippi’s most popular outdoor concerts and picnic events is just around the corner.
Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s Pepsi Pops will celebrate its 45th year of putting a symphonic spin on chart toppers, movie themes, Broadway hits, and patriotic fare in front of picnickers looking to enjoy the tunes, a corresponding fireworks show, and the scenery surrounding the Ross Barnett Reservoir. The event will get underway on Friday, May 8.
This year’s rendition will have an extra American flair, as the music and fireworks display will be specifically catered to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States being a nation. Featured in this year’s orchestra lineup are Morton Gould’s “American Salute,” Aaron Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man,” John Williams’ “Hymn to the Fallen,” Kenneth Alford’s “Colonel Bogey’s March,” and more.
Where is Pepsi Pops
Pepsi Pops takes place each year at Old Trace Park on the Ridgeland side of the Ross Barnett Reservoir
Schedule of events
- 5:00 pm – Gates open
- 5:45 pm – Mississippi Youth Symphony Orchestra woodwinds
- 6:30 pm – David Keary & Friends
- 7:30 pm – Concert begins, with fireworks following
Tickets
Tickets to Pepsi Pops are $5 for students at any level of schooling and $15 for general admission when purchased online. Tickets bought at the gate are $20 per person.
Parking
Free parking is available adjacent to Old Trace Park lot on a first-come, first-served basis, though spaces fill up quickly. Other free parking options will be available at nearby lots.
Parking passes are available
Pass permits parking in the lot closest to the green space and is accessible through the gate located on Post Road. $35.
What to bring
One of the most beloved traditions of Pepsi Pops is the picnic atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to enjoy dinner with family and friends while listening to the music. Visitors can also bring pets, as long as they’re on a leash.
Prefer to grab something on-site? A variety of local food truck vendors will be serving up crowd favorites throughout the evening, including:
- Mando’s — serving authentic Mexican street food
- Street Dough — serving freshly-baked cookies
- Beach Babes Beignets — serving “light, fluffy, and airy” beignets
- AHA Bistro — serving a multitude of food items
- Small Time Hot Dogs — serving franks
What not to bring
To maintain safety, glass receptacles and alcohol are strongly discouraged on-site. Guests are also instructed to avoid setting up tents to prevent the open viewing space from being distorted.
