Welcome to the Holiday Magic of Hattiesburg and Oxford!
When it comes to charming small towns that ooze holiday spirit, you can’t beat Hattiesburg and Oxford in Mississippi! Recently, both towns made it onto Forbes’ prestigious list of “small towns to experience a Hallmark holiday.” Now, that’s something to celebrate! With just eight places being named, it’s a big deal that two from the same state were recognized for their festive magic. Let’s dive into what makes these towns truly special during the holiday season.
Oxford: A Picture-Perfect Hallmark Town
Starting with Oxford, this town has got the hallmarks (pun intended!) of a classic Christmas film set. With its stunning downtown square, you might just feel as if you’ve stepped right into a heartwarming holiday movie. The square gained fame from its appearance in the movie, “On the 12th Date of Christmas” released in 2020, and was even featured in Fox Business Network’s “Small Town Christmas” series earlier this year.
Kinney Ferris, the executive director of Visit Oxford, expressed the town’s pride in receiving this recognition, saying, “We are honored to see Oxford recognized by Forbes as one of the best small towns to visit for Christmas. Our community takes pride in creating a welcoming atmosphere that captures the magic of the holiday season.”
Festive Activities Galore
Oxford’s holiday festivities don’t stop with its picturesque views. Each year, the Holly Jolly Holidays event transforms the downtown area into a stunning winter wonderland with its Walk of Lights display. You can also enjoy the Oxford on Ice skating rink set up at mTrade Park, where twinkling lights sparkle against the night sky. Throughout the season, little ones can spot Santa making appearances around town, spreading joy and cheer!
If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit while doing a bit of shopping, follow the Peppermint Trail that leads to local shops filled with delightful treats, unique gifts, and festive cocktails. Ferris puts it perfectly: “From the twinkling lights around The Square to the many seasonal events that bring people together, Oxford truly shines during this time of year.”
Hattiesburg: Where Festivity Meets Community
Now, let’s shift our focus to Hattiesburg, where the strings of lights are strung high across some of the busiest streets in town. You cannot walk around without soaking in the holiday atmosphere! The excitement builds with the annual Jaycees Christmas Parade, now in its 74th year, and the Downtown Candlelit Christmas Sip and Shop, providing the perfect backdrop of Christmas joy. This event coincides with the Victorian Candlelit Christmas in the Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood, featuring enchanting carriage rides, caroling, and thousands of luminaries lighting up the streets.
The Attractions Don’t End with the Holidays
But hey, the fun doesn’t just stop during the holiday season! Hattiesburg is a treasure trove of year-round attractions. You can explore its vibrant art and music scene or marvel at the historic architecture sprinkled throughout. And for those seeking a bit of adventure, an award-winning zoo and water park awaits just over a mile from downtown. Not to forget, there’s the quirky Pocket Museum and cultural delights at Saenger Theater that hosts a plethora of events all year round.
Explore and Enjoy!
Both towns offer a unique shopping experience too! Oxford’s downtown area is dotted with cozy shops, including renowned square books, while Hattiesburg boasts its vibrant local eateries. Fancy a handcrafted gin? Check out Wonderbird Spirits or sample fresh brews at Circle and Square Brewing. With historical sites like Rowan Oak, the former home of author William Faulkner, and not to mention their lively music scene at various venues including the Lyric Theater, there’s truly something for everyone!
There you have it! Whether you’re wandering through the twinkling lights of Oxford or joining in the holiday cheer in Hattiesburg, it’s clear that both towns are the perfect getaway for anyone longing for that Hallmark holiday experience. So gather your loved ones, pack your bags, and get ready for a holiday celebration that you won’t forget!
