Read our blog for more in-depth views of the unique places, history, things to do, and events that are happening in and around the city of Canton, Mississippi!
The idea started as a day trip. That’s how these things usually go. You hear about an event, circle it on the calendar, tell yourself you’ll drive over, walk around for a few hours, maybe pick up something small, and head home before dinner. It’s a plan that feels easy and low-commitment.
But Canton, Mississippi, has a way of changing plans.
Some traditions only get better with time, and after 61 years, the Canton Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show is as alive as ever. This May 14th, we're not just celebrating another year. We're going back to our roots.
When the Canton Flea Market began six decades ago, it was beautifully simple: artists would hang their work on the fence around the Madison County Courthouse, and people would stroll along, picking out the pieces that spoke to them. No frills, just art, people and a shared love of handmade things. That spirit never left. And this year, for our 61st anniversary, we're bringing it back in a big way.
Canton is partnering with the Mississippi Artist Guild to make this year's show a true celebration of living, breathing Mississippi art. The market will kick off with a plein air painting event, artists working outdoors, capturing Canton as it is right now, in real time all throughout the market. There's something magical about watching art being made in the very place that inspired it. There will also be an art show inside the Canton Welcome Center. Making art come alive, right here in Canton.
More than 1,100 artisans and craftspeople from across the country bring their finest handmade work to Canton's streets and courthouse grounds, pottery, jewelry, fine art, one-of-a-kind gifts and so much more. It's not just a shopping event. It's a celebration of craft, community and the kind of Southern tradition that draws visitors back year after year.
The show runs from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and trust us, you'll want the whole day. Browse the Courthouse grounds and Union and Center Streets, then wander over to the church properties on Peace Street, the Old Jail Museum behind City Hall and exhibits stretching along East Fulton Street. And while you're here, Canton's local merchants and restaurants are ready to welcome you, too.
The Canton Flea Market has earned its reputation: recognized as a Top Twenty Event in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society, named Outstanding Promotional Event in the State of Mississippi, celebrated as Best of the Best by Mississippi Magazine, and listed among the Top 100 Events by the American Bus Association. This is the real deal.
So go ahead, put May 14th on your calendar, call your people and start planning your visit. Canton is ready for you. Listen to the Live @ 9 segment on more about the market.
For more information, contact the Canton Tourism Office at (601) 859-1307 or (800) 844-3369, or email fleamarket@cantontourism.com.
Natural beauty is central to the appeal of Mississippi’s small towns, with the Mississippi River shaping many communities and signature magnolia trees lining countless streets. In Natchez, that beauty meets history along the riverfront, where old landmarks and grand homes give the town a timeless appeal. Ocean Springs brings a different kind of scenery, pairing its creative downtown with the natural calm of Davis Bayou and the Gulf Islands National Seashore. These 10 towns are some of the prettiest in Mississippi and show off the state’s charm from every angle.
Canton’s commitment to preserving its civil rights history is being recognized at the state level. Last month, Visit Mississippi and the Mississippi Humanities Council unveiled a new Mississippi Freedom Trail marker at the Canton Freedom House. The unveiling was a significant moment for the community, marking a permanent, public recognition of the courage that defined Canton’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. Today, the Freedom House is the last surviving CORE Freedom House in Mississippi, and the home features photographs, articles, and memorabilia that bring that history to life.
The Mississippi Freedom Trail is a statewide initiative featuring more than 40 markers commemorating the individuals, locations, and events that shaped the Civil Rights Movement across Mississippi. For Canton, having a place on the trail is a confirmation that what happened here matters and that the people who played a part deserve to be remembered.
Canton Tourism has also received an Award of Merit from the Mississippi Historical Society. Presented annually to individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to preserving Mississippi history, this year’s committee voted to recognize Canton Tourism for its efforts in preserving and sharing Canton’s significant place in the Civil Rights Movement.
Canton has always had a story worth telling: one of resilience, courage, and community. This recognition is a testament to everyone who has worked to ensure that Canton’s Civil Rights story is never forgotten.
Want to experience this history for yourself?
Visit the Canton Freedom House Civil Rights and Multicultural Museum and see firsthand the place where ordinary people did extraordinary things. The museum’s collection of photographs, articles, and memorabilia makes the history feel personal in a way no textbook ever could. Guided tours are available by appointment, and it’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you leave.
Be sure to check out our previous blog about Billy Joe Welch and more about the history of the Freedom House and CORE’s work in Canton. The more you know about the people behind this story, the more meaningful a visit to the Freedom House becomes. Canton’s civil rights history isn’t a single chapter; it’s an entire library, and we’re proud to tell it.
