Lincoln Civic Center Launches Arts and Crafts Showcase for 2026

Wesson News

A major arts and crafts expo featuring name artisans from throughout the Southeast will debut on May 2 and 3 at Lincoln Civic Center.

“This expo will bring together the recognized pros,” says Lincoln Civic Center Director Chaston Bullock.  “The exhibitors must formally apply to participate.  They will be thoroughly vetted, and their crafts will be authenticity screened.  This won’t be a show of amateur hobbyists no matter how good they are.”

Among the expected 30 to 35 exhibitors will be Randy Castan, known for his forged and fired knives; potter Janet Smith and Larry Cotton, who makes hummingbird houses and feeders.  In addition to displaying their products, the exhibitors will present special shows about them and their crafting techniques.

The Arts and Crafts Expo is among an array of shows and events the Lincoln Civic Center and Brookhaven/Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce (BLCCC) are producing and promoting in the area during 2026.

This month, BLCCC kicked off its program year once again by giving area residents a taste of a New Orleans style Mardi Gras festival.  On Saturday, February 7, the Whitworth Avenue area near the main stage by the log cabin in Brookhaven was the site of its annual family-oriented Downtown Jazzed Up from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. with live music, food vendors and jumper inflatables for kids.  Downtown Brookhaven restaurants also served specials throughout the day.

Upcoming events are:

February 21.  Krew of Ceres annual Brookhaven Charity Ball at Lincoln Civic Center, a benefit for area service organizations.  The court is presented at the ball, and the king and queen are crowned. Tickets can be purchased from any Krewe of Ceres member. Call 601-823-9064 for more information.

February 26 – March 2.  The Classic Kids Consignment Store, kids clothes and furniture on sale at Lincoln Civic Center.

March 7.  Go Into Town  Car Show produced by area truck and auto parts and accessories suppliers and promoted by BLCCC Tourism Council.  The show featured 350 vehicle last year.

March 16-May 31.  Diamond Youth Baseball competition at Lincoln Civic Center ballpark.

March 23-26.  Wood Magic produced by David Livingston at Lincoln Civic Center explores the logging industry.  Oriented to school students.

March 30-April 4.  Bunny Hop, an annual Easter-themed shopping event in downtown Brookhaven featuring more than 20 participating retailers, prize drawings, and special promotions.  Organized by BLCCC.

April (date to be determined).  Annual BLCC breakfast with area lawmakers following Mississippi State Legislature 2026 session discuss actions and answer questions.

June 12 & 13.  Tri State Rodeo Association Shelby Bearden Ole Brook Rodeo attracts participants from throughout the nation who compete for cash prizes and to move on to vie for championships in varied categories worldwide.

June 25.  Girls Night Out.  This BLCCC signature event is the perfect way for the savvy or social shopper to experience the best of retail and restaurants in Brookhaven.

June 26 & 27.  Beautifully Broken Ministries conducts a women’s religious conference at Lincoln Civic Center.

July 4.  A spectacular 30-minute fireworks display sponsored by area lawmakers celebrates the 250^th birthday of the USA starts at 9 p.m. on the grounds at Lincoln Civic Center.   Food will be available from vendors.  Music accompanies the display on Super Talk Radio.

August 21-23. The Southwest Mississippi Wildlife Expo, a family-oriented outdoor event held at Lincoln Civic Center features hunting/fishing vendors, wildlife exhibits and conservation education. It serves as a regional showcase for outdoor gear, with live demonstrations, competitions (i.e., turkey calling), and celebrity guests.  

October 3.  The Ole Brook Festival, a BLCCC event held in downtown Brookhaven, features more than 100 arts, crafts and food vendors. A tradition since 1974, it offers live music, a classic car show and a kids' zone. 

December 3.  Brookhaven Christmas parade sponsored by BLCCC.

During the spring, summer and fall, BLCCC also sponsors concert series featuring area bands and entertainers, dates to be determined.

            For more information about BLCCC events and promotions, go to visitbrookhavenms.com on the web.  Visit www.lincolnciviccenter.com or call 601-823-9064 for information about Lincoln Civic Center events.