Explore Ridgeland Celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week with Community Recognition, Summer Activations & Pepsi Pops Appearance
Explore Ridgeland kicked off National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) on Sunday, May 4 and will celebrate until May 10 with a full slate of activities that honor the local tourism workforce, elevate community assets, and build excitement for what’s ahead this summer in Ridgeland.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Shanna Head
Director of Marketing & Public Relations
Explore Ridgeland
(o) 601.605.5251
shanna@exploreridgeland.com
Explore Ridgeland Celebrates Na4onal Travel and Tourism Week with Community Recognition, Summer Ac4va4ons & Pepsi Pops Appearance
On May 4, Mayor Gene McGee issues a proclamation recognizing the vital impact of travel and tourism on Ridgeland's local economy and quality of life.
NTTW emphasizes how tourism supports jobs, strengthens businesses, and brings people together. From celebrating frontline hospitality champions to spotlighting attractions and upcoming events, Explore Ridgeland is using the week to inspire both residents and visitors. In Ridgeland, the travel and tourism industry continues to be a driving force in the local economy. In fiscal year 2024, visitor spending in Ridgeland reached $114 million, supporting 1,136 jobs and generating $15.9 million in state and local taxes, equivalent to $1,431 in tax savings per Ridgeland household.
Additional highlights of the week include:
1. Monday, May 5: Travel economic impact video + spotlight on the Mississippi Craft Center
2. Tuesday, May 6: Presentation of the Hotel Hospitality Champion + local attraction feature
3. Wednesday, May 7: Presentation of the Dining Hospitality Champion + retail trail spotlight
4. Thursday, May 8: Summer preview including upcoming events, markets, and music events
5. Friday, May 9: Community outreach at Pepsi Pops—an evening of music and celebration
6. Saturday, May 10: Week-in-review shared across Explore Ridgeland's digital platforms
* "Tourism is about so much more than travel—it’s a catalyst for community connection, economic vitality, and cultural pride," said Chris Chapman, executive director of Explore Ridgeland. "National Travel and Tourism Week gives us the chance to thank the people behind the scenes—the hotel clerks, servers, guides, shop owners—who make Ridgeland not just a great place to visit, but a place people return to again and again. As we look toward summer, we're proud of where we are and excited for what's ahead."
One of the marquee events during NTTW is Pepsi Pops on Friday, May 9, at 7:30p.m. at Old Trace Park. Now in its 44th year, this beloved lakeside tradition features the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra performing familiar hits from Broadway, movies, and popular classics. Special guest Teneia Sanders brings soulful vocals to the evening, which concludes with a dazzling fireworks display over the Barnett Reservoir.
Presented by the MSO and Trustmark, Pepsi Pops invites families to enjoy music under the stars with lawn chairs, picnic baskets, and sweeping waterfront views. Gates open at 5:30p.m., and general admission is free for children 18 and under. Adult tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the gate, available at msorchestra.com.
Another seasonal highlight includes Snappy Sync, May 15-19 at the Bill Waller Craft Center, where visitors can witness the rare and magical synchronous fireflies in their natural habitat along the Natchez Trace Parkway. Educational programming, nature walks, and family-friendly experiences are part of this increasingly popular annual celebration of Ridgeland's natural wonders.
To show appreciation for local hospitality workers, Explore Ridgeland is distributing "Wild About Ridgeland" buttons throughout hotels, restaurants, and attractions as part of a broader summer visibility initiative.
Stay updated throughout the week by visiting exploreRidgeland.com and following Explore Ridgeland on social media.
For more information on National Travel and Tourism Week, visit ustravel.org/NTTW.
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About Explore Ridgeland
Explore Ridgeland promotes the best of Ridgeland, MS, from outdoor adventures and exceptional dining to luxury accommodations and world-class entertainment. For more information, visit www.exploreridgeland.com.