A JACKSON TRADITION FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2026 | 12:00PM
SAVE THE DATE:
THE THEME:
COMING SOON!
THE GRAND MARSHAL:
COMING SOON!
the week’s EVENTS
RUN THE RAINBOW
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MARCH 21, 2026
6:30 AM
Hal & Mal’s -
Register to “Run the Rainbow” on Saturday, March 21, 2026 to support Children’s of Mississippi – the state’s only children’s hospital. Run the Rainbow will feature a 5K route beginning and ending at Hal & Mal’s in downtown Jackson, and the 2026 event will also offer 10K, half marathon, full marathon, and 50K routes through downtown Jackson, Belhaven, Eastover, and the University of Mississippi Medical Center campus where you can see the Kathy and Joe Sanderson Tower at Children’s of Mississippi!
The race begins and ends at Hal & Mal’s. Registration includes race swag, a ticket to the Hal’s St. Paddy’s Afterparty, and the opportunity to support a vital cause, as all proceeds benefit Children’s of Mississippi whose mission is to provide exceptional care to every child.
the stomp
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MARCH 27, 2026
4:00 PM - 7:15 PM
Begins at Cathead Distillery, Ends at Hal & Mal's -
On Saturday we march, but on Friday, we STOMP!
The Stomp, a long-standing St. Paddy's tradition, gets us all in the spirit for parade weekend! Enjoy food, drinks, and music at Cathead Distillery before stomping your way to Hal & Mal's.
The parade
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MARCH 28, 2026
Begins at Court St. in front of Cathead
12:00 PM -
Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade is a one-of-a-kind celebration filled with laughter, creativity, and community spirit. Often called a “green Mardi Gras,” this lively event honors the legacy of Hal White and celebrates the heart of Mississippi with a sense of humor and place. Starting and ending at the iconic Hal & Mal’s, the parade is a joyous spectacle featuring outrageous floats, colorful costumes, and plenty of fun for all ages. It’s also a day to support great causes, like Children’s of Mississippi, and to revel in the rebirth and resilience of downtown Jackson.
Children’s parade
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Parade Day | MARCH 28, 2026
Smith Park
Registration starts at 9 AM
Rolls at 11 AM -
Kids take center stage at Hal’s St. Paddy’s Children’s Parade, rolling at 11:00 AM! Little ones are invited to dress up in Irish or themed costumes and join the fun on West Street. Registration is easy—stop by the MARL tent on the Thalia Mara Hall lawn any time prior to the 11 AM start time. Families can also enjoy a morning of rides, games, activities, and tasty treats starting at 9:00 AM. Hosted by Kayla Thompson of WJTV, this family-friendly event is packed with excitement and creativity, all happening in the heart of downtown Jackson.
Don’t miss the perfect spot on West Street to catch the big parade later in the day!
pet parade
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Parade Day | MARCH 28, 2026
Smith Park
Registration starts at 9 AM
Rolls at 10 AM -
Get ready for wagging tails and adorable costumes at the MARL Pet Parade, rolling at 10:00 AM! Dress your pets in their best Irish or creative-themed attire and strut your stuff on West Street for a chance to win trophies for Originality, Creativity, Performance, and Crowd Favorite. The $5 registration fee is waived this year, but donations to Mississippi Animal Rescue League (MARL) are welcome.
Arrive early to enjoy amusement rides, games, as well as delicious food and drinks starting at 9:00 AM. Stick around for the big parade later in the day.
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Parade Day | MARCH 28, 2026
1:00 PM Gates Open
3:00 PM Music Begins
Hal & Mal’s -
The Hal’s St. Paddy Parade doesn’t end when the last float passes by—it’s just the beginning! Join us for the official Afterparty, where the music gets louder, the dancing kicks off, and the good vibes flow well into the night. Whether you're looking to keep the party spirit alive or wind down with friends, the Afterparty is the perfect way to make your Hal’s St. Paddy experience unforgettable. Let’s raise a glass and keep the celebration going!
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