Welcome to the Newto News for April of 2026. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Jackson, Mississippi was founded in 1821 and named after Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States. It quickly became a major transportation hub due to its strategic location on the Pearl River, attracting settlers looking to take advantage of its booming economy. During the Civil War, Jackson was a crucial Confederate stronghold and was heavily targeted by Union forces. The city suffered significant damage and destruction as a result of the conflict. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Jackson experienced a period of rapid growth and industrialization, becoming known as the “City with Soul” due to its vibrant music scene and rich cultural heritage. Throughout the 20th century, Jackson played a key role in the civil rights movement, with notable figures such as Medgar Evers and Fannie Lou Hamer leading the charge for equality and social justice. Today, Jackson continues to thrive as the capital and largest city of Mississippi, boasting a diverse population, thriving arts community, and strong economy.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  • Healthcare
  • Technology
  • Hospitality
  • Education
  • Finance
  • Retail
  • Construction
  • Manufacturing
  • Government
  • Transportation

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  • Hiking
  • Skiing
  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Golfing
  • Boating
  • Wine tasting
  • Rock climbing
  • Rafting
  • Camping

3. Average low and high temperature for the month: 45°F – 75°F 4. Average precipitation for the month: 2 inches 5. Elevation: 3,000 feet 6. Average home price: $350,000 7. Average household income: $60,000 8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  • National Park
  • Historic Downtown Area
  • Botanical Garden
  • Art Museum
  • Scenic Overlook
  • Zoo
  • Local Vineyard
  • Waterfall
  • Wildlife Reserve
  • Adventure Park

The top 10 restaurants:

Walker’s Drive-In

Fondren

Walker’s Drive-In offers an upscale dining experience with an intimate atmosphere, featuring innovative American cuisine with a Southern twist, focused on locally sourced ingredients.

Parlor Market

Downtown

Parlor Market is a modern Southern restaurant, known for its farm-to-table offerings and a menu that changes seasonally, ensuring fresh and innovative dishes.

Char Restaurant

Eastover

Char Restaurant blends classic Southern hospitality with a contemporary steakhouse ambiance, spotlighting premium steaks and fresh, local seafood.

Keifer’s

Belhaven

Keifer’s is a beloved staple in Jackson, renowned for its casual setting, iconic Greek fare, delicious wraps, and homemade hummus.

CAET Seafood

Eastover

CAET Seafood offers a chic setting for seafood enthusiasts, serving up an array of fresh fish, oysters, and creative seafood dishes, along with a fine selection of wines and cocktails.

Saltine

Fondren

Saltine provides a laid-back dining experience with a focus on fresh oysters, innovative seafood dishes, and Southern hospitality, complemented by craft beers and cocktails.

Lou’s Full-Serv

Belhaven

Lou’s Full-Serv is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu that celebrates Southern culinary traditions, featuring comforting yet refined dishes.

BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar

Highland Village

BRAVO! is a lively Italian restaurant with a focus on fresh, handmade pasta, gourmet pizzas, and classic Italian entrees, accompanied by a comprehensive wine list.

Aladdin Mediterranean Grill

Fondren

Aladdin Mediterranean Grill offers a delightful array of authentic Mediterranean dishes in a vibrant setting, from kebabs and gyro plates to rich, flavorful hummus and falafel.

Hal & Mal’s

Downtown

Hal & Mal’s is a cultural hub offering a mix of Southern cuisine, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Current Events:

An Intimate Evening with Dru Hill, Keke Wyatt, and Case
Apr 23
Thu • 7:00pm

An Intimate Evening with Dru Hill, Keke Wyatt, and Case

Thalia Mara Hall

An Evening with Wilco
Apr 26
Thu • 7:30pm

An Evening with Wilco

Thalia Mara Hall

Bob Dylan: Rough And Rowdy Ways Tour
Apr 24
Thu • 8:00pm

Bob Dylan: Rough And Rowdy Ways Tour

Thalia Mara Hall

Cathead Jam - Friday Only
Jun 04
Thu • 5:00pm

Cathead Jam – Friday Only

Cathead Distillery

Cathead Jam - Weekend Pass
Jun 04
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Cathead Jam – Weekend Pass

Cathead Distillery

Cathead Jam - Saturday Only
Jun 05
Thu • 2:00pm

Cathead Jam – Saturday Only

Cathead Distillery

Riverdance 30 - The New Generation
Apr 21
Thu • 7:30pm

Riverdance 30 – The New Generation

Thalia Mara Hall

Chicago the Musical, Kinky Boots, and Riverdance 30 - The New Generati
Apr 21
Thu • 7:30pm

Chicago the Musical, Kinky Boots, and Riverdance 30 – The New Generati

Thalia Mara Hall

Jurassic Quest | Jackson Convention Center | Jackson, MS 2026
May 07
Thu • 5:00pm

Jurassic Quest | Jackson Convention Center | Jackson, MS 2026

Jackson Convention Complex