This year’s race – on February 27 beginning at the Mississippi State Capitol – offers a variety of distances including the 13.1 mile double-loop “full,” a half marathon and quarter note race, to name a few.

With so many in-person events impacted in the last year, Premier Event Management is taking precautions to ensure a safe Mississippi Blues Marathon on Saturday, February 27, 2021.

“We are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation and communications from the Mississippi State Health Department, The City of Jackson as well as the CDC for any and all updates.  Our number one priority is SAFETY for you our athletes, our volunteers, our sponsors and the running community.”

Runners will be required to wear a face-covering at the starting line and will be provided, along the course, another face-covering to be worn after crossing the finish line. Staging corrals will be adequately spaced, long with additional race safety measures.

This year’s race – on February 27 beginning at the Mississippi State Capitol – offers a variety of distances including the 13.1 mile double-loop “full,” a half marathon and quarter note race, to name a few.

Beyond the race itself, Jackson offers a slate of experiences participants will want to come early for – and stay long after the finish line has come down.

Friday, February 26

  • Pre-Race Expo
    Grab your packet, including your number, and other race-day essentials like gear and nutrition, and hear from live, local blues musicians. There’s limited race day packet pick-up so plan to be here.
  • Shop and dine in Fondren or LeFleur East
    A few miles away from race grounds, our city’s neighborhoods provide a different look and feel than downtown with chef-driven restaurants and boutique shopping.

    In Fondren, carb-load at Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint or Barrelhouse or go for seafood at Saltine or barbecue at The Pig and Pint. In LeFleur East, head to The District at Eastover for Fine & Dandy or Cultivation Food Hall’s Italian Fare. Nearby, at Highland Village, Mediterranean-rich Aplos or classic steakhouse-vibed Char will satisfy your taste buds.
Congratulations, finishers! (File photo from a previous year’s race)

Saturday, February 27

  • Race Day – 7 a.m.
    Arrive early for a quick warm-up and to settle into your surroundings. Listen for the National Anthem, played by local musician Patrick Harkins. On your mark, get set…
  • Post-Race
    Complimentary food and drink greet you as you cross the finish line. Stick around and enjoy: you’ve earned it!
  • Lunch anyone?
    Some runners take it easy post-race while others are insatiable and looking for their “reward” meal. We have ideas!

    Fenian’s in Belhaven offers Irish pub fare and a great selection of beers. Try the Irish curry and thank me later. If you want something lighter side, but still indulgent, check out Campbell’s Craft Donuts, also in Belhaven. Fresh-made donuts (flavors rotate daily) join street tacos and queso tots for a memorable meal.
  • Walk it off
    If you are looking for a slower-paced afternoon and some post-race recovery, head for Highland Village. Called “iconic… where timeless meets of-the-moment in an atmosphere steeped in culture and southern charm,” the center is home to local, regional and national boutiques. The state’s only Whole Foods is here as well as lululemon athletic.
  • Dinner Time
    Cap off your day with dinner at casual white tablecloth Walker’s Drive-In in Fondren or BRAVO! at Highland Village.
  • Nightcap, Mississippi Music style
    There’s always music in Jackson, especially on this weekend. Check out The Iron Horse Grill, Hal & Mal’s and Martin’s Downtown.

Hotels With Availability to be announced.

January 2021: This post is being updated as a representative itinerary of Jackson restaurants, attractions and events. As always, consult visitjackson.com for a full listing of places and activities.