2026 Dixie National Guide Book (PDF)$
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Dixie National Parade

2026 Dixie National Parade

February 14, 2026

Dixie National Parade Application
2026 Dixie National Info Packet & Parade Route (PDF)

As part of the annual Dixie National Livestock Show & Rodeo, the Dixie National Parade is a time-honored tradition that symbolically kicks off rodeo competitions and features an array of tractor and car clubs, rodeo and other titled queens, decorative floats, marching bands and the famous Dixie National Wagon Train.

The upcoming 2026 Dixie National Parade will follow a mile-long route through downtown Jackson starting at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 14th, and ending around 11:30 a.m. to 12 noon. In honor of America250, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, this year’s parade theme is ‘For Love of Country.’ So, be sure to show off your creativity and all-American spirit by decking out in Red, White & Blue and all things USA!

The Dixie National Parade Committee is made up of MDAC employees, under the leadership of Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson. For more info, contact:

  • Hannah East, MDAC Communications Director, at 601-359-1179
  • Davis Edwards, MDAC Outreach Coordinator of Produce Safety, at 601-359-1104
  • Katie Sansing, MDAC Marketing Program Specialist, at 601-359-1140

Parade Rules:

  • All livestock MUST be well groomed.
  • All horses and mules MUST have a NEGATIVE Coggins test taken within 12 months of the parade date and health certificates MUST accompany the animal to the parade.
  • All other livestock MUST be accompanied by health certificates to the parade.
  • All motor vehicles MUST have mufflers.
  • At least ONE representative from each participating parade entry MUST attend the Awards Ceremony following the parade.

The City of Jackson also mandates the following:

  • All floats must carry a fire extinguisher.
  • Grills, open flames, glass containers & portable toilets are prohibited along parade route.
  • Self-propelled and motorized vehicles, including ATVs & golf-carts, are also prohibited along the parade route.
  • The carrying of firearms by any parade participant or attendee is prohibited.

Parade Awards Ceremony:

The Dixie National Parade Awards Ceremony will follow the conclusion of the parade. The ceremony will be held inside the Mississippi Farmers Market, located on the Fairgrounds near the parade starting line, at approximately 12:30 p.m. Winners will be chosen by an appointed panel of local ‘celebrity’ judges and will be presented with an award and have their photo taken. Winners include 1st and 2nd place in the following categories:

  • Best Marching Group
  • Best Motorized Club
  • Best Float
  • Best Riding Club
  • The Commissioner’s Award will also be awarded to the best overall individual or group from the entire parade line-up.

Thank you for helping make the annual Dixie National Parade a cherished tradition for all Mississippians!

About the Fairgrounds

The Mississippi Fairgrounds Complex covers over 105 acres and hosts more than 700 events per year. With various facilities for exhibitions, trade and consumer shows, you will find all the elements to make a truly successful event, along with Mississippi’s tradition of hospitality. The complex is an integral part of beautiful downtown Jackson, where the charm of the old and new South blends to form a modern city with a wealth of activities and cultural attractions. The Fairgrounds Complex is truly one of the South’s most inviting locations for practically any attraction or event.

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Fairgrounds Upcoming Events
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Coliseum

This modern facility is an all-season arena with large capacity seating. The seating arrangement is one of its most versatile features where a crowd of 6,500 can view a rodeo, monster truck show or ice show. Up to 3,500 temporary seats are available for concerts.

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Coliseum

This modern facility is an all-season arena with large capacity seating. The seating arrangement is one of its most versatile features where a crowd of 6,500 can view a rodeo, monster truck show or ice show. Up to 3,500 temporary seats are available for concerts.

More Details
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Trade Mart

The Mississippi Trade Mart has a size of 110,000 sf. There is 63,000 sf. of column-free space that can be divided into three trade halls. The three trade halls can be configured to provide a seamless connection to the Coliseum’s 26,000 sf. arena floor, allowing for larger trade shows and events than possible in the current facility. There is also 2,500 sf. commercial kitchen with a service corridor and a lobby that features two cafes as well as a reception area for smaller events.

https://www.dixienational.org/wp-content/uploads/Trade-Mart-inside-300x171.jpg

Trade Mart

The Mississippi Trade Mart has a size of 110,000 sf. There is 63,000 sf. of column-free space that can be divided into three trade halls. The three trade halls can be configured to provide a seamless connection to the Coliseum’s 26,000 sf. arena floor, allowing for larger trade shows and events than possible in the current facility. There is also 2,500 sf. commercial kitchen with a service corridor and a lobby that features two cafes as well as a reception area for smaller events.

More Details
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Equine Center

The Equine Center is completely temperature controlled. The arena dirt floor is 260′ x 120′. There are 2,500 chair back seats and the facility is equipped with sound system and scoreboard. Stalls, pens, and exercise area are adjacent to the Equine Center.

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Equine Center

The Equine Center is completely temperature controlled. The arena dirt floor is 260′ x 120′. There are 2,500 chair back seats and the facility is equipped with sound system and scoreboard. Stalls, pens, and exercise area are adjacent to the Equine Center.

More Details
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Livestock Facilities

The Livestock Facilities are made up of multiple barns for small and large animal events. The facilities host a livestock Judging Arena, a Sales Arena, and Show Barns. Also, available in the barns is an indoor and outdoor wash rack, dairy parlor, and promoter office. This building is used for various horse shows, livestock competitions, and sales of all types.

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Livestock Facilities

The Livestock Facilities are made up of multiple barns for small and large animal events. The facilities host a livestock Judging Arena, a Sales Arena, and Show Barns. Also, available in the barns is an indoor and outdoor wash rack, dairy parlor, and promoter office. This building is used for various horse shows, livestock competitions, and sales of all types.

More Details

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