The catch-phrase for the Jackson Convention Complex is "Where Mississippi Meets the World." But this weekend is all about Mississippians meeting their new capital city convention complex, and all the treats the area offers to residents and visitors.
Touted as "the grandest grand opening ever," Saturday's event throws open the doors of the convention complex for a giant community festival for all ages and all interests inside those gleaming, angular walls.
"This is an opportunity for the citizens of Jackson and the metro area to see this building in action - every square inch of it," says JCC general manager Linda McCarthy.
Saturday showcases the talent and attractions in the region, from Latin, rap, rock 'n' roll, jazz and blues bands to gospel, dance, drum line, step teams, symphony and theater. There's even an America's Next Top Model search.
Performances and exhibits corral the city's draws, from arts groups and cool bands to museums, restaurants, accommodations and more.
"We've got a great story to tell ... It's almost like it's in celebration of our City With Soul theme. That's part of the theme of this event," McCarthy says.
By spotlighting myriad attractions, the daylong party can also introduce and spread the word to a wide and diverse audience.
"I hope it brings attention to all Jackson has to offer," says Francine Thomas Reynolds, artistic director for New Stage Theatre, which puts its touring Lilly and the Purple Plastic Purse on the stage at 12:10 p.m. Saturday.
Her hope, too, is that possible future bookings will notice the lineup and say, "There's a lot we can do during a convention," including professional theater.
With good weather and good buzz about Saturday's celebration, "I'd be happy with 20,000 people," McCarthy says, "and that's in and out throughout the whole day."
Performances at half-hour intervals, food concessions, grand opening specials and other amenities work well for both come-and-go and stay-and-play traffic.
In the exhibit hall, inflatable bounce houses, a Gyroscope, rock wall, petting zoo, face painting and more will keep youngsters entertained.
"Where else can you go to see this kind of entertainment and this kind of music, and interact with all our attractions, all under one roof, for free? And to boot, you get to see a brand spanking new 330,000-square-foot convention center," says McCarthy.
"I think people are just going to walk in and just have a wow factor. Because I walk in there every day and have the same reaction."
