Frequently Asked questions
What is Second Saturday? Second Saturday is a special effort to highlight the rich creative talents of our community against the backdrop of our historic downtown shopping district. Goals include free family activities for locals and visitors and economic boost to area merchants, vendors and community organizations.
Who is the contact for Second Saturday? This is a volunteer-led effort supported by the Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Program and Vicksburg Convention and Visitors Bureau. Specific questions not answered here can be emailed to vicksburg2ndsaturday@gmail.com.
Who can participate in Second Saturday? Musicians, demonstrating artists, dance groups, businesses seeking sponsorship opportunities, performing artists of all kinds, volunteers, food trucks and community organizations are all invited and encouraged to participate as long as they comply with all city ordinances related to their goods and services. Featured musicians requiring sound equipment or electrical support should email vicksburg2ndsaturday@gmail.com to inquire about available dates.
What are the featured times? Organized artist demonstrations, music, sidewalk sales, downtown merchant specials, and family-friendly activities are arranged between 2 and 8pm on the second Saturday of most months. Expect something different every month! Individual participants such as artists demonstrating their work do not have to participate the full six hours. If you are interested in offering demonstrations or activities, email vicksburg2ndsaturday@gmail.com.
When is setup and takedown? Tables and chairs are put in place for scheduled artists and musicians from 11am to 1pm on the second Saturday of each month. They are disassembled between 7 to 9pm. If you have your own table and chairs, are complying with city regulations, and are partnering with a local business for equipment or facility space, you can set up as early as you wish and leave at any time you prefer.
Is there a cost to participate in Second Saturday? Cost of providing activities and events is supported by generous donations of local businesses and organizations. There is no fee for individual groups, musicians or artists to present their talent or services, unless they choose to participate in the Farmers Market setup at a nominal fee (contact farmersmarket@vicksburg.org or call 601-801-3513).
Are food trucks allowed to participate? Yes, but if you require electricity, organizers need to know in advance to ensure there is enough power available to support your food truck. Contact vicksburg2ndsaturday@gmail.com to reserve your space in advance. Electricity access is available on limited basis.
How can my band or individual musicians perform? Featured musicians requiring sound equipment or electrical support should email vicksburg2ndsaturday@gmail.com to inquire about available dates. Any musician or band wanting to perform downtown can do so on public property that is not already reserved or by speaking with an individual merchant about performing inside or in front of their retail space.
Can I sell my arts and crafts at Second Saturday? Featured artists are committed to demonstrating or offering hands-on activities for attendees. If you have products you simply want to sell, please contact a downtown merchant to see if an existing retail business will feature your goods on Second Saturday or offer space for you inside their store or on their storefront sidewalk. In addition, Farmers Market coordinators welcome booths featuring handmade goods. Contact farmersmarket@vicksburg.org or call 601-801-3513 to learn about Farmers Market requirements, including their $15 booth fee.
Can Farmer’s Market vendors extend their hours and stay in place for Second Saturday? Yes. Anyone setting up a booth through the Farmers Market organization can remain in place beyond the posted 8-11am market schedule. Contact farmersmarket@vicksburg.org or call 601-801-3513 to learn about Farmers Market requirements, including their $15 booth fee.
How late do downtown merchants stay open? Each merchant determines their own hours. Many shops that normally close at 5-6pm on Saturdays are open later, but you should call an individual business to inquire about their hours on Second Saturday.
Where should we park? There should be ample parking available on the streets within walking distance of downtown; however, if street parking is all occupied, there are downtown parking garages that provide free parking all day every day.
Will there be seating provided near the stages? There may not be seating or shade in addition to existing downtown benches or shade. We recommend bringing folding chairs or a blanket for a picnic. If it is expected to be extremely hot, protect yourself with a hat or umbrella and sunscreen, and cool off inside one of your favorite downtown restaurants or shops.
Is this a rain or shine event? Yes. In the event of rain or extreme heat, music and planned art demonstrations will move inside at spaces to be designated.
