Ridgeland Pecan Festival Wins Statewide Award
BILOXI, MS – The Mississippi Municipal League (MML) honored the 2026 Municipal Excellence Awards Winners at the 95th Annual MML Conference Award Luncheon held in Biloxi, Mississippi at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
The Excellence Awards program, which began in 1993, recognizes cities that utilize innovative problem solving, excellence in management, citizen participation and community partnerships to provide increased services and a better quality of life for residents. The competition is divided into two population categories: under 10,000 and over 10,000. Within each population category, cities can vie for awards in City Spirit, Community Health, Economic Development & Infrastructure, Public Safety and Youth in Action. Judges also select one application as the Best Overall.
Communities from across Mississippi were recognized for innovative projects that strengthened public safety, expanded recreational opportunities, supported workforce development, improved infrastructure, promoted healthy living and empowered youth to become active community leaders.
City Spirit Over 10,000
City of Ridgeland
“Inaugural Ridgeland Pecan Festival”
The inaugural Ridgeland Pecan Festival welcomed nearly 2,000 residents and visitors to Freedom Ridge Park for a day of community, heritage, and family fun. Guests enjoyed live music, artisan booths, craftsmen demonstrations, a farmers’ market, food trucks, children’s activities, and a pecan dessert showcase.
Inspired by the city’s 125th Anniversary and the designation of the pecan as Ridgeland’s City Tree, the festival was created to honor the community’s agricultural roots while bringing people together in a meaningful way. From artisans to old-time musicians, community organizations, and dedicated volunteers, the festival showcased the people whose talents and traditions help to make Ridgeland unique.
Festival Chair Kim Cooper said, “This event was created to honor Ridgeland’s history while providing old-fashioned family fun in the park. Seeing so many families, friends, and visitors come together to celebrate our community made the day truly special. I’m excited to announce that planning is underway for the second annual festival, which will be held on October 10, 2026, at Freedom Ridge Park.”
Mayor Gene McGee said, “the festival captured the heart of Ridgeland, a community that values its history, its people, and its future.” With beautiful weather, enthusiastic participation, and overwhelming community support, the first-year event exceeded expectations. The Ridgeland Pecan Festival has planted seeds for a new community tradition that will continue to grow for years to come.
Inaugural Ridgeland Pecan Festival Planning Committee (2025): Kim Cooper (Chair), Jane McGee, John Sidney North, Nancy Batson, Lisa Walters, Matt Dodd, Ben McDonald, Karen McKie, Betsy Ross, Dr. Catherine Sledge, Carly Brandon, Jim Woodrick, Jan Richardson, Matthew Magee, Amelia Dalton, Crystal Pham, and Krystal Watson
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