Daily
Jackson
Friday, March 20th, 2026
Good morning, Jackson. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Mayor-backed Jackson Cares held an open house Thursday in north Jackson to tackle the stray animal crisis, outlining plans for a new shelter + spay and neuter clinic as well as updated pet ordinances while leaders stressed the need to support over 10,000 homeless animals. WLBT News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Swell-O-Phonic celebrates 28 years in Fondren as the clothing & skate store will move to a new development across the street. Owner Ron Chane said community support has shaped the shop’s future. WLBT News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The International Ballet Competition is inviting ballet artists from Mississippi to apply; application details and deadlines will be announced soon — the event aims to spotlight emerging local talent. WLBT News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Gas prices in Jackson jumped 5 cents in one day, reaching $3.84 and straining drivers’ budgets ahead of spring break; AAA officials advise planning fuel stops as experts attribute the rise to increased demand, the switch to summer blend, and global conflicts affecting oil supply + international shortages. WAPT
- ➤ Mississippians have seen nearly a $1 increase per gallon due to disruptions from the Iran war, with Sprint Mart in Flowood charging $3.49 on Thursday — the highest average in over two years — and straining commuters. Mississippi Free Press
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Mississippi State Board of Education approved an updated statewide plan to boost student success after gathering input from about 100 local stakeholders. The new Pre-K through Grade 12 Education plan will take effect on July 1. WAPT
- ➤ More than 300 children at JPS schools received new shoes today, a donation effort designed to help students in need (school officials confirmed the gift). WLBT News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A water main break in South Jackson on Mar. 19 disrupted water service and raised concerns among nearby residents. Repair crews worked to fix the pipe while officials monitored the situation. WLBT News
- ➤ Mississippi lawmakers approved House Bill 895 this week, which will keep patient cards valid for 12 months and require caregiver background checks every two years. The bill now moves to the governor’s desk for final approval — a step aimed at streamlining the state’s medical cannabis program. WAPT
- ➤ The Mississippi National Guard deployed the fourth rotation of the 890th Engineer Battalion to Washington, D.C. this week (supporting ongoing federal operations) as state leaders praised their service. WAPT
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Authorities have issued a health alert as New World screwworms—flesh-eating flies once eradicated—could threaten Mississippi livestock and pets after outbreaks were reported in Mexico and South America. Experts advise reporting suspected cases and covering open wounds when outdoors. SuperTalk Mississippi Media
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The NCAA Women’s Tournament first round will see #5 Ole Miss face #12 Gonzaga later this month; community fans are eager + expect an exciting game that could boost local pride. WLBT News
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Epic Funk Brass Band Performance
9 p.m. – 11:59 p.m. — Martin's Downtown — Ticket prices vary — Experience the high-energy sounds of Jackson's very own New Orleans style brass band.
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Jackson Indie Music Week 2026
March 22-28 — 219 S President St, Jackson, MS — Tickets on sale now — Celebrate year 11 of independent music, community, and culture in Jackson, Mississippi.
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Paul Thorn Live Performance
8:00-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Tickets available — Experience Paul Thorn's storytelling through soulful music and heartfelt lyrics.
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The Chee-Weez Concert
2-6 p.m. — Hal & Mal's — Enjoy a lively performance from The Chee-Weez with engaging music and good vibes.
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Afroman Live Performance
9 p.m. — Martin's Downtown — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique blend of humor and hip-hop with Afroman's live show.
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Gary Owen: No Hard Feelings Tour
12 AM – 11 PM — Thalia Mara Hall — Cost info not listed — Enjoy a night of sharp humor and storytelling with the comedic force, Gary Owen.
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Tantric Live Concert
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — $20.00 ($25.00 day of show) — Celebrate 25 years of Tantric's debut album with a live performance of their hits in Jackson, MS.
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Christone Kingfish Ingram Live Concert
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — $56.75 ($61.90 day of show) — Experience the future of blues with a genre-blurring performance from Kingfish.
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K-POP WARRIORS Live Show
7-8:30 p.m. — Jackson Convention Complex Center — All ages welcome — Experience a high-energy family show featuring dynamic K-Pop music and vibrant performances.
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Alva Leigh Live Performance
8-11 p.m. — Hal & Mal's — $15 — Experience the musical talents of Alva Leigh alongside Call Me Spinster and Newscast in an engaging evening of entertainment.
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