Good morning, Jackson.

Dr. Robert Smith was named as Grand Marshal for the Jackson Christmas parade today at 6 p.m. on Capitol Street after Mayor John Horhn selected the Central Mississippi Health Services CEO to lead the festive event.

Over 200 community leaders gathered today at New Horizon Church International to review a study from more than 6,500 responses showing that most college graduates are leaving Jackson for better jobs, healthcare and belonging, and they discussed linking local internships to help keep talent in the region.

Mississippi-made AI artist Solomon Ray, created by local musician Topher Townsend using ChatGPT and Suno, tops the Christian charts as Townsend says the process helps underserved artists produce quality gospel music.

Belhaven University’s Singing Christmas Tree returns for its 93rd performance Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at Belhaven Bowl Stadium — this free holiday event features over 100 student singers and updated electric lights, a modern twist on the tradition since 1933.

On Thursday, the District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi in Jackson held a naturalization ceremony where 15 people from eight countries took the oath to become U.S. citizens, joining a community of over 348 million Americans.

JXN Water shut off service to several residents with unpaid bills in a Jackson neighborhood, leaving them without water for basic needs.

Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes organized a water relief plan—allowing residents to fill containers at designated hydrants—while the company plans to restore service within days.

Gateway Rescue Mission officials report that P2P meth is spreading among Jackson’s homeless & the nonprofit will begin construction next year on a $3 million project to expand its New Life Program from 20 to 36 beds to treat addiction.

Lisa Scott transformed her life after receiving help from Hinds Behavioral Health Services over 16 years ago; now drug-free and a senior resident at Grace House, she met with staff in October to celebrate her recovery and affirm the community’s mental health support.

A former addict has rebuilt his life thanks to Hinds Behavioral Health Services in Jackson today.

The center offers treatment and support that is helping him progress in his recovery journey (personal details remain private).

Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl in Jackson

4:30-9 p.m. — Library Lounge — 25% OFF with code UGLY25 — Don your ugliest sweater and enjoy a festive night of drinks and holiday cheer in Downtown Jackson.

Liam St. John Live Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Tickets $25.30 ($30.45 day of) — Experience an evening of blues and rock with 'The Voice' contestant Liam St. John.

Chess Class at Alexander Library

4-6:30 p.m. — Margaret Walker Alexander Library — Free entry — Explore the fundamentals and strategies of chess in a friendly environment.

Santa Zoo Station

10 a.m.–1 p.m. — The Jackson Zoo — Timed tickets required — A festive holiday extravaganza filled with crafting, photos with Santa, and family fun awaits.

HEADCANNON Live Performance

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Hal & Mal's — $15 — Experience an electrifying night with HEADCANNON and friends, featuring a unique tattoo pop-up.

Cecily Wilborn Live Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — Mississippi Coliseum — Tickets available — Experience a Southern Soul party with music and dance in Jackson.

Happy Landing Live Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Ticket prices vary — Experience an energetic folk rock concert from the rising band hailing from Oxford, Mississippi.