The Tallahatchie Riverfest is an annual celebration held in New Albany, Mississippi. This lively festival captures the essence of the region, bringing together locals and visitors alike. This event is FREE to the community and visitors featuring a variety of activities, including outdoor concerts, arts and crafts, food vendors, and family-friendly fun. The Tallahatchie Riverfest is organized by the New Albany Main Street Association. This year’s RiverFest aims to honor the region’s heritage while embracing new activities. It’s a chance to create lasting memories and celebrate the community spirit along the Tallahatchie River.
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CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS
Tallahatchie Riverfest would not be possible without the generosity of our Contributing Sponsors. Their support plays an important role in the success of this community event, helping bring the fun, music, and spirit of Riverfest to life each year. Because of their partnership, Riverfest continues to be a celebration enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Please contact the New Albany Main Street office at 662-534-3438 or email visitnewalbany@gmail.com for more information and sponsorship details.
The Riverfest Stage is a central feature of the festival. It is situated across Bankhead Street, allowing spectators to enjoy evening concerts while sitting along the street.
RiverFest aims to cater to diverse musical tastes. While gospel and country music have been part of past festivals, there’s often a blend of other genres as well. Whether you’re into rock, blues, folk, or something else, you’re likely to find something enjoyable.
The festival frequently showcases local musicians and bands, providing an excellent opportunity to discover talented artists from the Tallahatchie River region. Additionally, a special headliner is featured to close the show.
Paul Thorn is a nationally acclaimed singer-songwriter from Tupelo, Mississippi, whose unique blend of Southern rock, blues, Americana, and country has earned him a loyal following across the country. Known for his authentic storytelling and dynamic live performances, Thorn brings the heart and soul of Mississippi music to the Tallahatchie RiverFest River Stage.
Over a career spanning more than three decades, Thorn has built a reputation as a gifted songwriter and captivating performer, drawing inspiration from his Mississippi roots and a life filled with unforgettable experiences. His songs mix humor, honesty, faith, struggle, and everyday life into stories that connect with audiences from all walks of life.
Thorn has toured extensively across the country, sharing stages with some of music’s most respected artists while developing a sound and style that are unmistakably his own. A true Mississippi original, Paul Thorn is a perfect fit for RiverFest 2026 and this year’s theme, “Soul, Grit & Guitars.”
Bobby Rush is a three-time Grammy Award-winning blues legend whose career spans more than seven decades. Renowned for his electrifying live performances and signature blend of blues, soul, and funk, Rush remains one of the most influential ambassadors of Mississippi music.
In 2026, his remarkable life and legacy are being celebrated in King of the Chitlin' Circuit, a new original documentary from Mississippi Public Broadcasting, offering an intimate look at the man behind the music and his extraordinary journey through American blues.
Shameless All-Star Country Band
A Tallahatchie RiverFest favorite, the Shameless All-Star Country Band returns to the River Stage for 2026!
Known for high-energy performances, great musicianship, and a crowd-pleasing mix of country favorites, Shameless knows how to get a RiverFest crowd on its feet. Their live shows bring together the sounds of classic and modern country with plenty of Southern personality and an unmistakable good-time atmosphere.
We’re excited to welcome Shameless back to downtown New Albany as part of this year’s “Soul, Grit & Guitars” River Stage lineup.
Anissa Hampton
Mississippi singer-songwriter Anissa Hampton brings a soulful voice and heartfelt style to the Tallahatchie RiverFest River Stage. Blending elements of country, Southern rock, and Americana, Anissa delivers a sound rooted in authentic storytelling and a genuine love for performing.
Her strong vocals and engaging stage presence make her a standout addition to this year’s “Soul, Grit & Guitars” lineup. RiverFest is excited to welcome Anissa Hampton to downtown New Albany for an evening celebrating great Mississippi music.
Riverfest Marketplace
The Marketplace features artists, craftsmen, writers, and makers from across the Tallahatchie River region and beyond. Visitors can explore a wide variety of handcrafted goods, original artwork, specialty products, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.
Marketplace vendors are located throughout Historic Downtown New Albany within the festival footprint, creating a vibrant shopping experience at the heart of Tallahatchie Riverfest. As you stroll through downtown, you'll discover talented artisans, unique local vendors, delicious food, live entertainment, and the welcoming atmosphere that makes Riverfest a favorite annual tradition. Be sure to explore every corner of the marketplace—it's a true celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and community.
Delightful Eateries
When it comes to the food trucks at the Tallahatchie RiverFest in New Albany, Mississippi, you can expect a delightful variety of cuisine. From Southern Comfort Food, Barbecue, Sweet Treats just to name a few. Remember that food truck offerings can vary from year to year, so keep an eye out for any new and exciting additions. Whether you’re craving comfort food, exotic flavors, or something in between, the Tallahatchie RiverFest food trucks have something for everyone!
Rascal’s Hangout Kid Zone
Get ready for big-time fun at Rascal’s Hangout Kid Zone, presented by MaxxSouth Broadband!
Located right along the river at Tallahatchie Riverfest, the Kid Zone is packed with family-friendly activities for our youngest festival-goers. Kids can spend the day jumping, climbing, bouncing, and playing on inflatables and obstacle courses, then cool off and have some fun at the foam party.
Play All Day for Just $10!
A $10 wristband gives kids unlimited access to the inflatables, bounce houses, obstacle courses, and foam party throughout the day.
Families can also enjoy additional activities throughout the Kid Zone, including petting zoo experiences, horse rides, face painting, and more. Please note that some additional activities are provided by separate vendors and may have an additional cost.
We are excited to welcome MaxxSouth Broadband as the presenting sponsor of Rascal’s Hangout Kid Zone for Tallahatchie Riverfest 2026. Their support helps make this fun-filled area possible for families visiting the festival.
Bring the kids, grab a wristband, and spend the day playing down by the river!
Festival Map
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Road Closures
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Forms & Shop
Riverfest Shop
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