Downtown, homegrown restaurants, and traditions make up our little-big town. We’ve got the lights, the businesses, and the adventure, but mostly we have a family. That’s what sets our little town apart from the rest. New Albany, Mississippi is certainly a unique place, but what makes us so unique?

1. Parking in the middle of downtown

It’s true. People have been doing it for years. Why park along the side of the street in front of stores when you can simply stop right across the road lines and walk in any direction you please? You can hop right out of your car and enjoy the beauty that is downtown New Albany, MS. In an instant you can get to AC's, Sweet Frogs, Tanglefoot trail, and all the downtown shops like Two Doors Down, The Bead Shack, or Obsessions.

2. Registering for marriage?

If you aren't registered at a local gift shop, you aren't really getting married. Forget the toasters and coffee makers, everyone needs some fancy china-found at your local gift shops. They do it right.

3. Homecoming traditions

Each year a beloved Homecoming court is elected at New Albany High School. We then parade the court down the streets of New Albany wearing tweed business suits along with large hats firmly on their heads (unless you have a big head like me, and you have to go for the “effortless placement atop the head and pray it stays there” look). Do yourself a favor, and don’t miss the homecoming parade.

4. The Tallahatchie Riverfest

Local businesses and shops all come out for the annual Riverfest. Great shopping, good food, live music, and old friends are what make the Riverfest a magical time. You can’t find chicken on a stick this good anywhere else, I promise.

5. Faithful Homegrown Restaurants

Zaxby's, Popeyes, and KFC all wave their fancy chicken in front of us, and we may partake for a moment. They can put as many chicken places they want in this town, and we will enjoy them. But we will forever be true to George.

6. Bible Verse Discounts

If you memorize the Bible verse of the month at Imago Dei Boutique, you get 10% off your purchase. This is a less known fact about New Albany. Imago Dei is a newer boutique in town, just trying to spread the love of our Lord. The name means “in the image of God.” I love the light they bring to the downtown strip. Learn the good Word while saving some money!

7. Quilt Square Mystery

Students and other volunteers have painted beautiful wooden quilt squares that cover New Albany. This is a project the museum has taken on in order to preserve the art of quilting. They post all of their locations so you can find the quilt square you designed along with all the others! The squares are not just there for good looks, they’re preserving sweet history!

8. One Big family

New Albany has had our fair share of tragedies. But what I love is those tragedies only call us to rally together and lift each other up. Whether it’s a battle of sickness, tragic death, or any heartbreaking experience, you have family there to hold you up in Jesus’ name. Prayer services, fundraisers, and simple meals being brought to your house are only glimpses of the hospitality that makes up this little big town.

New Albany, Mississippi isn’t just your typical little big town. Beyond the culture, renovations, additions, and atmosphere, there’s a family. The love of our Lord is shared and felt in this place. It’s not a perfect place, but it’s our home. I’m thankful to have grown up in a place full of my family, friends, memories and adventures. There’s no place quite like New Albany, Mississippi. It’s quirky, traditional, growing, lively, and unique, and I wouldn’t change a thing about it.