Where holiday shopping turns into a getaway filled with charm, flavor, and a little magic
Words by Paige Townley
Ridgeland, Mississippi, knows how to make the holidays feel like an experience instead of a checklist. Each winter, the city rolls out Wrap It in Ridgeland, a two-month celebration that pairs shopping with a reason to linger. Running November 1 through December 31, the promotion invites visitors to explore the city’s Retail Trail, stay at one of 16 participating hotels, and claim a complimentary shopping bag from the Visitors Center—perfect for carrying new finds.
Just north of Jackson, Ridgeland sits along the Natchez Trace Parkway, where outdoor trails and wide-open green space offer a natural counterpoint to the retail buzz. Cyclists and joggers head to the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail, while art enthusiasts stop at the Bill Waller Craft Center to browse work from Mississippi artisans in pottery, wood, glass, and textiles.
When it’s time to shop, you’re in good company. Renaissance at Colony Park and Northpark anchor the retail scene, while The Township at Colony Park mixes boutiques, restaurants, and walkable charm into one modern, lived-in space. Antique hunters and gift seekers will also find treasures at local favorite stops like Repeat Street and the unique shops lining Highway 51 and the Railroad District.
When it’s time to refuel, Ridgeland’s dining scene makes for an easy and welcomed break between stops. From casual seafood spots on the waterfront to chef-driven restaurants inside the shopping hubs, there’s no shortage of options to turn a shopping day into a full evening out. Hotels like SpringHill Suites Ridgeland, AC Hotel Ridgeland, and Embassy Suites offer convenience and comfort within close reach of it all.
Wrap It in Ridgeland is designed to slow down the pace of holiday prep.
Wrap It in Ridgeland is designed to slow down the pace of holiday prep. Instead of rushing from store to store, visitors can shop, eat, and explore—making time for the trails, galleries, and green spaces that round out the experience. It’s a reminder that the season can be about more than lists and lines. In Ridgeland, it’s about finding gifts, and also finding the time to enjoy them.
Whether you stay a night or two, you’ll leave with more than wrapped packages. So if you’ve ever wondered whether a holiday getaway could feel like more than just decorations and deals, Ridgeland, Mississippi, is your answer. Plan your visit now at exploreridgeland.com/wrapit.
