It used to be a reason for Moss Point residents to pack up a few lawn chairs, a picnic lunch and head on down
to the river. And yet, over the last three decades, the annual River Jamboree in downtown Moss Point has turned into a family-oriented festival with a myriad of attractions. Spread along the south bank of the Escatawpa River, this year’s Jamboree will take place from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. The day’s events will include performances from local entertainers, including coastal choirs, a hip-hop dance team and the Batesville performing-arts troupe RISQUE Business. “We want to make sure the history of this event is maintained,” Moss Point Parks and Recreation Superintendent Donna Joseph said. Her department oversees the festival. “Its intent was to provide something family oriented that we all could come out and enjoy as community members.” The Jamboree will swell with children’s activities in the Kid’s Zone, according to Joseph. Face painting, a clown show, puppets and a giant Space Walk inflatable playground will be available throughout the day. Also, horse rides will be featured, as well as appearances from the Chick-Fil-A cow and the Piggly Wiggly pig. “Our Kid’s Zone is always a big attraction,” Joseph said. “Someway, somehow, wherever their parents are driving, the kids manage to see the fun from far away and get their them to stop (at the Jamboree).”
A community health fair will be installed at the Jamboree, offering free massages and information booths from 30 different agencies and organizations promoting awareness and good health.