Going Green

When we moved down south we were told to expect two big celebrations: Mardi Gras in New Orleans and St. Patrick’s day in Jackson. Mardi Gras in New Orleans made sense to us as a part of the cultural heritage of Louisiana; but St. Patrick’s day in Jackson, MS? We were both surprised to learn that Jackson celebrated with such vehemence its Irish roots. We returned to Jackson from spring break the day before the St. Patrick’s day parade took place and eagerly joined fellow Mississippians on Saturday afternoon lining the streets of the downtown to await the parade.

All the way up in Alaska, Rose had heard of the Sweet Potato Queens: legendary (and at times scantily clad) figures meant to be the crowning elements of the parade. A book about the Sweet Potato Queens describing the bouffant, red hair; glittery false eyelashes and modern day hot pants is known all throughout America and we both eagerly anticipated the sight of such cultural icons. Unfortunately, the Sweet Potato Queens did not appear at the St. Patrick’s Day parade. We learned later that they had been given their own special parade, to be held this Saturday in Fondren, as they were no longer deemed “family friendly.”

Despite missing the Sweet Potato Queens, we were both mightily impressed with the parade and felt that we saw more of the Jackson population turn out during those few hours of the afternoon than in all of our time in Mississippi so far. The St. Patrick’s parade in Jackson is rumored to be one of the largest in the country and the enthusiasm of the crowd decked out in green clothing and glitter beads, as well as the floats on the street, upheld their reputation.

As we walked back from the parade we both remarked how different the downtown looked with all the people walking about- it seemed alive and urban! We noticed how beautiful the architecture of the buildings and churches were; and that the tree lined streets created a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Every other time we have walked around the downtown of Jackson, it has been empty to the point of eeriness; the difference the crowd gave to the atmosphere of the area was incredible and we felt we were glimpsing downtown Jackson as it had the potential to be.

As we walked along, we asked ourselves what the downtown would look like is there were more local cafes, restaurants and shops? We envisioned outdoor patios where people could sit outside with their food and drinks and talk. There is a small park off of ---, called Smith Park, with a fountain running through it and an amazing stage area where musicians or theater groups could perform. Jackson’s downtown has serious potential, but until the time and money can be sunk into creating the necessary business to gentrify the area, it will remain a ghost of a downtown.

The turnout for the St. Patrick’s parade showed us that Jackson has the spirit and the numbers to create a truly vibrant atmosphere, so why not keep that energy alive year round? Support the efforts businesses are making to develop Jackson’s downtown and midtown areas, such as the F Jones Corner Bar and the Underground 119; as well as other projects aiming to bring the arts to Jackson such as the Figment Project.