It's time to ad Mississippi back to our travel destination, for both business and pleasure. Katrina really put a wallop in the Mississippi economy so it's time now to support the rebuilding effort along with the local economy.

If you are like me, you may find it hard to determine just where to go in Mississippi. Unlike New Orleans in Louisiana, or Orlando in Florida, Mississippi doesn't have a marquis destination. But, this is the good news!! It will be good for a change to travel to somewhere that is not mobbed with tourists our mouse ears.

Here are a few ideas: Ocean Springs Elks Mardi Gras Parade, February Parade begins on East Beach by the site of the former Ocean Springs Yacht Club and will go through downtown Ocean Springs and finish by the Ocean Springs High School.

Elvis Presley Festival, June The Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Elvis Presley Festival

Keith Jennison The travel guy at http://www.go2-mississippi.com Mississippi travel tips and information invite you to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Elvis' Homecoming to Tupelo, Mississippi at the 8th Annual Elvis Presley Festival!

The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, October Pilots compete in "Hare & Hounds" and "The Barge Drop" as they fly

The Jimmie Rodgers Memorial Festival, May The Jimmie Rodgers Memorial Festival has become a showcase of talent for some very well known artist over the past forty nine years.

Neshoba County Fair, July Political, agricultural, and social exchanges of knowledge and ideas.

Vicksburg Riverfest, April Schedule of great events include a kayak race from Lake Providence to Vicksburg, the Alcorn Jazzfest, a block of activities for young visitors, and the chance to see everyone you know and everyone you haven't seen for a long time. And bands and music all day long.

That will get you started back to Mississippi, there is a ton of information available at the Mississippi tourism web site at http://www.state.ms.us