Pepsi Pops Returns May 8th
to Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday
Pepsi Pops Celebrates 45 Years with a Patriotic Tribute to America’s 250th
A beloved Mississippi tradition returns to the Reservoir this spring. Pepsi Pops celebrates 45 years of music, community, and fireworks. This year’s concert will take place Friday, May 8, 2026, at Old Trace Park in Ridgeland, bringing together families and music lovers for an evening under the stars along the shore of the Ross Barnett Reservoir.
Presented by Pepsi and Brown Bottling Group, Pepsi Pops has long been one of the metro area’s most anticipated outdoor events. This year’s concert will be especially meaningful as it joins the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, featuring patriotic favorites alongside popular music audiences know and love.
A Mississippi Tradition for 45 Years
For more than four decades, Pepsi Pops has been a favorite way to kick off summer in central Mississippi. Guests gather early, spread out blankets, and enjoy a relaxed evening outdoors.
Since 1981, Brown Bottling Group has proudly sponsored Pepsi Pops. As a result, the event has grown into one of the region’s most popular outdoor concerts.
With live symphonic music and a beautiful sunset backdrop, it’s easy to see why so many families return year after year.
Live Music, Patriotic Favorites, and Fireworks
The evening offers entertainment from start to finish.
Gates open at 5:30 p.m., giving guests plenty of time to settle in. First, enjoy performances by the Mississippi Youth Symphony Orchestra, featuring talented young musicians from across the state.
Next, additional pre-concert entertainment keeps the energy going. Then, the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra takes the stage at 7:30 p.m.
This year’s program celebrates the USA 250 milestone. Expect a mix of patriotic music, popular favorites, and recognizable hits.
To top it all off, the night ends with a spectacular fireworks show over the Reservoir.
Picnic on the Reservoir
One of the most beloved traditions of Pepsi Pops is the picnic atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to enjoy dinner with family and friends while listening to the music.
Prefer to grab something onsite? A variety of local food truck vendors will be serving up crowd favorites throughout the evening, including:
- Mando’s
- Street Dough
- Beach Babes Beignets
- AHA Bistro
- Small Time Hot Dogs
And of course, guests can stay refreshed with ice-cold Pepsi products available throughout the event.
Please note that glass containers, alcohol, and tents are not permitted.
Tickets and Parking
Tickets are $15 for adults in advance online and $20 at the gate.
Student tickets are $5 with a valid student ID.
For those who prefer closer access, VIP parking passes are available for $35, offering entry through the Post Road gate to the lot nearest the concert lawn.
Free parking will also be available in the lot west of Old Trace Park.
