A Night to Remember at Pepsi Pops 2026
Pepsi Pops 2026 was a spectacular celebration of music, community, and patriotism as hundreds gathered at Old Trace Park to honor America’s 250th birthday alongside one of Mississippi’s most beloved traditions.
This year’s event was especially memorable not only for the incredible performances and fireworks, but also for the teamwork behind the scenes that made it all possible.
The Brown Bottling Group team came together early Friday morning and worked tirelessly throughout the day to prepare the grounds, organize event logistics, and get everything ready for guests in record time. From setup crews to volunteers and support staff, it truly took the entire Brown team working together to bring Pepsi Pops 2026 to life. Without their hard work and dedication, Pepsi Pops simply would not happen each year.
One of the most talked-about parts of the evening was the weather. Pepsi Pops 2026 turned out to be one of the coolest Pepsi Pops in recent memory, with steady winds creating a perfect spring evening along the Reservoir. While the winds made it impossible to safely raise the iconic 20-foot inflatable Pepsi bottle this year, guests still enjoyed an unforgettable night filled with music, family fun, patriotic celebration, and a spectacular fireworks finale over the water.
For 45 years, Pepsi Pops has brought families and friends together to celebrate the start of summer, and this year was no exception. From picnic blankets spread across the lawn to the sounds of patriotic favorites filling the air, the evening once again showcased the spirit of community that makes Pepsi Pops so special.
We would also like to extend a special thank you to our incredible food vendors — AHA Donut Bistro, Beach Babes Beignets, Street Dough, and Small Time Hot Dogs — for helping make the evening even more enjoyable for guests throughout the night.
Thank you as well to all of our sponsors, community partners, volunteers, and supporters who continue to help make Pepsi Pops a success year after year. Most of all, we want to thank the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra for another unforgettable performance and for continuing to bring this cherished tradition to life for families across Mississippi.
Brown Bottling Group and Pepsi are proud to continue supporting this treasured Mississippi tradition and thank everyone who attended and helped make Pepsi Pops 2026 such a memorable success.
We look forward to seeing you again next year!
Behind the Scenes: Setting Up Pepsi Pops 2026
Take a look behind the scenes as the Brown Bottling Group team worked together to prepare for one of Mississippi’s favorite traditions.
Pepsi Pops 2026 Event Highlights
Relive some of our favorite moments from this year’s celebration at the Reservoir. Photo credit: Event photography provided courtesy of Explore Ridgeland.
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 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:
- 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.
