Vicksburg 200 Committee invites ideas for bicentennial activities, announces logo contest

Mayor George Flaggs and members of the Vicksburg 200 Committee today announced initial plans for the commemoration of the city’s incorporation on January 29, 1825. The Vicksburg bicentennial planning team includes representatives of city government as well as members of the business community, tourism industry and civic organizations. Their goal is to engage residents in activities that will educate and entertain the public and attract visitors to one of the most historically rich and diverse cultures in the region.

Members of the Vicksburg 200 Committee include:

•  Anne Elizabeth Buys, Chamber of Commerce staff and committee organizer
•  Walter Osborne, Vicksburg administration
•  Pablo Diaz, Chamber of Commerce and EDF
•  Laura Beth Strickland, Visit Vicksburg
•  Erin Southard, Vicksburg Convention Center
•  Kim Hopkins, Vicksburg Main Street
•  Bess Averett, Friends of Vicksburg
•  Linda Fondren, founder of Catfish Row Museum
•  Kelle Barfield, owner of Lorelei Books

At a news conference announcing the committee’s launch, representatives described examples of activities to be planned leading up to and throughout 2025. The group intends to work with area teachers to develop educational opportunities that highlight Vicksburg’s rich history and raise awareness of the city’s diverse background. They will create a schedule of art, performance and culinary events to entertain residents and visitors while spotlighting the tremendous talent found in Vicksburg. The committee also hopes to inspire civic projects by community groups, churches and youth groups that will improve Vicksburg for locals and guests. Anyone wanting to contribute ideas or volunteer to organize activities for the bicentennial commemoration can send an email to Vicksburg200@gmail.com.

The Vicksburg 200 Committee announced its first opportunity for community involvement in the design of the commemoration logo. Artists wanting to submit camera-ready graphic designs that are appropriate for printed materials, signage and wearing apparel can go to Vicksburg.org or click on the following QR code to download a design submission form.

The logo must include the word Vicksburg, the word Mississippi, and the number 200 and/or the word Bicentennial. The deadline for submission is September 15 at 5 p.m. Committee members will narrow the selections, offering the public an opportunity to vote for the final logo design. The winning logo will be unveiled in late October.