Free events in Gulfport-Biloxi, MS

This complimentary networking and information session highlights how to get the most value from Chamber member benefits, how to navigate the member website, and what to expect at the most popular events. Participants may bring brochures, business cards, and promotional items to network and connect with new members, Chamber staff, and the ambassadors known as the Chamber Champions.

Enjoy a free, community-focused Mississippi Gulf Coast Book Festival at Jones Park’s Barksdale Pavilion. The festival highlights literacy and brings together local authors, families, and educational opportunities for everyone in the Gulf Coast region.

This Marina Cleanup at Keesler Marina Dock welcomes volunteers to help empty trash bins, pick up trash and debris, and pull weeds. All bags and gloves are provided, and participation is open to anyone.

A volunteer-driven beach cleanup focuses on tidying the shoreline near the Biloxi Lighthouse parking lot along the beach. No advance registration is required, volunteers can simply show up to help keep the coast clean.

Discover a free, family friendly celebration of books and community at Jones Park. The Mississippi Gulf Coast Book Festival highlights literacy, creativity, and connection with opportunities to meet local authors, browse vendor offerings, enjoy live entertainment, and take part in youth activities. Food and drinks will be available. This inaugural gathering is inspired by His Story, Our Journey in honor of Arthuris "AJ" Rapp, and it is dedicated to uniting the Gulf Coast through storytelling and education. Prospective vendors, sponsors, and authors can contact the organizers for participation details.

Near the Popps Ferry Bridge and Causeway, a festive flotilla sets out for a Mardi Gras themed boat parade that transforms Bayou Bernard into a sea of purple, green, and gold. Participants can display GCCA flags with pride while cruising in the procession. Sponsorship as a GCCA Mardi Gras supporter is open to everyone. Celebrate on the water with colorful boats and plenty of Mardi Gras spirit.

Get creative at the Arts & Crafts Center by painting a mug of your choice. You only pay for the mug, while glaze and studio time are included at no extra cost. This activity is open to those with base access and their sponsored guests, with a limit of one mug per person.

Hospice of Light’s experienced team offers support groups that help people navigate grief after the death of a loved one. Participants share with others who are going through a similar experience. These groups are open to the public and allow participation at any point in the series. There is no cost to attend, and registration is available by calling 228-818-2160. Conversations may cover what grief typically looks like, emotions that accompany loss, common misconceptions and clichés about grief, approaches for handling holidays and special occasions, the six needs involved in mourning, and ways to support personal healing.

Explore a variety of offerings including fresh local produce, breads and other baked goods, honey, jams, and arts and crafts, with food trucks on site and more to discover.