NATCHEZ, Miss. – You may have noticed a new energy surrounding the MLK Triangle at the intersection of Jefferson and MLK streets in downtown Natchez. From new murals to events like the First Saturday Street Market, this renewed vitality of the MLK Triangle is thanks to a united effort of a growing number of community members.
Organizer Joseph Smith recently talked with Listen Up Y’all’s Kolby Godfrey on a special edition of Miss-Lou Matters. Joseph is a Natchez-native and he is excited to be back in his hometown, organizing events and working on projects that build excitement around restoring an important part of Natchez history.
The First Saturday Street Market kicked off in January of this year and happens on the first Saturday of every month. “We are excited about everything happening around that,” said Smith. “We are trying to revitalize the MLK Triangle area here in Natchez and the First Saturday Street Market is just one effort toward that end.” The goal of the organizers is to see this culturally significant area, which was historically the African American business district, become a true gateway into downtown Natchez that will make the whole community proud.
When talking about how the MLK Triangle can be re-envisioned, Smith said, “We want to see businesses over there. We want to see people over there hanging out, enjoying a good time and all the culture that has traditionally existed in that area, but not for the last 50 years or so.”
This event is also set up to directly support small businesses in the community. Smith and other organizers want to hear from you if you are interested in being a vendor of any kind or if you would like space for your community organization.
“We are excited to provide a platform for small business owners,” said Smith. “We know that small businesses are the engine of Natchez. So, we want to create an opportunity for business owners, especially for those that don’t have a brick and mortar space. We also have opportunities for performers.”
The First Saturday Street Market will happen again this Saturday, May 7th, 11AM – 5PM. It is a free event with a variety of vendors, entertainment, and food. Joseph Smith and other organizers have put in endless work to revive this area in an effort to unite the entire community! All you need to do to support this worthy cause is come out, shop, eat, hang out and have a good time.
To keep up with this event and other projects at the MLK Triangle, follow them on Facebook at First Saturday Natchez.
If you would like information on vendor registration, please email them at firstsaturdaynatchez@gmail.com.
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