Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Veterans visited a one-stop shop at Town Square Park Saturday in downtown Hattiesburg as part of the annual VetFest organized by the Hattiesburg Disabled American Veterans Chapter #62—offering free wellness checks, live music, food and special recognition for World War II and Korean War veterans. Organizers said they plan to expand the event to other Gulf area cities in the future.

A local gymnastics club held a memorial event called Dogs for Derrick to honor late coach Derrick Barnes who passed away in January.

The event featured puppy adoptions, fun games, and a dedicated stair for him and raised funds to benefit the Southern Pines Animal Shelter—Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker declared the third Saturday in May as Coach Derrick Barnes Day.

Ace Hardware will give away one million free American flags on Saturday, May 24 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at its stores to honor Memorial Day in partnership with VFW + the store will offer summer savings on grills, tools and lawn equipment through Monday, May 26.

The 11th annual Craft Beer Festival in Hattiesburg will welcome more guests—organizers plan to expand capacity for the event.

William Carey University held its 12th College of Osteopathic Medicine graduation on Saturday at the Hattiesburg campus where 153 new doctors received their diplomas.

Most graduates are headed for post-graduate training in primary care, orthopedics, emergency medicine, or psychiatry — a sign of local growth — as they begin their careers.

Disability Rights Mississippi resumed taking new cases on Wednesday after receiving the rest of its 2025 funding— the group had paused operations on May 1 due to a funding delay and now focuses on protecting its 2026 funding.

A list of new Hattiesburg restaurants now gives local diners fresh places to find global flavors as Yelp ratings detail the available dishes.

A US Foods survey found Americans now eat out five times a month and spend about $191 monthly (with casual dining and fast food leading the trend) while families look for new spots to enjoy (offering a change from the usual).

Stringer High School's softball team beat Myrtle 7-4 on May 17 at the Southern Miss Softball Complex to win its first MHSAA state title — avenging a 2024 loss.

MVP Madilyn Graham pitched 20 innings while coach Landon White said the team used the past defeat as fuel to work harder.

Haunted Tavern Experience

6-7:30 p.m. — The Social — Tickets required — An immersive cocktail evening featuring ghostly tales and handcrafted drinks in one of Hattiesburg's most haunted venues.

Cade Ortego Live in Hattiesburg

8-10 p.m. — Brewsky's — $13.10 — Catch the lively performance by Cade Ortego and The Mood Swings for a night of great music.

Yonder – Featuring Works by Ricardo Moody

12-2 p.m. — Prospect On Main — Free entry — Enjoy a FestivalTalk with featured artist Ricardo Moody and an exclusive viewing of his commemorative artwork.

Dog Days Run Walk

7:30-9:00 a.m. — Kamper Park — Entry fee applies — Enjoy a family-friendly run or walk with your furry friends while supporting Hub City Service Dogs.