Good morning, Hattiesburg.

The Hattiesburg Zoo will host its annual Zoo Boo event—featuring glowing lanterns, animal encounters, rides and jump houses—on October 10-11, October 17-18 and October 24-30.

The event will run from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with tickets costing $14 online or $17 at the gate.

On Thursday morning, Hattiesburg police, firefighters and National Guard climbed the stadium steps at M.M.

Roberts Stadium on USM campus to honor first responders who died trying to save lives on 9/11—over 300 first responders began a similar climb in New York City 24 years ago. This annual event marks a tribute to those who risked everything and reminds the community of their sacrifice.

This weekend, residents can visit the Hattiesburg Zoo’s Wellness in the Wild from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — ticket required — and enjoy STEM Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for kids, plus car shows, dodgeball bashes, pop-up sales and festivals in nearby towns as cooler weather returns.

Forrest County supervisors approved a proposed budget for the 2026 fiscal year today—county officials say the plan will guide spending on projects and services in the coming year.

Hattiesburg City Council unanimously approved a $149.4 million budget for fiscal year 2026 on Thursday, with Mayor Toby Barker saying the plan will strengthen services like public safety and infrastructure while keeping finances stable—this budget provides a $5,000 raise for police officers and firefighters.

A special House committee began work on voting issues on Thursday—lawmakers plan public hearings and will draft bills to restore voting rights for felons, ease ballot initiative rules, and allow early in-person voting.

Lawmakers noted that 52,000 residents are currently unable to vote due to nonviolent felony records and warned that early voting may face strong opposition from state leaders.

Dr. Diego F. Alcivar of Hattiesburg Clinic explained that atrial fibrillation—a heart condition causing an irregular beat and symptoms like palpitations and fatigue—can lead to stroke if left untreated and is treatable when caught early during AFib Awareness Month.

He urged those experiencing these symptoms to see a doctor for timely care.

The Mississippi National Guard hosted its second annual Red, White & Blue Run at Camp Shelby on Thursday, drawing over 1,100 high school and middle school runners—high schools ran a 5k while middle schools completed a 2-mile course—and held a moment to honor those killed in 9/11.

Southern Miss extended baseball coach Christian Ostrander's contract through the 2029 season on Sept.

11 after two strong seasons that saw the Golden Eagles post 90 wins and two NCAA tournament bids — including a 47-16 season with a host regional last year. He signed the four-year deal after starting his role following the 2023 season.

Today, the Columbia High School Wildcats play the Petal High School Panthers at Walter Payton Field starting at 7 p.m.—the game is a crucial early-season test as the Wildcats aim to improve to 3-0 while the Panthers try to overcome recent turnovers.

Christian Ostrander signed a new four-year contract with his team — the deal will run until 2029 — on September 11th.

He will stay with the team as they prepare for next season.

Toad the Wet Sprocket with KT Tunstall

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of heartfelt music from the beloved band Toad the Wet Sprocket and the dynamic KT Tunstall.

James McMurtry Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a night of Texas music with James McMurtry and special guest BettySoo.

Shrek The Musical by Picayune Theatre Company

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience a full-scale musical adventure with Shrek and friends in this vibrant community production.

Shrek - The Musical

7-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience a larger-than-life fairytale adventure with a talented cast in this high-energy musical.

Hocus Pocus Movie Night Experience

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Hattiesburg Saenger Theater — Special event price — Experience a magical night with costume contests and themed treats at this enchanting screening.

Taste Of The South Food Truck Festival

11 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Fairley's Wings & More — Free entry — Experience a delicious gathering of food trucks and live music showcasing the best flavors from the South.

Rainbow Kitten Surprise: Thanks For Coming Tour

7:30-9 p.m. — The Lawn at Lake Terrace — Ticket prices vary — Experience genre-defying music with Rainbow Kitten Surprise's electrifying performance.