Jackson Free Press

Save Saturday night for the animals at Jackson Zoo's annual Zoo Party. This year's theme is "Malaysian Magic," and proceeds from the event go to the restorations and expansion of the zoo's Asian area. This year's co-hosts are the JFP's own Donna Ladd and Todd Stauffer. A dozen of Jackson's finest restaurants will be serving their best; True to Life will be providing the tunes, and between the silent auction and raffle, you're sure to take home a treasure.

Blarney! If you're not Irish, CelticFest will make you wish you were. Friday night's music begins at 7 p.m., and the whisky tasting kicks off at 7:30 p.m. The festivities continue throughout the weekend with food, music, workshops and more, and tickets are cheap, so be sure to plan a visit. For something a bit more intimate, head to Fondren Corner for the monthly Rooftop Salsa Party at 8 p.m. You also have tons of music options tonight. The JFP Music Listings shows dozens of choices, from DJs to Karaoke, blues, rock 'n' rock, country—you name it.

Saturday morning, grab the family and head out. The 2009 Jackson Walk to Defeat ALS steps off at 9 a.m. in Flowood, while Clinton Community Center features "Snakes Alive" at 10 a.m. where the kids can get up close and personal with a snake. The Mississippi Craft Center features several demonstrations at 10 a.m., including glass, ceramics and weaving. At 1 p.m. head to The Auditorium for College Game Day to watch your favorite college team play. See more events on the JFP Events Calendar. Did I mention the farmer's markets? You can stock up for the weekend or the whole week at the Mississippi Farmer's Market, the Congress Street Market or the Greater Belhaven Market. Saturday is also a perfect day for gallery hopping. Check the Gallery Listings to see who's showing where. See the JFP Best Bets for Saturday night happenings, including the start of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra season with "Bravo I: An Evening of Romance and Intrigue" at Thalia Mara Hall at 7:30 p.m.

Be sure to check out Jackson's dining options on the JFP Restaurant Listings and the Menu Guide for the perfect dinner before heading out Saturday night or for Sunday's brunch. And speaking of Sunday, at 11 a.m. local celebrity chef Luis Bruno—former executive chef at the Governor's Mansion—will be demonstrating healthy cooking techniques at Huntington's Grille while you enjoy brunch. Don't forget CelticFest if you haven't stopped by yet, with more music and fun until 8 p.m. Need more options? Check out the JFP Events Calendar for complete event listings, and don't forget the JFP Movie Finder for the area's silver screen choices.

Do you have your "I Get It Once A Week" T-shirt, yet? What are you waiting for? Head to the JFP Swag Store today!

Is something missing? To make sure your event is listed on the JFP calendars, send the information to [e-mail missing] or [e-mail missing], or add your event yourself. It's easy!