Jackson Free Press

This weekend is a great time for finding unique holiday gifts at the 30th annual Mistletoe Marketplace at the Mississippi Trade Mart (1200 Mississippi Street). Shop until 8 p.m. tonight or head over tomorrow from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. $10. If big crowds aren't your thing, head to New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3533) for a production of William Gibson's "The Miracle Worker" or to Jackson State's Rose E. McCoy Auditorium (601-979-4309) for a performance of Ernest Gaines' "A Lesson Before Dying." Both shows close tomorrow, so this is a great evening to go. Where's the one place to go for all of Jackson's happenings? The JFP Events Calendar, of course.

Saturday, begin your morning with a brisk walk in the chilly morning air while making a difference with every step. NAMIWalks for the Mind of America is at Mayes Lake (LeFleur's Bluff, 115 Lakeland Terrace) and steps off at 9 a.m. Donations welcome; call 600-899-9058. Join the JFP team at http://www.nami.org/namiwalks10/MIS/jfp201. At 11 a.m., head to Brandon for Off the Leash for Epilepsy at Lakeshore Park (Lakeshore Drive, Brandon). The event includes music by David Schommer and the Jackson All-Stars. $5, $3 students, kids 5 and under free; call 601-936-5222. The JFP Best Bets page is always the first place to go when you're looking for something to do.

When you're ready to put on your best duds and your dancing shoes, don't forget to check the JFP Music Listings for the best live music in Jacktown. Whether you're in the mood for classical, blues, rock 'n' roll, you're sure to find something to your liking. Saturday's options include the Mississippi Opera's "Passion and Fireworks" at Belhaven University Center for the Arts at 7:30 p.m. ($25; call 601-960-2300), a Tom Jones tribute at Ole Tavern, The Juvenators at Fenian's and the D. Scott Jazz Quartet at Suite 106, among a couple dozen other options.

Sunday morning or after church, enjoy a leisurely brunch with your tunes at the King Edward Hotel, Fitzgerald's or Sophia's. All three venues offer varied menus and relaxing atmospheres, perfect for a conversation and fellowship. Of course, if it's good food you're after, let the JFP Restaurant Listings and the Menu Guide help you find your perfect meal.

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!