Jackson Free Press

If Widespread Panic's two-night residence in Jackson wasn't enough cause for celebration, show promoter Arden Barnett and crew at Ardenland have created a full schedule of events around the band's arrival. Here's a look at the additional events in store.

Tuesday, April 12

Even if you're missing the main event, you don't have to miss all the music. Beside the fountains outside Thalia Mara Mall at 5 p.m., Tupelo-based blues-rock duo Rooster Blues will play a free pre-show—no ticket required. The band wraps up at 6:30 p.m. with plenty of time to find your seat before Widespread's show at 7:30 p.m.

After Thalia Mara's festivities end, head over to Hal & Mal's for Late Night featuring Dayton, Ohio-based classic-rockers The Werks. The doors open at 10 p.m., and music kicks off at 11 p.m. Tickets are $15 at ardenland.net.

Wednesday, April 13

Whether Wednesday is your first time seeing Widespread or your second time just this week, you may want a warm-up. Treat yourself to a second free pre-show, this time featuring Jackson's own vibraphone-led jazz trio, the Vibe Doctors, 5 p.m. at Thalia Mara Hall. The band will close as the venue doors open at 6:30 p.m., one hour before the legendary jam band takes the stage.

To stave off the realization that you just saw Widespread's final Jackson performance of this tour, visit Hal & Mal's for another Late Night show with Oxford-born, Nashville-based electronic-rock act Zoogma. Doors open at 10 p.m., and you can grab tickets to Zoogma's onstage duel of lights and sound for $15 at ardenland.net.