A number of area high schools have out of town games this weekend so what better way to spend a Friday night than enjoying some live entertainment and fabulous art right in the middle of downtown Natchez.

The third annual art festival, Art & Soul kicks off at 6 tonight with live performances by Brandon McRaney until 8 p.m., and then the soulful sounds of Y.Z.Ealey will resonate through the streets until 10 p.m. Artists from around the south will line Commerce Street between Main and Franklin streets so be sure to bring your checkbook in case you stumble on that rare find and just have to have it. You’ll need that checkbook for the silent auction items anyway because there is a great line-up of fantastic items in the auction this year.

And speaking of line-ups, the Saturday entertainment line-up has a little something for everyone. Art & Soul cranks up again at 10 a.m. and Bill Abel will jump start the music at 2 p.m., followed by Henry Turner & Flavor at 4 p.m., then Country Fried at 6 p.m., and closing out the evening at 8 p.m. is Theresa Anderson.

If you’re worried about what to do with the kids while you’re relaxing in your lawn chair listening to the music, just bring them along because there will be lots of fun children’s activities on site. The pinnacle of fun this year for kids is the Monster Mural where kids can color animal images on a 20 x 6 foot mural.

The west end of Main Street will be closed off by a space jump and the dolphin slide and the charge is only $4 to jump and slide to their hearts content all weekend. And don’t worry about getting hungry as there will be plenty of food and drink available throughout the weekend too. Some adult libations will be on hand also to help with all the relaxing you plan to do, and some shade will be provided in a few areas if you’re concerned about sitting out in the sun.

There is simply no way not to have a great time this weekend at Art & Soul, so grab your comfy bag chair, and the kids, and head downtown for some great food, great art and great fun tonight and tomorrow.

Sally Durkin handles media relations for the Natchez Convention Center.