by DAVID HAMILTON

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — For a 26th year, the Minorville Jubilee will celebrate the neighborhood’s vast history Saturday, while also giving children an opportunity to have some fun before they have to hit the books again.

The festivities will last from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, kicking off with a march to Macedonia Baptist Church.

After the march, the church will host a “gospel hour” to be filled with singing from local gospel choirs, including those of Alvin Shelby and the Rev. James Lee. The gospel hour will last from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Following the gospel hour, the rest of the festivities will move to the lot at 50 Minor St.

The jubilee aims to provide an educational but fun experience for community members of all ages, especially focusing on both extremes of the spectrum: the children and the elderly.

As chairman of the nonprofit Minorville Jubilee, Inc., Ward 4 Alderwoman Felicia Irving said the event is meant to bring everyone together.

“The importance of this day is to unite the community in a day that we celebrate our history in the community and our future together,” Irving said.

Irving said community elders will share stories about their past, relaying the rich history of the area to the youth so they can learn about the Minorville legacy.

With such a heavy focus on the togetherness of the neighborhood, it is only fitting that much of the event’s offerings rely on donations from community organizations.

The jubilee offers free food — including hamburgers and hot dogs — for all, thanks to contributions from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Hicks-Chiks and Passbach Meats. Irving also said the Natchez Coca-Cola Bottling Company would provide free drinks.

Additionally, organizers will be handing out prizes, including a television, paintings, furniture, games for children and more — all donated by local entities.

And even though the kids will probably try to keep school out of mind during the festivities, school supplies will be handed out to ensure they are well equipped when that time comes.

“Hopefully it’s going to be a fun day that they can remember approaching back-to-school (time),” Irving said.

As always, one of the jubilee’s main features will take place when local firefighters open up a fire hydrant at approximately 1 p.m., giving children a chance to beat the heat in the cool waters until approximately 3:30 p.m.

Then, the jubilee will feature a new event: a 3-point basketball shootout. Children of three different age groups—10 and younger, 11 to 14, and 15 and older — will show off their hoops skills, with the winner of each group receiving a trophy. Irving said registration for the competition will be open until 3 p.m., and the shootout will begin at 3:30 p.m.

Irving said the event’s organizers have put great effort into spreading the word about the jubilee, and she hopes to have a great turnout of community members both young and old.

“We’re just welcoming them to come out and enjoy a fun-filled day,” Irving said.