Schedule
Story Slam
The Arts Hancock County is joining forces with 100 Men Hall and HOMEGROWN and presenting a Story Slam to bookend the four-day event.
What is a Story Slam? Think, poetry slam without the rhyming. Each Slam features stories that are humorous, touching, revealing, and poignant. And with every story told, we become more connected to those around us. Storytellers have 5-ish minutes to tell a true story they personally experienced, based on the theme chosen for the event.
What’s the Theme? “Surprise!” Stories can range from that time you tried to surprise a friend only to be surprised right back, to that ring you didn’t see coming, to the time that guy who never comes through, actually did.
Don’t have a story to share? (For the record, we know you do.) Come enjoy the tales of others. Story Slams are always filled with laughter, a few tears and, of course, a one or two surprises.
Like all HOMEGROWN events, Story Slam is FREE. There will be a cash bar.
Main Event: HOMEGROWN 2026
Immerse yourself in a full day of stories from the South at HOMEGROWN.
Hosted on the beautiful Gulf Park Campus of The University of Southern Mississippi, HOMEGROWN invites locals and visitors alike to discover the power of Southern storytelling and the culture that inspires it.
Enjoy panels, author talks, and more featuring award-winning storytellers who share insights into character, craft, and creativity.
W. Ralph Eubanks Author Talk & Opening Reception
Hosted by Pass Christian Books at 301 East Scenic, hear W. Ralph Eubanks discuss his latest book, When It's Darkness on the Delta. Eubanks delivers a powerful and insightful examination of how racism and economic instability have shaped life in the Mississippi Delta.
After the author talk and book signing, enjoy complimentary drinks and celebratory networking with fellow HOMEGROWN event-goers.
Youth Programming
500+ students who register for this day of HOMEGROWN programming through the Live Oak Writing Project will learn creative writing skills through hands-on sessions facilitated by graduate students from the USM Hattiesburg CENTER FOR WRITERS, as well as enjoy a keynote session featuring Jason Reynolds and Jesmyn Ward.
Please send questions about registration to: Rebecca.a.powell@usm.edu.
MacArthur Fellows Jason and Jesmyn will be in conversation on The University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Park Campus a day ahead of the public HOMEGROWN event.
Kickoff: Corky Siegel LIVE at 100 Men Hall
Program Update: Due to weather conditions, Thacker Mountain Radio Hour is unable to join us for Thursday night’s event. The evening at historic 100 Men Hall will continue as planned, with doors opening at 530 PM.
Author W. Ralph Eubanks and Corky Siegel will take the stage for a lively night of conversation, music, and community as we kick off a special weekend in Bay St. Louis.
This event is free and open to the public!
Seating is limited—arrive early and bring your people!
Doors Open: 530PM
Show Starts: 6PM
Book Signing: 7PM
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Thacker Mountain Radio Hour kicks off this year’s event with a live show at historic 100 Men Hall in Bay St. Louis on Thursday, January 29. Doors open at 5:30 PM.
Author W. Ralph Eubanks and musical guests Corky Siegel (Blues) and The Veal Brothers (Gospel) will join Thacker Mountain Radio Hour on stage for an evening of conversation, performance, and entertainment.