Downtown Unlocked

MAY 2, 2026
8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
STARTING AT 326 MAIN STREET

Join us for Downtown Unlocked—a unique opportunity to step inside available downtown spaces, explore their potential, and imagine what’s next for our community. Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or simply someone who loves downtown, this is your chance to see firsthand where the future of Natchez can grow!

Saturday, May 2, 2026
8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
326 Main Street, Natchez, MS

Featured Keynote Speaker: Dr. Rachel Carter
Rachel Carter, Ph. D. specializes in community and economic development, public policy, tourism, economic impact and market analysis, retail trade, and natural resource policy at the Center for Government & Community Development, Mississippi State University. She is well known as a successful strategic action planner with a special passion for helping communities, industries and organizations take action to create positive economic development.

This event is part of our ongoing work to support placemaking and downtown living, helping bring new life to historic spaces right here in the heart of Natchez. There’s room for everyone at the table—and maybe even a key waiting for you!

Thanks to this years participating exhibitors and sponsors!

For more info and questions:
https://natchezdna.org/destination-downtown/
director@natchezdna.org

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• Kick Off, Kudos, & Keynote Address – 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Celebrate our success with coffee, pastries, and mimosas, followed by a presentation on fresh market insights from Dr. Rachel Carter of MSU, “Unlocking Downtown Business Potential”

• Possibilities Tours and Lunch – 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Enjoy Restaurants, Shops, Walking Tours, & play Downtown Bingo! *Trolly available for those who need assistance!
1. Historic Downtown Walking Tour with Carter Burns from HNF
2. Economic Opportunity Walking Tour with Dr. Rachel Carter
3. Self-Guided Walking Tour; map to be provided

• Ask the Experts: Ideas to Action – 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Get the information you need for networking and the solutions to meet your goals fast: Historic Preservation Tax Credits, Zoning, Approval + Processes + Opportunity Zones + Downtown Doorway Real Estate Finder + Market Needs Research + New Business Lending & Coaching