About Crosstie arts and jazz festival

Now in its 57th year, Crosstie Arts and Jazz Festival is one of Mississippi’s longest-running spring traditions. In this place, creativity, community, and culture come together in downtown Cleveland each April.

Born more than five decades ago from a handful of passionate volunteers, Crosstie began under the shade of oak trees and beside the railroad crossties that gave the festival its name. Without fancy marketing, big budgets, or outside hype, it grew year after year through hard work, neighborhood pride, and word of mouth. That spirit still guides us today.

Over the years, Crosstie has become a must visit spring event, earning recognition as Mississippi Magazine’s Best of Travel Spring Festival in 2025, and celebrated for its vibrant juried visual arts, soulful jazz, and genuine hometown hospitality.