The name has changed, but the fun remains the same at this year’s Mississippi Spring Fest and Fair.

The event, formerly titled the Lincoln County Carnival, is in its fourth year at the Lincoln Civic Center and will feature the same lineup of rides, games, live entertainment and food, plus some new additions.

“We renamed the event from just a Lincoln County label to reach further around Mississippi,” said Quinn Jordan, director of the Lincoln Civic Center.

“This five day event has grown, and continues to grow this year with new offerings, so we thought the name should reflect the scale of what it has to offer,” he continued.

Jordan hopes to attract visitors from south of I-20 all the way down to the Gulf Coast.

“We want people to know that the Mississippi Spring Fest and Fair offers top-rate rides, food and entertainment second to none across the nation,” Jordan said. “We want families from all over the region to know that they would not be wasting a drive to Brookhaven/Lincoln County to enjoy this family-oriented activity.”

Festivities kick off Wednesday, May 8, as Youth Night with a concert by the Chris Lathum Band, guest speaker Tyson Lee (former Mississippi State University quarterback) and a fireworks show.

Thursday night is College and Talent Night. Aspiring entertainers between the ages of 13-21 have been invited to contend for a chance to advance to the Mid-South Fair Competition. Registration starts at 6 p.m., and performers take the stage at 6:30.

A hot air balloon glow will highlight the events for Friday night and will continue with a race at sunrise on Saturday.

Saturday will be a “Day on the Farm” with various agriculture-related activities throughout the day.

MSU’s “Bully” the bulldog will be on hand for photo opportunities between 1 and 2 p.m. Saturday. In addition, farm animal viewing areas, an antique tractor show and a corn grinding demonstration will mark the day for those avid agronomists.

The Ole Brook Bull Riding challenge will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday pitting the best cowboys around. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for children at the gate. Advance tickets can be purchased for a discounted price at the Brookhaven-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce or the Co-Lin Feed and Seed.

Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12, will feature a Gospel music showcase both local and regional acts.

“All of the general attractions, except the bull-riding competition, are free to the public,” Jordan said.

This year, even the parking is free, thanks to the help of several area sponsors.

For more information visit www.lincolnciviccenter.com.