Ellington

Several things make the 21-year-old WellsFest unique among Jackson's festivals—there's no charge for admission or parking, it's completely alcohol and drug free, and the proceeds of every sale, not just the runs, go to the beneficiary. This year it's Our House, a Catholic Charities project that shelters homeless and runaway youth ages 12-17, with the goal of having them return home someday.

The fun starts at 8 a.m. on Sept.25 with a 5K run and walk, then a one-mile fun run. The Mississippi Track Club, bastions of organized running in the state for nigh onto 30 years, directs these events, with the start and finish in the Smith-Wills parking lot. By 10 a.m., the music begins with new acts every 30 to 45 minutes.

For art lovers, there's a silent auction as well as a live auction that begins at 1 p.m. More than 30 works by area artists are up for auction. The featured piece is a vivid stained glass butterfly created by Wells Church youth at the Glass Garden Studio in Raymond with the help of stained glass artist Jane Mullins.

Throughout the day, there will be pony rides, face painting, games and other activities for children—all at a small fee. Parents can get a great cup of coffee and a homemade dessert at the Geri Allen Coffeehouse. Plus, there will be hamburgers and hot dogs from the WellsFest Chef and health foods from Rainbow Whole Foods.

Wellsfest takes place Sept. 25 at Jamie Fowler Boyll Park on Lakeland Drive, right beside Smith-Wills Stadium.