Jackson Homecomers a great small-town festival

Despite some inclement weather last week, a longstanding Southeast Missouri tradition continued: Jackson Homecomers.

The festival, which takes place on the courthouse square, first took place over 100 years ago. Former Jackson residents and their families would return to town each fall for a big reunion.

Over the years, the festival grew and more events were added to the schedule. Today we have a weeklong summertime celebration featuring live music, concession stands and other vendors, games, a pageant, carnival rides and more.

This year's 108th annual Homecomers got off to a soggy start, with rides and music being canceled, but the weather didn't dampen the spirits of those who headed to uptown Jackson determined to take part in the annual tradition. Sandwiches and sweet treats exclusive to Homecomers were still available, making the trip worth it for some. Others came out to catch up with friends and neighbors they hadn't seen in a while.

"I'm more looking forward to seeing some of the people we know," Donna Longman said. "That's one of the great things about living in Jackson." Being from Atlanta, her family is still getting used to the small-town pace.

"... This whole small-town thing is still new to us," she said, "but we love it."

And that's what makes gatherings such as Homecomers so great. An event like this held in a big city would lack the intimacy and neighborly feel of those held in small towns like Jackson. We're happy to see the tradition carrying on and look forward to next summer's Jackson Homecomers.