Page 122 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2026

122 | August 2026 www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
99 Days of Summer: Finding Something New Every Day
The “99 Days of Summer” campaign captures the essence of the season in Ocean Springs: long, warm days that invite curiosity and reward those willing to wander.
It is not about checking off a list of attractions. It is about discovering what makes each day feel different from the
last. A morning coffee that turns into a conversation with a local shop owner. An afternoon stroll that leads to a gallery you did not plan to visit. A sunset that stops you in your tracks along the waterfront.
This campaign highlights the depth of experiences available throughout the city—from locally owned boutiques and creative studios to outdoor
spaces, dining spots, and fun things to simply experience with the family.
Each of the 99 days is a reminder that there is always something more to see, taste, hear, or feel here—if you give yourself time to look.
Pelican Pound: Small Coin, Big Community Impact
While “99 Days of Summer” invites exploration, the Pelican Pound Coin Program adds a layer of connection and playfulness to the experience.
This initiative is built around a
simple idea: when visitors engage with participating businesses, they are not just making a purchase—they are becoming part of a local story. It is a $5 coin provided to shoppers who ask for it at the Ocean Springs Visitors Center, and it can be used at participating businesses—one per purchase, per season.
For businesses, it means increased visibility and meaningful engagement during the height of activity. For visitors,
it creates a sense of discovery and participation that goes beyond traditional tourism. It turns a day in Ocean Springs
into an experience of one that is rewarding and cost effective. It is about a locally-driven
economy supported by relationships, creativity, and shared pride.
The Chamber–Main Street Commitment
Behind these efforts is the ongoing work of the Ocean Springs Chamber- Main Street organization, focused on strengthening the community through thoughtful tourism, business support, and placemaking initiatives.
The goal is not only to welcome visitors, but to help them understand what makes Ocean Springs worth returning to again and again. That means creating programs that
highlight local character, support small businesses, and make it easier for people to engage with the community in meaningful ways.
From seasonal campaigns to downtown activations, everything is designed with intention—to ensure that growth and vitality
are matched with
authenticity and
care for the
community’s
identity.