This Disturbing Event In Mississippi Is So Creepy It Inspired A Movie
The Bell Witch legend, one of the most documented hauntings in American history, has connections to Mississippi, involving the Bell family and strange occurrences in Panola and Yalobusha Counties.
Over the years, the legend of the Bell Witch has inspired countless movies. The Blair Witch Project and An American Haunting are just two of many. The story is widely known but there’s one fact that most people are completely unaware of – the Bell Witch has connections to Mississippi.
The story of Betsy Bell, her father John, and the Bell Witch is one of the "most documented hauntings in American history." (It’s also one of the most terrifying!)
The witch focused its malevolent energy on Betsy and John, tormenting them for years to come. Over time, she revealed that she was opposed to Betsy’s engagement. The Bell Witch also made something else very clear – a strong desire to end John’s life.
In 1820, John passed away. Shortly after, Betsy called off her engagement and the Bell Witch seemed to leave the family alone…but not completely.
Many believe Betsy was cursed - a notion that seems to be confirmed by a life full of grief and tragedy. In addition losing four children at young ages, her husband became invalid after suffering a stroke.
Following her husband’s death in 1848, Betsy Bell moved from Tennessee to Yalobusha County, Mississippi.
In 1888, she passed away and was buried in the remotely-located Long Branch Cemetery near Water Valley, where she remains to this day. However, the story of the Bell Witch doesn’t end with Betsy.
John T. Bell, the grandson of John Bell, and his family were allegedly tormented by the Bell Witch in Panola and Yalobusha Counties.
According to legend, John T. Bell’s daughter, Mary, fell in love with an overseer named Gerald.
Completely against the love affair, John T. Bell killed Gerald. Not long after, Mary became extremely ill and constantly spoke of Gerald, before falling into a state of unconsciousness. Several days later, she awoke, proclaimed she was going to be with Gerald, and died.
On the way to Mary’s funeral at Long Creek Ceremony in Panola County, a large dark bird flew circles around the carriage carrying the casket. As the story goes, the bird stayed until last piece of dirt was put on the casket.
But that's not all. According to local lore, there have been a lot of strange happenings in Panola and Yalobusha Counties over the years. The occurrences include blood coming out of faucets, strange lights in woods at night, and people hearing their names called when in the woods.
Watch the video below to learn more about the legend of the Bell Witch.
This isn’t the only witch associated with Mississippi. Read about another here.
Is there anything more nostalgic than driving around to see the Christmas lights in Mississippi during the holiday season? Dazzling displays abound here as evidenced by the following inspiring and delightful light shows. With so many amazing places to experience holiday lights here in the Magnolia State, sit down and start planning a season of fun. From renowned light shows to local favorites, here are the best displays of Christmas lights in Mississippi guaranteed to make your holiday pure magic.
The Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival is a local favorite with some of the best Christmas light displays near me. Beginning in 2015, Island View Casino & Resort and The City of Gulfport collaborated to bring a Winter Holiday Festival to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, unlike any other holiday show in the State of Mississippi. Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, visit Santa Claus, and hop on a train at the Train Station. This is a delightful event the whole family is sure to love. Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival begins near the end of November and typically goes through New Year's Eve. Read more on the Gulfport Harbor Lights website.
In Natchez, Mississippi, the festive fun typically begins the Friday after Thanksgiving with the annual Lighting of the Tree and continues through New Year's Day with city-wide celebrations, which include tours of the beautifully decorated historic homes that fill Natchez. You'll find some of the best Christmas lights in Mississippi here in Natchez. For more information, check out the Christmas in Natchez website.
3. 50 Nights of Lights, Cleveland
This winter wonderland comes by way of more than 1,000,000 lights transforming the city this holiday season. One of the best Christmas light displays lasts from mid-November through New Year's Day by walking the trail or driving through in your vehicle. Admission is free to this fun event. Find out more on the 50 Nights of Lights website.
4. Christmas in the Park, Tylertown
Attracting more than 30,000 visitors a year, this dazzling display is made up of millions of lights. The annual light show is open from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve and is a must-visit holiday event. Christmas in the Park is held at Holmes Water Park, which is located at 65 Old Highway 98 East in Tylertown. For more information, visit the Christmas in the Park Tylertown Facebook page.
5. Canton Victorian Christmas Festival
During Canton’s annual festival, the Historic Courthouse Square is set aglow with over 200,000 glittering lights, making it one of the most exciting Christmas light shows. The much-anticipated fun also includes parades, train and trolley rides, the Merchant's Open House, the Carousel on the Square, and Canton’s Magical Animation Museum, which is filled with 135 life-sized holiday figures. The festival is typically held from the end of November through December, but exact dates vary by year. To plan your trip to these Christmas festivities, visit the Canton Christmas Festival webpage.
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6. Snowflakes in the Bay, Bay St. Louis
From November through New Year's, Mississippi's enchanting Bay St. Louis will be transformed into a magical coastal wonderland, thanks to the Snowflakes in the Bay festival. Aside from holiday-themed activities, such as tree-lightings, concerts, and ice skating, the annual event also means the city's beautiful, century-old Live Oak trees will be decked to the nines with glowing, sparkling snowflakes. For more details, visit the City of Bay Saint Louis Facebook page.
7. Downtown Christmas Light Display, Yazoo City
During the Christmas season, the small town of Yazoo is set aglow as the city’s Main Street is adorned with colorful lights. And the best way to see these Christmas lights in Mississippi is by taking a carriage or trolley ride through Yazoo’s downtown. The city’s Yuletide celebrations typically begin the first weekend of December. Read more on the Visit Yazoo website.
8. Light Garden, Olive Branch
We love to let the warmth of the holiday season settle in through stunning illumination, live holiday entertainment, and unique gift shopping at the Light Garden.
Held in Central Park, Southaven’s annual drive-through display encompasses 116 acres adorned with 500,000 twinkling lights, some of the best Christmas lights near me. While visiting this local favorite, be sure to check out the Christmas Tree Farm, which is synchronized to music by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The amazing light show is a must-see and is generally open from Thanksgiving until New Year's Eve. For more information on this event and all other Christmas festivities, visit the DeSoto County website.
10. Christmas on Deer Creek, Leland
Beginning first thing in December Downtown Leland invites you to its 59th Annual Christmas on Deer Creek celebration! The daylong event event starts with the excitement of the arrival of Santa at sunset, on a water-propelled sleigh down Deer Creek, with all of the floats remaining lit during the holiday season. Read more about the fun on the Christmas on Deer Creek webpage.
11. Christmas in the Park, Collins
Typically held from the end of November through the end of the year, this annual light show takes place on select nights at Mississippi's Bettie D. Robertson Memorial Park. One of the best Christmas light displays near me is meant to honor both the birth of Jesus Christ and the heroes of the United States Armed Forces. There's no admission charge, however, donations are accepted at the exit gate. Discover more on the Christmas in the Park webpage.
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12. Lewis Light Show, Purvis
For well over two decades, this family-operated light show has been getting people into the Christmas spirit here in Mississippi. Made up of over 200,000 lights and several pieces of original art, the larger-than-life display has actually attracted visitors from as far away as Canada, Europe, and Asia! The light show is located at 280 White Chapel Road, is free to attend (donations are accepted, however), and is open seven days a week, weather permitting, until the end of the year. For more information, check out the event's Lewis Lights & Crafts website.
13. Lazy Acres in Lights, Chunky
From Thanksgiving until Christmas, Lazy Acres Farm completely transforms into an epic winter wonderland that would make Elsa jealous! Holiday visitors can take part in a magical hayride that includes festive holiday scenes, thousands of twinkling lights, and the state’s largest hand-painted nativity scene at one of the most amazing displays of Mississippi Christmas light displays. For more information, visit the Lazy Acres Farm website.
Watch this brief video of the upcoming fun at 50 Nights of Lights.
On or off this list, what do you think are the best displays of Christmas lights in Mississippi? If your favorite light displays didn't make our list, please fill out our nomination form. For more Christmas lights near me and other epic adventures this holiday season, take a road trip to see some of the most magical Christmas lights in Mississippi.
And while you're traveling through this festive state, look for lodging on Expedia.com.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
