Treat Yo Self 2014 (Fall Edition): Oct. 11+12

by Liz Allen
Friday+Saturday editor

You’ve survived midterms and the much anticipated Fall Break is upon us, and in the words of Tom Haverford and Donna Meagle, it’s time to treat yo self. Many of us will head home or out of town, but for those of you sticking around Jacktown, The Purple & White is here with a weekend roundup to keep you from just sleeping and binge watching Netflix the whole time.

The Purple & White’s guidelines to treating yourself:

Step 1: Go out for dinner

     Get off campus. Whatever you have been craving all semester, now it the time. There is a whole host of recently opened restaurants with a variety of price ranges to choose from: Saltine Oyster Bar on Duling Avenue in Fondren or Lou’s Full-Serv in Belhaven. Or choose from a local favorite that won’t disappoint:Babalu Tacos and Tapas, Sal & Mookie’s or Pig and Pint.

     Oh, and get dessert.

Step 2: If you are of age, go out somewhere classy for drinks.

Put away your solo cups for the night. The Apothecary at Brent’s Drugs provides the perfect, dim-light vintage, Prohibition-style atmosphere for classic cocktails and conversation. Or, try out Caet, the wine bar recently opened by the owners of Walkers (and recently reviewed by yours truly).

Step 3: Go to a concert or event (if this is following Step 2, make sure you drink responsibly and have a designated driver).

There are plenty of different music genres, atmospheres and price ranges to suit everyone this weekend.

Option A: The State Fair
When: Fri. and Sat.
Where: Mississippi Fairgrounds, off High Street
Price: $5 for entry

If music isn’t in you, and you want to let out your inner kid, head over to High Street and the Fairground and catch the last nights of the Mississippi State Fair. $5 general admission, then catch your favorite rides and games. And need I say it? Funnel cake.

Option B: The Head and the Heart
When: Fri., 8 p.m.
Where: Hal & Mal’s, 200 Commerce St.
Price: $40

The Head and the Heart will have you swaying, possibly swooning, and harmonizing with their catchy and powerful choruses. In the same vein, though not as well-known as The Lumineers and Mumford & Sons, the Seattle-based indie folk rockers bring the energy and uplifting nature of their songs to a more intimate venue. Being college students, it’s hard not to balk at the $40 ticket price, but if you’re a fan, remember: treat yo self.

Option C: 2 Chainz

When: Fri., 8 p.m.
Where: Jackson Convention Complex
Price: $29 – $59

If all you want for your fall break is … to party with 2Chainz, consider your wish granted. The rising star of the southern rap scene, Atlanta-based rapper promises to bring something different. (Yes, he’s different). Here’s hoping he wears that leopard print jumpsuit.

Option D: Samuel Barker
When: Fri., 7 – 9 p.m.
Where: Cups: An Espresso Café, Fondren
Price: Free

If the first two concerts don’t quite do it for you, and you want something a little more laid-back, familiar, and/or free, then head on over to Cups. Get yourself a decadent coffee (or cocoa) and listen to Houston-based singer songwriter Samuel Barker.