The City of Biloxi will celebrate its 320th birthday this Wednesday to commemorate the day, Feb. 13, 1699, when the French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville first set foot on the shores of present-day Biloxi.
Activities and reenactments will be taking place throughout the day to commemorate the coast city’s birthday making it one of the oldest communities in the country.
“Anything that’s 320 years old has got to be good,” said Biloxi Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich. “It has thrived and survived, and our efforts today are to make sure we have another 320 years of the city we cherish.”
A full history of Biloxi’s long and storied history can be read on the City of Biloxi’s website.
“Biloxi has a long and colorful history and is known around the world,” said Biloxi’s Historical Administrator Bill Raymond. “This birthday is an opportunity for us to celebrate that history and remind people, and ourselves, of the significance of this community.”
Below lists the schedule of events:
3:00 p.m.: Re-enactment of the 1699 landing of Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville on the beachfront, south of the Biloxi Lighthouse, greeted by Biloxi Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich.
3:20 p.m.: Birthday party at the Biloxi Visitors Center with free cupcakes and a commemorative gift for the first 320 guests.
5:30 p.m.: Downtown Block Party at Biloxi Brewing Company, 186 Bohn St., featuring entertainment and complimentary barbecue. For the occasion, the brewing company will be selling a commemorative “Biloxi Blue” brew.
Admission to all events is free and open the public.
