The 100 Men Hall celebrates 3rd annual Booker Fest

The 100 Men Hall in Bay St. Louis held its third annual Booker Fest over the weekend and is celebrating 100 years of 100 Men Hall.

Musicians and comedians came to show off their talent at one of the most unique physical sites still standing on the Mississippi Blues Trail.

Booker Fest is a fundraiser that maintains one of the few significant African American landmarks in Mississippi.

The festival was named after the famous key board player James Carroll Booker III who was raised by an aunt in Bay St. Louis, where he learned classical piano.

Booker’s unique style combined rhythm and blues with jazz standards.

Attendees grabbed some food and drinks, while listening to performers, and also entered a chance to win a raffle basket full of the Hall’s merch with Booker’s album and photos.

The 100 Men Hall ended the festival with drag brunch on Sunday. 100 Men Hall Director Rachel Dangermond said, “It’s been great, we had an amazing turn out last night. We’ve had an amazing turn out today. It really been wonderful. We’re so grateful for the community that comes out and supports us and also grateful for the unbelievable talent that comes in here and performs. Musicians love to play this hall. you know why? because ray Charles played here. James Brown played here. Ed James played here. These amazing giants played here and when you come in and get on stage, you feel that energy.”

To learn more about the history of the hall or book for an event visit the 100menhall.com.