The Sip List: Top 5 is a new feature from The Sip Collective — a space to highlight what’s inspiring, challenging, and fueling creativity across our region. Each issue, we invite a storyteller, artist, or community voice to share five things on their mind — lessons, sparks of inspiration, or reminders worth carrying forward.
Top 5: What makes Clarksdale home?
For this Homegrown edition, Clarksdale native and journalist Aallyah Wright shares her Top 5 things that make Clarksdale feel like home.
Family Gathering
Whenever I’m back home, my visit isn’t complete without hanging out with my family. Whether we’re breaking out the spades or singing our hearts out to karaoke, it’s — hands down — my favorite activity.
Great Food
Southern comfort is best served as food. If I’ve gained a few pounds, I have to blame it on the burgers from Owens Burger Shack or Kenoy’s, or the hot lemon pepper wings from Pete’s Hot Wings. Or, I may task my brother to whip out the grill and barbecue. For the outsiders: yes, I am an avid buyer of fried chicken from the gas station! (Double Quick, anyone?) Nothing compares!
Authentic Vibes
I’m all about good vibes. I’ll head downtown and stop by The Matchbox for happy hour and some great music, then maybe cross the tracks and step into Red’s for that classic juke joint feel.
Walking History Book
Clarksdale is known as more than the “birthplace of the blues.” We are also a town steeped in civil rights, culture, arts, and sports history. You can walk the streets of downtown and find inspirational murals, historical markers, museums and signs on light poles honoring our local musicians, artists, leaders, educators, and athletes.
Homecoming Season
In the Mississippi Delta, high school homecomings are celebrated with the same intensity as college football games and graduation ceremonies combined. It’s the one time every year where we catch up with classmates and tailgate with an intergenerational mix of alumni. We adorn our red, white or blue t-shirts with our graduating class year and dance the night away. I have a bit of FOMO because I missed this year’s homecoming.