The Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation will kick off the 12th season of “Classics in the Courtyard” Friday.

Executive Director Stacey Mahoney said there are many factors that contribute to the success of “Classics in the Courtyard.”

“A combination of a few things has made Classics so popular here in Vicksburg,” Mahoney said. “It’s the atmosphere of our beautiful courtyard, great music, delicious food and good friends.”

Offered from noon to 1 p.m. for four consecutive Fridays at the SCHC, 1302 Adams St., those who attend have the opportunity to enjoy free entertainment. A light lunch can also be purchased for $10.

Reservations are required for the meal.

Ralph Miller is on tap to perform Friday and The Biscuit Company will provide the meal.

Different restaurants provide the meal each week and there is also a variety of musical entertainment.

“I think the food vendors and musicians really like to be involved with Classics,” Mahoney said. “We try to switch it up each year and involve new restaurants and new musicians.”

“Classics in the Courtyard” will hold its second concert Friday, Oct. 25, with lunch provided by Billy’s Italian Restaurant. Patrick Smith will perform classic Blues, rock and original pieces he has written.

On Nov. 1, The Anthony is scheduled to provide the meal, and Lee H. Abraham & the Boone Brother will perform.

For the final “Classics in the Courtyard,” Chad Perry will be the featured performer and lunch will be provided by Goldie’s Express on Nov. 8

“My favorite thing about ‘Classics in the Courtyard’ is watching the community have a great time at the SCHC,” Mahoney said.

As the SCHF marks its 25th anniversary, Mahoney said it is programs like this one that assure the foundation continues to succeed.

“I think it means we are doing something right for programs like Classics to still be going strong,” she said. “It is important for us to know the successful programs, and keep them going.”

For more information, or to make reservations for lunch, call 601-631-2997.

Additional events happening at the SCHC during the month of October include the Haunted Halloween “Monster Bash.”

Featuring The Chill, the event will be Saturday from 7-10 p.m. and will also include food, signature cocktails and a costume contest. Tickets are $25 per person or $40 for a couple.    

Tuesday, from 5-7:30 p.m. “Crafty Halloween with Lana” will be held.

The arts and craft class is open for ages four to nine and will include decorating a pumpkin, creating a haunted house and making a skeleton. The cost is $35 per person. Space is limited and reservations are required.

On Oct. 26, from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., a Haunted Halloween Ghost Hunt with the Mississippi Paranormal Society will be offered. Tickets are $60.

A limited number of tickets are available, and they must be purchased in advance.

“Kids in the Kitchen” Halloween edition will be held Oct. 28 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The cooking class will be led by Margie Heltzel and is geared for ages 4-to-12. The registration fee is $35 and includes all supplies. Space is limited and reservations are required.

On Oct. 29, from 5:30-8 p.m. Lebanese Cooking with Lana is scheduled. Registration is $35 for SCHF members and $40 for non-members and includes all supplies.

Space is limited and reservations are required.