The beautifully restored Hattiesburg Saenger Theater adds a certain nostalgic spark to any night out on the town, especially with new, summer events such as “Saenger Classics” and frequent dinner theater packages.

Opened on Thanksgiving Day in 1929, the historic Saenger is the classic addition to an evening of dining in downtown Hattiesburg. The Saenger is one of Mississippi’s 2 examples of movie-palace theaters. Several downtown restaurants, including 206 Front, Hub City Grill, and Walnut Circle Grill, now offer casual fine dining plus show tickets for an affordable and unique night on the town. One exciting upcoming dinner theater event is Mississippi ’s Miss Hospitality Pageant on July 30-31.

Upon the completion of a $2 million renovation in 2000, the Saenger Theater entertains modern-day audiences, much to its original, silver screen grandeur. “Saenger Classics” show at the theater on various Thursday nights at 8 p.m. and various Sundays at 3 p.m., complete with popcorn and a nostalgic movie atmosphere. Be sure to get downtown for the next series of “Saenger Classics.”

The Saenger Theater hosts many events throughout the year, from choral and instrumental recitals to Broadway productions by Hattiesburg’s local theater troupes. For information on upcoming events, dinner theater packages, and show tickets, call the Saenger Theater Box Office at 584-4888 or visit
 www.hattiesburgsaenger.com.