The 2026 Diamond Youth Baseball and Softball World Series is set to open in Laurel, Mississippi, bringing together 174 teams and roughly 2,600 players and coaches for a three‑week competition that will showcase the region’s youth baseball and softball talent.
A Milestone for Laurel
This marks the sixth occasion Laurel has hosted the World Series, but it is the first time the tournament incorporates a dedicated softball division, underscoring the city’s growing reputation as a youth sports hub.
Organizers have prepared 14 fields, upgrading surfaces, buildings and volunteer logistics to accommodate the influx of participants and spectators.
Economic projections estimate that the event will draw about 18,000 visitors and generate more than $25 million in regional economic activity, a significant boost for Jones County.
Jones County Economic Development Authority President & CEO Ross Tucker highlighted that the addition of softball is expected to create an extra spike in revenue, reinforcing the tournament’s value to the local community.
A new section on the Visit Laurel & Jones County website will provide detailed information for attendees, including game schedules, retail options and dining recommendations.
The opening ceremony is slated for Wednesday, July 15, at the Magnolia Center in Laurel, where veteran coordinator Elvin Ulmer will join local officials to kick off the three‑week celebration.
Looking Ahead
Community leaders say the tournament will not only highlight athletic excellence but also strengthen regional ties, leaving a lasting legacy for youth sports in Mississippi.