25+ Exciting Things To Do In July In Memphis
Your guide to the best things to do in Memphis in July 2026.
Your guide to the best things to do in Memphis in July 2026.
July in Memphis is hot, packed, and worth every sweaty minute. Here's what's happening this month.
Of course, this guide doesn't account for every single thing happening in Memphis this month. For even more events, consult these guides we update weekly:
- Huge List of 2026 Memphis Events, Festivals, and Shows
- Check out where you can find live music (updated monthly)
- The weekend guide is updated each week with exciting things to do on Friday-Sunday
- For even more events, just scroll though the blog's calendar
Sip and Stroll (21+) at Memphis Botanic Garden
July 2, 2026 | 6–8 p.m.
Kick off the first Thursday of the month with a relaxed after-hours walking tour on July 2 through the Radians Amphitheater at Memphis Botanic Garden. Stroll the Walk of Stars, step on the stage, and hear all about the Live at the Garden concert series while sipping two themed cocktails or mocktails included with your $35 tickets.
4th of July in Memphis
July 4–6, 2026
Cue the sparklers — it's time to celebrate! Fireworks shows are popping up all over the Mid-South including Independence Day on the River at Tom Lee Park on July 4 from 6–9 p.m. with live entertainment, food trucks, and a drone show and fireworks spectacular to close out the night, the Memphis Redbirds hosting the largest fireworks show in AutoZone Park history on July 4, and Graceland's Red-Hot 4th of July Weekend July 4–6 with an Elvis Tribute Artist concert and fireworks party on July 5. See all the fireworks displays, parades, and more in our 4th of July event guide.
Memphis Redbirds
July 2026
The Redbirds are home for three series this month with 11 games at AutoZone Park. The Charlotte Knights kick things off July 2–5 for the Red, White & Boom Weekend — America's 250th birthday bash with postgame fireworks on July 3 and the largest fireworks show in AutoZone Park history on July 4, plus Dinosaur Day on July 5 with a free dino jersey for the first 500 kids. The Iowa Cubs come to town July 17–19 featuring world-renowned competitive eating champion Joey "Jaws" Chestnut on July 18 plus postgame fireworks, and Christmas in July on July 19 with a free ugly sweater t-shirt giveaway. The Durham Bulls close out the month July 23–26 with postgame fireworks on July 25. Every Thursday has $2 PBR beers, every Friday is $5 Fiesta Friday with margaritas and street tacos, and Sunday games feature kids running the bases and an optional Sunday Brunch with bottomless mimosas in the air-conditioned Coors Light Chill Zone. Check out all the upcoming promotions here.
Café Society: Art and Sociability in Paris, 1855–1914
Through September 6, 2026
More than 50 works from public and private collections in the U.S. and Europe come together at the Dixon this summer to trace the rise of Parisian café culture — and how those smoky, sociable spaces transformed both daily life and art-making. Café Society moves through the French Revolution, Haussmann's reimagining of Paris, and the Franco-Prussian War to show how the café became a crossroads for artists, writers, and ordinary Parisians alike, and ultimately a subject of the art itself. On view through September 6, Tuesday–Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Peabody Rooftop Parties
Thursdays in July, 2026
The hottest rooftop party in Memphis is still going strong through July with five Thursday night parties this month. Doors open at 6 p.m. with bands from 7–10 p.m. This month's lineup features DJ A.D. and the Vibe Tribe (July 2), Basketcase (July 9), Saturday Sunset (July 16), Thomas Cain (July 23), and M-80's (July 30). General admission is $15, VIP is $40. 21+ only.
Sweeney Todd at Playhouse on the Square
Through July 12, 2026 | Playhouse on the Square
Sondheim's darkly brilliant musical gets the full treatment in this co-production with Opera Memphis. Sweeney Todd — wrongly exiled to Australia by the corrupt Judge Turpin — returns to London after 15 years with vengeance on his mind and a razor in his hand. With the help of the resourceful (and resourcefully horrifying) Mrs. Lovett, he sets his plan in motion above her Fleet Street pie shop. Evening performances run through July 12, with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.
Canoes + Cocktails at Shelby Farms Park
Most Friday Nights in July, 2026
Unwind with a guided sunset paddle on Hyde Lake, then kick back with Old Dominick craft cocktails, snacks, yard games, and tunes under the stars. Happening most Friday nights at Shelby Farms Park, this 21+ event sells out fast. Reserve your spot for the paddle or grab a cocktails-only ticket for the party on land.
An Evening with Wilco
July 7, 2026
Grind City Amp is newly open and already landing acts like this. Wilco brings their 2026 summer tour to Memphis on July 7 for a two-set evening with intermission — spanning more than two decades of music from Yankee Hotel Foxtrot to recent releases Cousin and Hot Sun Cool Shroud. One of the most celebrated bands in American rock, on the banks of the Wolf River. Don't miss it.
French Wine & BBQ
July 8, 2026 | 6:30–9 p.m.
Only in Memphis: the Memphis Wine Society pairs French wines with Rendezvous BBQ for an evening of tasting and education at one of the city's most iconic restaurants on July 8. All wines, food, tax, and gratuity are included in the $95 ticket. Valet parking is available for $6, paid directly to the restaurant.
10th Annual Ed Murphey Classic
July 10, 2026 | 2–8 p.m.
The 10th Annual Ed Murphey Classic brings elite track and field back to the Bluff City on July 10, and this year is bigger than ever — the event serves as a stop on the brand-new USA Track & Field World Shot Put Series, featuring Ryan Crouser, World Record holder and three-time Olympic Champion. Music, food trucks, beer, and a fan zone round out the day, with Beale Street Games continuing the action on July 11. Proceeds support local youth programs.
Sunkissed & Wellness Event
July 10, 2026 | 3:30–6 p.m.
Treat yourself to a free afternoon of self-care at Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa in Germantown on July 10. The Sunkissed & Wellness Event brings together local vendors — including Paradise Café, Meli Muah, Milka's Flower Truck, and more — plus complimentary chair massages, food and refreshments, skincare education, giveaways, and exclusive event-only specials. Free admission, but grab a ticket on Eventbrite so they can plan for you.
Anime Blues Con
July 10–12, 2026
Now in its 14th year, Anime Blues Con is the largest anime convention in West Tennessee — and it's back at the Renasant Convention Center July 10–12. Hundreds of hours of programming, cosplay, gaming, panels, vendors, and special events pack the three-day weekend, drawing fans from across the Mid-South. Convention hours are Friday noon–11:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–11:30 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Parking is available at the garage at 266 N. Front St. for $11.41 with advance reservation.
Midtown Smackdown
July 11, 2026 | Doors 6 p.m., Fights 7–10 p.m.
Memphis Armored Fight Club is back in Midtown and the knights are ready to throw down. Watch full-contact armored combat — real steel, real hits, all in good fun — as new fighters and fan favorites battle it out at Growlers on July 11. All ages welcome. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids 14 and under.
HEAT.WAV at Wiseacre Brewing HQ
July 11–12, 2026 | 10 p.m.–2 a.m.
Memphis's dance scene heats up at Wiseacre Brewing HQ for HEAT.WAV, a late-night showcase of bass, club, house, and everything in between from some of the Mid-South's finest selectors. Expect a pro-level sound system, a safe and welcoming vibe, and award-winning Wiseacre beers on tap all night. Presale tickets are $10, general admission $15, and $20 at the door.
Memphis Summer Cocktail Festival
July 12, 2026
This is one of the hottest festivals of the summer with seasonal sips, tasty eats, and ALL the throwback vibes. Your ticket includes 10 fun-size summer cocktails, plus access to all the fun and entertainment on July 12. Tickets start at $49.
SummerWeen
July 12, 2026 | 7 p.m.–2 a.m.
Halloween comes early at SummerWeen, Memphis' hottest costume party of the summer. On July 12, The Cadre transforms into a haunted dance haven with DJs Cozmo, DJ AD, DJ Tree, Goh Scotty, iLL STU, and Vibeology spinning, plus lasers, projection art, spooky drink specials, and free pizza. 18+ to enter, 21+ to drink. Dress up, show out. Tickets are $15–$20 presale, $25 at the door.
901 Wrestling: WildCard Rumble
July 12, 2026 | Doors 4 p.m., Bell 5 p.m.
Memphis wrestling is alive and well. 901 Wrestling takes over Minglewood Hall for a live taping of their biggest event of the year — the WildCard Rumble. Scheduled to appear: 901 Champ Chris Evans, 1819 Champ Prince Adonis, NWA star Kerry Morton, Walker XIII, Kevin Bless, Ken Dang, DRP, Brayden Toon, and more. Free parking, and kids 12 and under get in free with a GA ticket purchase. All ages welcome. GA tickets start at $9.01.
Sunset Jazz at Court Square
July 12, 2026 | 6–8 p.m.
The free Sunset Jazz concert series returns to Court Square on July 12 featuring Memphis jazz artist and educator Kenny Reed, an active performer, composer, and instructor of the Memphis Jazz Workshop known for his work across big band and orchestral ensembles. Grab a bite from a food truck, spread out a blanket, and enjoy an evening of live jazz steps from Beale Street. Free to attend, lawn chairs and blankets welcome.
Live at the Garden: Little Big Town
July 16, 2026 | Gates 5:30 p.m., Show 8 p.m.
Country's powerhouse harmony group Little Big Town brings their catalog to the Radians Amphitheater inside Memphis Botanic Garden on July 16. It's open lawn seating, so bring your own chairs or blankets — and yes, outside food and drinks are welcome. Lawn tickets start at $65, and a free shuttle runs from 5 p.m. to midnight on show night.
Hobby Kick-Start: Papier-Mâché Magic with Rafael Figueroa
July 16, 2026 | 6–8 p.m.
Get hands-on with one of the world's most versatile art mediums at this papier-mâché workshop led by artist Rafael Figueroa at the Dixon Gallery & Gardens on July 16. You'll learn foundational techniques from crafting the perfect paste to building complex, lightweight structures. All supplies included. Ages 16+. $25, $15 for members. Space is limited — registration required.
Dude Perfect: Squad Games Tour
July 17, 2026
Dude Perfect is bringing their brand-new Squad Games Tour to FedExForum on July 17 and it's going to be a wild one. Expect larger-than-life battles, unexpected twists, and for the first time ever, the entire floor becomes the battle zone with full 360° seating. A perfect night out for the whole family. Pound it. Noggin. Tickets here.
Totally Rad Vintage Fest
July 18, 2026 | 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Step into a time warp of fashion, music, gaming, and nostalgia when Totally Rad Vintage Fest takes over the Renasant Convention Center on July 18. Vintage vendors from across the country bring curated collections of '80s, '90s, and Y2K clothing, accessories, toys, records, and more, alongside a free-play vintage arcade, immersive throwback photo ops, and the Rad Rewind Museum packed with retro tech and pop culture artifacts. Come dressed in your best vintage look. Kids 12 and under are free.
Collage Coterie: A Collage Party Fundraiser
July 22, 2026 | 6–8 p.m.
The Collage Coterie is back and the category is: Disco Goth. Head to The Ugly Art Co. on Madison on July 22 for an intimate evening of collage-making with rare ephemera, live projection art by Micky Thordarson, a DJ set by DJ Livin, and embroidery with Anna House while sipping Ouri Matcha. Three-course hors d'oeuvres by JEM Dining plus wine and beer round out the night. Browse art from sponsors Allyn Makes and Rattlesnake Betty. Dressing on theme is strongly encouraged. $40 tickets, limited seating.
Memphis Classic: WTA 250
July 25–August 2, 2026
Professional women's tennis returns to Memphis for the first time in 15 years with the Memphis Classic, a WTA 250 tournament at the Leftwich Tennis Center. The full 32-player singles draw will be confirmed closer to the event, but former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens has already accepted a wildcard. Kick off the tournament on July 25 at 7 p.m. with the Nothing Major Exhibition — John Isner and Sam Querrey, who famously competed for the 2010 Memphis singles title, reunite alongside Stevie Johnson for a night of doubles, mixed doubles with two WTA pros, and plenty of surprises. Eight days of top-tier competition with tickets at varied price points — get yours here.
1st Annual Back to School Food Truck Festival
July 25, 2026 | 11 a.m.–5 p.m. | Shelby Farms Park
Kick off the school year with a full day of food truck eats and good vibes at Shelby Farms Park on July 25. The 1st Annual Back to School Food Truck Festival brings together some of the best food trucks in the Mid-South for an afternoon of delicious bites, great company, and all-around good times. Free to attend and family-friendly.
Music Export Memphis 10th Birthday Bash
July 25, 2026 | 2–7 p.m.
Music Export Memphis celebrates a decade of making Memphis a city of choice for musicians with a free, public Birthday Bash at W.C. Handy Park on Beale Street on July 25. The afternoon features DJ sets from South Memphis Jeff and DJ Rhinestonee presented in partnership with WYXR, plus live sets from Black Cream, Keia Johnson, Deonna Sirod, Nick Black, Raneem Imam, Optic Sink, and Hi Rhythm featuring Jerome Chism and Lina Beach. Food and drinks available for purchase. Free to attend.
Heatwave Half Marathon
July 26, 2026 | 7 a.m.–10 a.m.
Beat the heat and beat your PR at the Heatwave Half Marathon at Shelby Farms' Hyde Lake Pavilion on July 26. Choose your distance — Kids Dash, 1 Mile, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, or Relay — and every registration comes with a custom bib, designer shirt, and finisher medal. Free Kona Ice at the finish line is the reward you deserve. Kids 10 and under can run the Kids Dash for free, and 5K/10K pricing drops to $17 for ages 12 and under. Registration starts at $25.98.
Sunset Skate
July 30, 2026 | 6–9 p.m.
Groove and glide down Riverside Drive at this free skate night on July 30, the last Thursday of the month. This summer's Back 2 School edition comes with school supply and book giveaways while supplies last, skate dance lessons from Step & Skate Movement, and DJ sets from the Voice of MSCS. Free 30-minute skate rentals from Cordova Skating Center are first come, first served — bring your own pads, wrist guards, and helmet.
Whet Thursday: Karaoke on the Bluff
July 30, 2026
This month's Whet Thursday, the free monthly community event at the Metal Museum, is going full karaoke. Head to one of Memphis's most beautiful riverfront locations on July 30 and sing your heart out with DJ Tevin on the decks and prizes for the best performances. A food truck will be on-site, drinks available from The Tipsy Tumbler, and hands-on craft activities to round out the evening.
Suffs at The Orpheum
July 31–August 2, 2026 | 7:30 p.m.
Direct from Broadway, the Tony Award-winning musical Suffs lands at the Orpheum Theatre for three nights starting July 31. Created by Shaina Taub — the first woman to independently win Tony Awards for Best Book and Best Score in the same season — this "thrilling, inspiring, and dazzlingly entertaining" (Variety) musical follows the brilliant and passionate women who fought tirelessly for the right to vote. Winner of the Outer Critics' Circle Award for Best New Musical. Tickets are $62.20–$162.20. Recommended for ages 10+.
