Memphis is music. From Americana to hip hop, we're sure to host a music festival that will move your soul. Learn about Memphis’ unique music fests, where you can see some of the world’s best artists and bands perform live.
Memphis is music. From Americana to hip hop, we're sure to host a music festival that will move your soul. Learn about Memphis’ unique music fests, where you can see some of the world’s best artists and bands perform live.
THE International Blues Challenge
Jan. 13-17, 2026
Four days of music competition unlike any other. To perform at this event, all acts must win a preliminary competition in their home region. The result? A riveting lineup of the world's best blues performers of all ages and nationalities and a soul-shakin' Beale Street dance party with over 10,000 of your new best friends. Visit their website to learn more about the Blues Foundation's International Blues Challenge.
Cooper-Young Porchfest
April 18, 2026
For a one-of-a-kind festival experience, head to the Cooper-Young neighborhood for Cooper-Young Porchfest. The fest features dozens of local musicians and bands playing from the front porches of residences throughout the historic neighborhood and entertainment district.
Riverbeat Music Festival
May 1-3, 2026
RiverBeat Music Fest is returning to Tom Lee Park in 2026 with dozens of bands gathering for three days along the Mighty Mississippi. This year's headliners include Wu-Tang Clan, Dave Matthews Band, The Red Clay Strays, Ice Cube, T-Pain and more. Learn more about RiverBeat Music Festival.
Dreamfest Weekend & the OVERTON PARK Shell CONCERT SERIES
May 16-17, 2026, for DreamFest; Summer 2026 for Overton Park Shell Concert Series
DreamFest Weekend brings together area artists and musicians in a collaborative festival to promote Memphis arts and music. Take in local rap and hip-hop, among other genres, at this two-day event at the Overton Park Shell.
The Orion Free Concert Series at The Shell will present nearly 30 free events between May and October, including concerts, festivals and more. BYO picnics, beverages, blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged, though food and beverages will be available for purchase during each event.
2026 Shell Daze
May 17–18, 2026
Old Crow Medicine Show, Greensky Bluegrass, Sam Grisman Project, Molly Tuttle, Bailey Bigger and The Last Revel headline this outdoor music fest at Overton Park Shell. Get your passes today. If you splurge on a VIP pass, you'll get access to an exclusive viewing deck, early entry and a private discounted bar.
LIVE AT THE GARDEN
Select dates June–Sept. 2026
One of the many delights waiting inside Memphis Botanic Garden is Radians Amphitheater, an outdoor stage and lawn that is quickly becoming one of the city's most inviting live music venues. The Live at the Garden concert series runs annually from summer into fall. Last year's exciting lineup included Third Eye Blind, Parker McCollum, Darius Rucker, ZZ Top and The Isley Brothers. Check back soon for the 2026 lineup reveal. Several ticket options are available including Live at the Garden season passes and single-show tickets and as always, chairs, blankets and coolers are welcome, though there will be food trucks and bars on-site. Plus, there is a free shuttle from Laurelwood Shopping Center to ease traffic.
GONERFEST
September 2026
Get ready to rock! If you want a Memphis experience rich with music from around the world, you’ll want to experience Goner Records’ Fall Gonerfest. Rock fans will flock to Wiseacre Brewing Company in the Broad Avenue Arts District as this multi-day festival brings in talent from all over the U.S., Canada and Australia for a series of heart-pumping alternative rock ‘n’ roll performances you’ll love. Lightning Bolt, Silkworm, The Rip Offs, The Spits, Derv Gordon, Quintron & Miss Pussycat and Reigning Sound are just a few of the performers from previous festivals.
Mempho Music Fest
Oct. 9-11, 2026
Radians Amphitheater at Memphis Botanic Garden also plays host to the annual multi-day Mempho Music Festival, featuring some of music’s biggest names as well as a variety of local Memphis favorites. Past lineups have included acts such as Post Malone, Wu-Tang Clan, Widespread Panic, The Raconteurs, Father John Misty, Tyler Childers, The Flaming Lips and blues legend Bobby Rush. The natural beauty of the lush Memphis Botanic Garden provides the perfect backdrop for one of the most anticipated outdoor music events in the region.
