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. 24-28, 2023
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.
2023 AMeripolitan Music Awards
February 17 - 19, 2023
See the best in rockabilly, honky tonk, western swing and outlaw music at this year's Ameripolitan Music Awards. Hosted at Hernando's Hide-A-Way and The Guest House at Graceland, the weekend will include vendors, a documentary on the birth of western swing, tons of live performances and showcases, a vintage western fashion show and more, capping with the awards show and afterparty Sunday night. Browse ticket packages here.
BEALE STREET MUSIC FESTIVAL
May 5 - May 7, 2023
Experience three days of non-stop entertainment from over 60 acts on four stages. The festival returns to Tome Lee Park in 2023, where visitors will get their first chance to see the new-look riverfront in Downtown Memphis. Stay tuned for lineup announcements coming soon. The annual outdoor festival is known to feature stellar lineups of popular artists that span genres and audiences, like Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, Van Morrison, Jack White, Post Malone, Sammy Hagar & The Circle, The Smashing Pumpkins and more in recent years. Plus, this year's Blues Stage on Beale will be free to the public at W.C. Handy Performing Arts Park. The all-ages event is a part of the annual Memphis In May International Festival, a month-long celebration that includes music, BBQ, and a culture-rich tribute to another country. Learn more about this year’s Beale Street Music Festival.
2023 Shell Daze
April 21-22, 2023
Southern Avenue, Leftover Salmon, Trampled by Turtles and more headline this outdoor music fest at Overton Park Shell. Get your two-day passes today. If you splurge on a two-day deck pass, you'll get three free drink tickets and access to an exclusive viewing deck and private bar.
Dreamfest Weekend & the OVERTON PARK Shell CONCERT SERIES
May 19 – 21, 2023 for DreamFest; Summer 2023 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 three-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 beverage will be available for purchase during each event.
LIVE AT THE GARDEN
Select dates June - Oct. 2023
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. Check back here for 2023 lineup updates. Last year, the 2022 season brought in major acts including Steely Dan, Darius Rucker, the Doobie Brothers 50th Anniversary Tour with Michael McDonald and Chicago. 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 2023
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 Railgarten, a former railroad substation transformed into a lively music venue and hangout space in Midtown Memphis, 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. The Spits, Quintron & Miss Pussycat and Reigning Sound are just a few of the performers from previous festivals.
MEmpho Music Fest
Sept. 29 - Oct. 1, 2023
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 and blues legend Bobby Rush. The natural beauty of lush Memphis Botanic Garden provides the perfect backdrop for one of the most anticipated outdoor music events in the region.
Soulsville USA Festival
October 2023
Head to Soulsville USA to see how the neighborhood is continuing the rich legacy and heritage of Stax Records at the annual Soulsville USA Festival. This festival highlights local musicians who are following in the footsteps of Stax Legends, like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Carla Thomas and so many more. Plus, the festival features food trucks and local vendors to boot. Come groove with us in Soulsville.
