swine dine memphis tigers and grizzlies themed bbq tent at WCBCC
Alex Shansky

Your Guide to Memphis In May International Festival

Are you ready for the 2024 Memphis in May International Festival? Join us in Memphis for a month long celebration with the 2024 World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, Great American River Run, International Salute to France and more.


WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BARBECUE COOKING CONTEST, May 15-18, 2024

Memphis is known for its barbecue, so it makes sense that each year we host a massive competition to decide who is the best meat-smoker and sauce-slatherer in the land. Teams from around the world come to compete, while others come out to gawk at the elaborate team tents, savor the good smells and revel in the party atmosphere. Plan your experience with our insider tips.  Get your tickets now. General admission and VIPit Passes are available.

Boutique, Luxury, Brand Names . . .
Find Your Dream Hotel
in Memphis

GREAT AMERICAN RIVER RUN, May 25, 2024

May is traditionally a month’s worth of food and celebration in Memphis. So what better way to burn off those extra calories than a 5k, 10k or half marathon? The Great American River Run is just that, taking participants along the Mississippi and through downtown Memphis, a beautiful course that mixes downtown architecture with river views.  

Beale Street Music Festival / Sean Davis
Memphis in May / Michael Butler
Beale Street Music Festival / Joey Miller
World Championship BBQ Competition / Alex Shansky

INTERNATIONAL SALUTE

Being the friendly and diverse city that it is, Memphis devotes the Memphis in May celebration to a different country and culture each year. Columbia, Canada, Poland and Ghana are just a few of the countries that have been honored in past years with themed events and educational programs taking place all throughout town. In 2024, Memphis in May is honoring the culture and heritage of France. 

MEMPHIS IS MORE THAN BBQ
FIND FINE DINING, GLOBAL EATS & MORE

BEALE STREET MUSIC FEST

Memphis in May traditionally kicks off with Beale Street Music Festival, but festival organizers are hitting pause on the popular music festival in 2024. Check back here for updates on the festival in the near future!

NEVER MISS AN EVENT IN MEMPHIS