From concerts to foodie feasts, Memphis has a year full of signature festivals, where locals and visitors alike can come together and celebrate the best the city has to offer. Plan your next vacation around one of our signature festivals described below, and if you're specifically interested in food, music or cultural fests, we've got details on those too!
From concerts to foodie feasts, Memphis has a year full of signature festivals, where locals and visitors alike can come together and celebrate the best the city has to offer. Plan your next vacation around one of our signature festivals described below, and if you're specifically interested in food, music or cultural fests, we've got details on those too!
Memphis in May
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Beale Street Music Festival
May 5 - 7, 2023
Tickets are on sale now for one of Memphis' longest running music festivals, Beale Street Music Fest. This year's three-day festival will give visitors their first look at the revitalized riverfront at Tom Lee Park. Last year's fest saw Megan Thee Stallion, Van Morrison, Smashing Pumpkins and more, so guests can expect a pretty stellar lineup in 2023. Check back soon for lineup announcements and more details on the festival. -
World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest
May 17-20, 2023
Pitmasters from around the world come to this annual event to show off their skills at one of the country’s most prestigious barbecue cooking competitions. Head to Tom Lee Park to stroll past wildly decorated booths and rigs, where teams compete in tasty categories for big prize money. General admission grants you entrance, but add on a Kingsford Tour of Champions or BBQ Alley experience to sample the goods. Or, splurge on a VIPit pass to get behind-the-scenes access to competitor cooking spaces, demonstrations, a judging class and more. View all ticket options here. - Great American River Run
May 27, 2023
Set a goal and make it happen, whether it’s running a 5k, 10k or a half-marathon. Not into running? Come to cheer on the racers. With a course that begins on Beale Street and progresses past some of Memphis' most beloved downtown landmarks, the Great American River Run is a memorable experience whether you run, walk or cheer! -
Memphis In May International Salute To Malaysia
May 2023
You know about the concerts and competitions, but did you know that Memphis in May was designed as a cultural exchange between the city and a different honored country every year? This year's honored country is Malaysia, so check back for a schedule of exhibits, luncheons, lectures and other activities connecting Memphians and visitors with speakers, artists and celebrities from the honored country.
Mid-South Pride Parade & Festival
June 1-4, 2023
The Memphis Pride Parade is the most colorful and exciting celebration ever to roll down Beale Street.
Bluff City Balloon Jamboree
June 2023
Hot air balloon displays, rides and a nighttime balloon glow, plus carnival-style attractions, arts and crafts and live music at Shelby Farms Park.
JUNETEENTH
June 2023
Come together with vendors, entertainment, food and fun in Health Sciences Park.
Elvis Week
August 10-16, 2023
Thousands of fans from around the world come together to celebrate Elvis' life and career. The week-long festival brings live music performances, a 5k run, the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest and more.
Delta Fair & Music Festival
September 1-10, 2023
Carnival rides, games, live music and delicious fair food come together for the annual Delta Fair & Music Festival at the Agricenter.
Southern Heritage Classic Weekend
September 7-9, 2023
Thousands cheer on this showdown between Tennessee State University and University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Come for the game and experience the lively tailgate parties, special events and live music.
Germantown Festival
September 2023
Bring the whole family to this free weekend festival in Germantown featuring artisans, kiddie rides, games, live music, a “Weenie Dog Race” and a car show.
Cooper-Young Festival
September 2023
The trendy Cooper-Young neighborhood transforms into an all-out festival with live music, food vendors, maker booths and more.
Mid-South Fair
September 21-October 1, 2023
Count on thrill rides, funnel cakes, live music and family-friendly shows at the Landers Center in Southaven, Mississippi.
Pink Palace Crafts Fair
September 22-24, 2023
Browse creations by 150 artists from around the country at this annual tradition at Audubon Park.
Mempho Music Festival
September 29-October 1, 2023
One of the city’s biggest music events, Mempho is three days of national touring acts and local superstars on stage at Radians Amphitheater at Memphis Botanic Garden.
OCTOBER
Soulsville USA Festival
October 2023
Unfolding around the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, this festival celebrates the musical heritage of Memphis' Soulsville neighborhood.
RiverArts Fest
October 21-22, 2023
Make your way downtown for this annual arts festival where nearly 200 artists from around the U.S. will be showcasing their works.
Indie Memphis Film Festival
October 24-29, 2023
Center yourself in the Overton Square Performing Arts District for this showcase of local films.
