Coming to Memphis
Rock 'n' Roll when you step into the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum!
If there is one thing all Memphis travelers can agree on, it's that the city is festive, and this guide attempts to point you in the right direction for the best annual events this Tennessee city has to offer. Whether it is for music, food, or history there is an event for it Memphis. Here's a quick guide to a year's worth of Memphis excitement.
Memphis in May
On a more upbeat note, the entirety of May is a month of celebration throughout all of Memphis. Each week has a particular theme, with big draw events scheduled for a few days at a time. But no matter when you visit during May, you are still sure to experience a lot of fun local festivities and high spirits. More specific details on the more popular events will be described below.
The Beale Street Music Festival
As the largest music festival in Memphis, Beale Street really comes together during this event. Over 50 performers will perform to packed crowds throughout the Tom Lee Park and other Memphis hotspots. A full range of musical genres is covered during this festival as well, including classic 1960's rock, hardcore hip-hop, pop artists, and blues legends. The Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum is dedicated to the history of the Memphis sound, created by the Smithsonian Institution.
World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest
Hungry travelers could do no better than showing up in Memphis during the second week of May. They will be treated to a stunning array of barbecued, slow cooked, grilled, saucy, and tantalizing meats and vegetables. The focus of the event is the contest, of course, which features thousands of dollars in prizes and the title of Worlds Best Barbecue Chef. One popular destination for barbecue enthusiasts is the Blues City Cafe, which has been pleasing patrons with famous recipes for years.
Beale Street 4th of July
There can't be much of a better place to celebrate our great nation's independence than at the birthplace of rock 'n roll and the home of the blues. While on Beale Street, travelers can experience a variety of festivities, including a visually impressive fireworks display and, of course, food and music. The Madison Hotel and Comfort Inn Downtown can both be found within close walking distance of Tome Lee Park, where many of the events are held.
Elvis Week
Those who love the music of the King will surely enjoy this week of festivities related to the legend himself in August. All visitors are bound to have a great time, especially with tours like Elvis Presley's Graceland Platinum Experience. Activities, attractions, restaurants, and charitable festivals will be held throughout the week at various locations, but Graceland is always a definite hotspot.
Southern Heritage Classic
The Southern Heritage Classic is a popular event that fans from across the nation keep an eye on during September. Historically black rival teams are pitted against each other during this event that celebrates the cultural diversity and heritage of Memphis. A full parade and the Classic Cheer Challenge are also popular during this time. The game itself takes place at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium.
