365 Things to Do in Memphis #236: Celebrate 901 Day

Memphis needs its own holiday, don't you think? And if we had one – which we do, as of this year – it should be on Sept. 1. Assignment #236 in the 365 Things to Do in Memphis is to celebrate 901 Day*.

Last year, right around Sept. 1st, my friend Jen S. made this case for having a Memphis-centric holiday:

I think 901 Day should be a local holiday — a day dedicated not only to reflecting on all the great things about Memphis but also on working to make it better. A day free of hating, as Tony Allen might say. Maybe local museums could offer admission discounts to foster cultural appreciation, volunteer organizations could host service opportunities… Neighborhoods could have block parties and open houses. And of course, a citywide day off work would be purely optional.”

It sounded like a really good idea. So this year, Jen and I, along with tons of you, have made it a real thing.

So far, more than 30 events are happening as part of 901 Day. The day will kick off with a free breakfast party (and admission) at the Memphis Botanic Gardens at  8 a.m. and will close with a giant dance party throwdown at Mollie Fontaine's starting at 9 p.m. Between then, there will be volunteer opportunities (like a barn raising), bike rides, a beer debut, special YoLo flavors, cook outs, block parties, live music, bike rides and more.

Take a look at the full list of 901 Day events or sign up to host your own event. Everyone is welcome.

How are you planning to celebrate the very first 901 Day? What events are you most excited about?

*901 Day, for the non-Memphians among us, is a reference to the city's telephone area code.