5 Things to Do in Memphis This Weekend: 5/17 – 5/19

Happy Friday! Here are five events you won't want to miss in Memphis this weekend:

1. Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, Tom Lee Park, Friday and Saturday, all day, $5 – $9 (cash only)

Teams from all over the world have set up camp in Tom Lee Park to compete in this weekend's Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. Head to the park to check out the elaborate tents and live music, but note that you won't be able to eat any of the cooking teams' barbecue unless you know someone on a team (and that person invites you into their tent).

3. Project Motion: House Happening, Woodruff-Fontaine House, Friday – Sunday, 7 p.m. (Fri. and Sat.) and 3 p.m. (Sun.), $25

Project Motion is taking their modern dance company off of the stage and into one of Memphis' finest Victorian homes. Dancers will perform peices inspired by the turn of the century, and tours of the house will end in a big finale and reception.

3. Hope Clayburn's Soul Scrimmage, Poplar Lounge, Friday, 9 p.m., $5

If you haven't seen Hope Clayburn's Soul Scrimmage yet, I'll forgive you, but only if you make a point to go see them tonight. They're one of the most fun bands in Memphis, and you'll love them if you're a fan of funk, jazz, soul and reggae (and the meeting points between).

4. The Shins w/ Ra Ra Riot, Minglewood Hall, Saturday, 8 p.m. $35

Remember when you saw the movie "Garden State" and heard the Shins' smart indie-pop for (probably) the first time? They're still great, they've got a new-ish record out, and they'll be at Minglewood Hall on Saturday night with the equally-good Ra Ra Riot.

5. Hog and Hominy Hoedown, Hog and Hominy, Sunday, 3 p.m., $40

Hog and Hominy's second annual hoedown and bocce ball tournament is happening on Sunday to benefit the Savior Foundation. In addition to the bocce, they'll have live music from the Bluff City Backsliders, food, drinks, a silent auction and square dancing.

If none of these events are your thing, check the blog's calendar for plenty more. No matter what you do this weekend, have a great time, and go Grizz!