Lantern Festival at Memphis Zoo | select nights Nov 14–Feb 1

In partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, and presented by Truist, Memphis Zoo is proud to announce the inaugural Memphis Zoo Lantern Festival, a one-of-a-kind holiday light experience featuring more than 60 larger-than-life illuminated fixtures. The Memphis Zoo Lantern Festival will transform the Zoo into a dazzling wonderland of color and light. Guests can stroll through glowing pathways, marvel at vibrant animal-shaped lanterns, and capture unforgettable memories beneath radiant displays designed by the world-renowned Tianyu team. Memphis Zoo Lantern Festival is a separate ticketed event.

Enchanted Forest Festival of Trees at the Pink Palace | Nov 15–Dec 28

Is this the oldest holiday display in Memphis? Probably. It's been around since the fifties—definitely has that vintage feel—and now has a home at the Pink Palace along with their annual Festival of Trees tree-decorating display and photos with Santa and singing reindeers. 

Holiday Season + Christmas at Graceland — Nov 20–Jan 11

Blue Christmas? White Christmas? Home For Christmas? Whatever your favorite Elvis Christmas song, you'll love Graceland all lit up for the holidays. Starting with the Holiday Lighting Weekend (concerts, special tours, “flipping the switch”) you can see the historic home decorated as the King intended both inside and out. It's a Memphis holiday event tradition.

Downtown Memphis Tree Lighting | Nov 22

The event will feature a tree lighting ceremony at 4:50 PM, gift shopping from local vendors, free photos with Santa, live music, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, and a variety of activities including crafts, face painting, a photo booth, and more.

Starry Nights at Shelby Farms Park| select nights Nov 28–Jan 3

Starry Nights transforms the park into a sparkling winter wonderland, with 3.5 million twinkling lights, festive displays, and holiday cheer perfect for kids and adults alike. Drive through two miles of dazzling sights from the comfort of your car—or on select walk and bike nights, explore the lights on foot with your leashed pups in tow. 

Holiday Wonders at Memphis Botanic Garden | select nights Nov 28–Dec 30

Step into a world of twinkling lights, cozy moments, and holiday magic at Holiday Wonders at the Garden. The Memphis Botanic Garden transforms into a winter wonderland with glowing trails, themed evenings, and plenty of festive fun for all ages. Whether you’re here for a family outing, a romantic date night, or a night out with friends, every visit promises merry memories waiting around every corner. This year, the wonder expands deeper into the Garden with the debut of Polar Passage, an immersive new experience in The Woodland where glowing trails transport you to a breathtaking holiday realm. Guests can also cozy up by glowing firetables, sip seasonal drinks, and explore added interactive play opportunities. 

The Peabody Tree Lighting at the Peabody Hotel | Nov 28

This annual event kicks off the Christmas season at the “South’s Grand Hotel.” The spirit of the season fills the sounds of Grand Lobby with live jazz classics and Christmas carols, the scent of sweet gingerbread spice and hot chocolate, and warm glow of twinkling lights. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive to light the Peabody Christmas Tree and greet families. Opera Memphis’ Holiday Carolers join the entertainment lineup this year with Victorian carolers singing holiday classics.

Winter Wonderland at Children’s Museum of Memphis | Nov 29-Jan 4

Icy, snowy weather is the forecast for CMOM until January 4. Blistering winds have blown Winter Wonderland into every area of the museum, tossing fun like snow. Climb into a life-sized snow globe and strike a picture-perfect pose. Or take your picture making the perfect ski jump off the ramp. The sights and sounds of winter are everywhere – including Role Play Theater spotlight Nutcracker music and dance props. Don’t be surprised to hear guest musicians strolling through the museum, sharing their talents and familiar holiday tunes.

Overton Square Tree Lighting | Dec 6

The Square will be filled with snow as we welcome Santa Claus, eat holiday treats, and listen to great music!

More Memphis Holiday Events

Memphis and the Mid-South Holiday Parades

Grab your crew, cozy sweaters, blankets, and lawn chairs because it's holiday parade season, baby! That blog has a list of Memphis and Mid-South Christmas parades including dates, times, and routes for 2025.

A Tuna Christmas at Circuit Playhouse | November 21-Dec 21

Set in the fictional town of Tuna, Texas, the annual Christmas Yard Display Contest is about to commence. Vera Carp is gearing up to win for the 15th consecutive year until a mysterious “Christmas Phantom” has their sights on disrupting the contest by vandalizing displays. Joe Bob has the desire to produce A Christmas Carol but battles the threats of the power being cut from the electric company. Along with other story arcs being narrated from a 275-watt station, this show is notable for only having 2 actors portraying more than 20 characters of different genders and ages offering a satirical look at small-town life.

A Rockin’ Memphis Christmas Concert at Graceland Soundstage | Nov 21

A rockin' holiday tribute to The Killer, The Man in Black, The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, and The Father of Rockabilly, this stellar show will consist of tributes to Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Carl Perkins. Join the excitement as they rip up the stage in a holiday show like you have never seen before with an array of classic hits and heartwarming holiday songs in an unmistakable rockabilly style.

NutRemix at Cannon Center | Nov 21-Nov 23

New Ballet’s NutRemix™ is an electrifying and innovative production at The Cannon Center for the Performing Arts that takes the entire family on a captivating journey with a story set on Memphis’ iconic Beale Street. Pulling elements from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, at the heart of NutRemix lies New Ballet’s mission: pushing artistic horizons and making dance accessible to all.

Holiday Kick-Off at Saddle Creek | Nov 23

Kick off the holiday season at Saddle Creek! Join us for an outdoor screening of The Polar Express, Santa photos, and train rides. Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken will be open late with a select menu including hot chocolate and other tasty treats. Bring your own chairs and blankets!

If Scrooge Was A Brother at Hattiloo Theatre | Nov 28-Dec 20

It’s Christmas Eve and Eb Scroo is seeking to snuff out the season’s cheer by demanding all debts owed him be satisfied before nightfall. Facing imprisonment, a Christmas without presents and a feast, the residents are desperate. In this urban spin of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the ghosts and characters are icons of Black culture.

Dr. Suess’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas at Graceland Soundstage | Nov 29

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a celebration of the holiday spirit no home should be without! Why is the Grinch such a grouch? No one seems to know, until little Cindy Lou Who takes matters into her own hands and turns both Whoville and the Grinch’s world upside down, inside out and funny side up in her search for the true meaning of Christmas.

Surfin’ Santa at Mary’s BOTE | Dec 1-31

Escape the dreary December blues through a tropical christmas paradise pop up at Mary's BOTE! The tiki drinks you love, with a holiday twist. What better present could you ask for? 

Holiday Dinner & Music Cruise | Dec 4-20

All aboard the Christmas Dinner Cruise for a beautiful Christmas experience. Ticket prices include a 2-hour Cruise with Dinner down the Mississippi River and the live Blues & Jazz Band for your entertainment. This is a great way to celebrate the Holidays with your Significant Other, Friends, Family, or Co-Workers!

Holi-date Night at Memphis Botanic Garden (21+) | Dec 4

Enjoy this magical season's wonder and merriment with your special someone! Wander hand-in-hand through a dazzling display of new and expanded lights, savor the warmth of making sweet and savory s'mores by a cozy campfire, and craft a miniature grapevine or greenery wreath to cherish. Celebrate the joy of togetherness as you jingle and mingle, raising a glass, and delighting in small bites. Cheers to a season filled with wonder and connection!  

Mid-South Toy Fest at The Great Hall & Conference Center | December 6 

Step into MidSouth Toy Fest, a celebration of the toys that have captured our imaginations for generations. Whether you're a dedicated collector or simply looking to revisit the fun of your childhood, this event brings it all together under one roof! Browse the latest releases from top toy brands, including action figures, comics, Funko Pops, games, and more! A great mix of options for fans of all ages.

Memphis Medical District Collaborative Holiday Market at Ugly Art Co. | Dec 7

Celebrate the holidays with the MMDC! Shop dozens of local Memphis vendors while enjoying live music from the Grizzlies Prep Boys Choir and tunes by DJ Michael Adrian Davis. Fuel your shopping with food from Kinfolk ("Memphis’ Little Breakfast Joint"), a holiday cocktail from Bar Limina, and coffee and hot chocolate from Boycott Coffee. Plus, get your market purchases wrapped for free at the complimentary gift-wrapping station!

Wreath Making Workshop with Midtown Bramble & Bloom at Brooks Museum of Art | Dec 7

In this workshop, you'll learn the techniques of crafting a wreath using fresh, fragrant evergreen branches. Choose from a curated selection of ribbons, baubles, and decorative elements to personalize your creation and add a unique touch to your holiday décor. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned crafter, this hands-on class is perfect for anyone looking to get creative and add a personal, handmade touch to their seasonal decorations. All materials will be provided, and you'll leave with a stunning wreath to hang at home!

The Nutcracker at the Orpheum Theatre | Dec 12-14

Young Clara learns that the world is much larger and more splendid than she ever imagined after an unexpected adventure takes her to a fantasy world of dueling mice, magic Christmas trees, candy dreams, and beautiful dance. Featuring live music from the Memphis Symphony Orchestra playing the iconic Tchaikovsky score and exquisite sets and costumes, this show brings people together through an uplifting classic tale told in a new way.

Christmas Ghost and Tea: A Victoria Tradition at Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum | Dec 13

In 19th century England, it was a Christmas tradition to huddle around the fire with the family and spin yarns of spirits and spooks while celebrating the holiday season. Woodruff-Fontaine believes nothing says "Victorian Era" like an afternoon tea and nothing says "Victorian Christmas" like listening to tales of ghostly encounters. To top off the evening's Victorian Yuletide festivities, guests will be treated to a stroll of the Woodruff Fontaine mansion, bedecked in her most splendid Christmas grandeur and finery.

Germantown Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Concert at GPAC | Dec 13

Join in the magic of winter — opening with “Let it Snow,” this program will travel through musical celebrations of sleigh rides, ice skating, and other seasonal amusements.  To further revel in the magic of winter, the Germantown Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to welcome Dr. Armee Hong to perform Vivaldi’s “Winter” violin concerto from The Four Seasons.

One Man’s Christmas Carol at Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum | Dec 18

Adapted and performed by local actor Marques W. Brown, this unique take on the traditional Dickensian Christmas tale is guaranteed to touch your heart and ignite your holiday spirit. A very personal and heartfelt performance, delivered in a classic style and environment, this family-friendly act is sure to set the mood for a joyful holiday season!

Candlelight: Holiday Special ft. “The Nutcracker” and more at Overton Chapel | Dec 20

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Memphis. Get your tickets now to discover the music of “The Nutcracker” and More at Overton Chapel under the gentle glow of candlelight.

Jingle Jam at Renasant Convention Center | Dec 20

Celebrate the holidays with a special performance from Jeezy.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings at Brooks Museum of Art | Dec 21

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Memphis. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Christmas Carols on Strings at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art under the gentle glow of candlelight.

World Ballet Company: Nutcracker at Cannon Center | Dec 24

Celebrate the season with The Nutcracker, a heartwarming ballet that brings dreams into reality for audiences of all ages. Join Marie on Christmas Eve as her beloved Nutcracker springs to life, leading her on a wondrous journey filled with swirling snowflakes, mischievous mice, and a visit to the dazzling Kingdom of Sweets. Featuring 40 world-class dancers, over 150 sparkling hand-sewn costumes, and breathtaking hand-crafted sets, World Ballet Company’s enchanting production is the perfect way to make holiday memories together. Gather the whole family and step into a world where toys come alive, magic fills the air, and every moment is touched with holiday wonder!