25+ Exciting Things To Do In July In Memphis

Things are heating up this month in Memphis!

Whether you're outside this month or trying to keep it cool and lowkey, here are lots of fun ways to enjoy July! 

 

Celebrate the 4th of July in Memphis and the Mid-South

Cue the sparklers ‘cause it’s time to celebrate! Between electrifying firework displays, mouth-watering cookouts, and exciting parades, we’ve got your 4th of July plans covered.

 

Go down a waterslide at the Summer Splash at Overton Park

Need to beat the heat? On July 6, Overton Park Conservancy is popping up waterslides on the Greensward for some free summer fun so bring the kids and cool off.

mission astronaut

Immerse yourself in astronaut training at MoSH’s Mission: Astronaut

Mission: Astronaut is an interactive journey designed to give visitors a taste of life as an astronaut. Each section presents tasks that require an astronaut’s mindset to solve, using skills like engineering, physics, teamwork, and most importantly for young minds – fun! The exhibit runs now til September 2

summer jam

Catch a vibe at Summer Jam Fest

It's one of the biggest Jam Fests in the Mid South on July 6. Enjoy great energy, food, drinks, and music from artists "PC Band", JLake, Courtney Little, Bird Williams, Johnny Kroon, Zsa Davis, Mr. Lamar, Ashley AVE, Freddie D, Karma, & performing live, host Prince Djae.

splash pad
Alex Shansky

Beat the heat at a splash park in Memphis

Put on your suit, grab a towel and cool off at one of Memphis's splash parks, splash pads, or water playgrounds.

theater lineup

Head to the amphitheater for the Goo Goo Dolls at Live at the Garden

The iconic 90s rock band, Goo Goo Dolls, is electrifying the stage on July 12. There are only pit and lawn tickets available, so hurry and grab those tickets!

 

Take a sip or two at Memphis Summer Cocktail Festival

This the hottest festival of the summer with a totally rad twist, featuring seasonal 

sips, tasty eats, and ALL the throwback vibes. Your ticket includes 12 fun-size summer cocktails, plus access to all the fun and entertainment on July 12.

 

Experience a bit of Texas culture with That Mexican OT

That Mexican OT has been taking over the rap music scene with singles featuring greats such as Moneybagg Yo, Paul Wall, and many more. See him live at Minglewood Hall on July 17.

 

Grab your best buds for Memphis Botanic Garden’s Flower Happy Hour

On July 18, you’ll get to try your hand at flower arranging with some of Memphis’ favorite florists! You’ll learn new design techniques and special tricks as you build an arrangement to take home. All supplies are provided including flowers and your container, but please bring your own pruners or floral shears. Bring your own beverages & snacks to enjoy while creating! This event is for adults only 21+.

 

Relive those rockin’ times at the screening of Revival69:  The Concert That Rocked The World

John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Little Richard, The Doors, Alice Cooper, and other legendary musicians performed at the 1969 Toronto Rock and Roll Revival music festival. This behind-the-scenes look at “the second most important event in rock and roll history” culminates in John Lennon’s first public performance with The Plastic Ono Band, triggering his decision to leave The Beatles on July 25. This is the perfect way to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Rock ‘n Roll!

karaoke idol

Sing your heart out at Karaoke Idol

Mid-South Pride is thrilled to announce the return of the much-anticipated Karaoke Idol on July 12! This isn’t just any karaoke contest; it’s a celebration of voices, a testament to the vibrant spirit of our community, and a dynamic platform where your talent shines as brightly as your pride.

sunset skate
Julian Harper

Find your balance and roll out at Sunset Skate

Groove and glide down Riverside Drive at free skate nights on the last Thursday of July. Perfect your skate dance moves with lessons from Step & Skate, cruise to the DJ or enjoy the local food vendors. Free 30-minute skate rentals provided by Cordova Skating Center are first come first served. Protective gear is not provided, please bring your own pads, wrist guards or helmets. 

 

Celebrate Asian culture at the 2nd annual Asian Night Market

The Asian Night Market on July 20 at Tiger Lane is more than just an event; it's a community gathering that celebrates diversity, fosters understanding, and indulges the senses. It's a place where food, art, and performance come together to create unforgettable memories.

mamma mia musical

Sing Mamma Mia, Here I Go Again at the smash hit musical

For nearly 25 years, people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story, and the music that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel-good show at The Orpheum Theatre from July 23-28. Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship, and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited decades ago.

 

Go home with a new pup at Whet Thursday: Picnic & Puppies

If you are in search of a new companion, get out on July 25 and meet the pups, play with them, and see if you find one that is a good fit for you and your family. Bring your picnic dinner or you can purchase your picnic from the Millie’s Garden Salads food truck. Enjoy the calming jazz music and the sunset on the Bluff. The Tipsy Tumbler and MemPops will be on-hand as well.

 

Cool off at some of the best dessert shops in Memphis

Summertime is here and a cold treat is a must-have during the hottest days in July. Check out these sweet spots for a super cool treat!

 

Listen to country music for free with Kix on Beale

Grab your boots and head down to Beale Street for this free music series. There will be three shows on Thursdays this month celebrating 20 years of Kix on Beale.

 

End summer with a bang at the Back-to-School Block Party

Get ready to go back to school with the Memphis Public Libraries South Branch. They’ll have face painting, balloon animals, Mister Softee ice cream, and more on July 27! A limited number of free school supply packs will also be available.

Harry Potter birthday

Celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday with all things magical at Soul & Spirits

Costumes are encouraged for this magical celebration on July 31. Soul & Spirits will be releasing 7 new beers, yes 7 new Harry Potter themed beers, HP themed trivia, English treats and many more surprises! 

carmen jones

Witness the whirlwind love story of Carmen Jones

In a Southern town during World War II, an army corporal named Joe is stationed near a parachute factory where Carmen Jones is employed. Fickle and flirtatious, Carmen manages to steal Joe away from his fiancée, and the army as well, and they run off to Chicago together. You’ll have to head to Hattiloo Theatre from July 26-August 18 to find out the rest.

grand cabernet tasting

Indulge in some of the best Cabernets with fellow wine enthusiasts 

On July 10, join the Memphis Wine Society for an unforgettable evening at your art museum! The Grand Cabernet Tasting will feature a multitude of Cabernets crafted in the traditional style. Experience the elegance and classic charm of these exceptional wines, with a special focus on California's finest. This fun and sophisticated event is a perfect blend of wine and community. 

Christmas in July

Deck the halls with Christmas in July on Broad Ave

Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas in July! The shops of Broad Ave will be celebrating Christmas on July 5 with specialty themed products, treats, and discounts!

 

Cheer on Memphis 901 FC in their 6th season

The Beale Street boys will be playing on July 27. To make the most out of your game-day experience. Join the Bluff City Mafia, a crew of independent supporters, at The Brass Door around the corner from AutoZone Park. After enjoying a few pints of Guinness, it’s time for the march to the match.

 

Grab your paddles for a Pickleball Pop-Up at Wiseacre

Enjoy some food and beer with friends, family and two days of Pickleball in the back lot of Wiseacre downtown, July 13-14. Both days will kick off with a pickleball party at noon, and feature 4 premium pickleball courts along with music, food, drinks and (new this year) local vendors on site. Don’t forget they also have beginner clinics if you are new to the game!

 

Spend Sunday Funday at Sunset Jazz with Stephen M. Lee

Grab your lawn chair and a snack & a drink from one of the food trucks and sit down for an evening of great entertainment and door prizes on July 14. 

odd and curious market

Find the oddest of oddities at the Memphis Oddity & Curiosity Market

Held at one of the greatest venues in town, Hi Tone! Head out to shop some interesting vendors, eat some of Hi Tone’s AMAZING bar food, and grab a beer (or two) on July 27. 

 

Pick up at page turner at DeMoir Books & Things

The bookstore offers a diverse selection of genres, including works by local authors, Black romance novels, LGBTQ+ stories, and classics such as Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God.

 

Take yourself out to the ball game with the Memphis Redbirds

It's easy to forget that you're in the middle of a city during a Redbird's game this month. The stadium is breezy and quiet, the food is awesome (they have barbecue nachos!), and relatively inexpensive with in-field tickets starting at $18. Be sure to check out special promotions and themed game days.

 

Soar through the thrilling adventure of Catch Me If You Can

Based on the life of Frank Abagnale Jr., this musical jet sets audiences on a high-flying wild ride through the life of a young con artist who poses as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer, all while being pursued by the FBI. Catch Me If You Can is a thrilling musical adventure that is not to be missed showing now til July 14.

About the Author

Hey there! I’m Tyra Johnson, writer and content creator for the I Love Memphis Blog. I'm a Memphis native and after a few years away, I'm back home. I love art, good eats, and live music. Join me in reclaiming my passion for Memphis, mane.

Why do you love Memphis:

Memphis has so much personality-- the people, food, music-- it just all feels good! We have so much to be proud of when speaking about the city. Also, I'm big on memories, and most of my core memories involve Memphis.

What's on your Memphis playlist?

Stay Fly by Three 6 Mafia. It's the PERFECT hype song!

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Ms. IE

I’m so glad to see so many positive things being showcased in Memphis. 
Much Respect,

Ms. IE 

The Message Songwriting Singer

🧡🎶🧡

July 13, 2024 11:03pm