50 Years of Beauty, Art, and Blooms: The Dixon Turns 50 in 2026
If you’ve ever wandered through 17 acres of manicured gardens on a crisp Memphis morning, paused in front of a French Impressionist masterpiece, or toasted to a summer night at Art on the Rocks then you already know what the Dixon means to this city. This year, Dixon Gallery and Gardens turns 50, and Memphis is celebrating in a big way.
If you’ve ever wandered through 17 acres of manicured gardens on a crisp Memphis morning, paused in front of a French Impressionist masterpiece, or toasted to a summer night at Art on the Rocks then you already know what the Dixon means to this city. This year, Dixon Gallery and Gardens turns 50, and Memphis is celebrating in a big way.
Founded in 1976 by Hugo and Margaret Dixon, the museum has grown from a private estate into one of Memphis’ most beloved cultural landmarks and its the largest free art museum.
650,000 Reasons to Visit the Garden This Spring
650,000 Reasons to Visit the Garden This Spring
Let’s start with the showstopper: this spring, more than 650,000 tulips will blanket the Dixon’s grounds which is more than three times the usual number. The display will feature several varieties, including a tulip bulb specifically named after the Dixon itself. Whether you’re a Memphis native or a first-time visitor, this is a bloom you won’t want to miss. The tulips are starting to bloom now but expect it to start exploring in color mid to late March.
A Full Year of Unforgettable Exhibitions
The anniversary year kicked off on January 25, the exact date the Dixon opened its doors in 1976, with the final chapter of its celebrated Black Artists in America series. This multi-year project closes with a powerful look at Black artists, including several from Memphis, during the transformative era from the bicentennial to September 11, 2001. The exhibit is on display through March 29. Catch a sneak peek inside below:
Spring brings the Memphis Flower Show, inspired by Mary Sims: A Retrospective. This show is a deep-dive into the work of a beloved local artist featuring more than sixty pieces from private collections and museums. In June, the Dixon presents Café Society: Art and Sociability in Paris, 1855–1914, an internationally touring exhibition years in the making, exploring how Parisian café culture shaped the art world.
The year closes with An Investment in Pleasure: Fifty Years of the Dixon Gallery and Gardens Collection, a sweeping, celebratory look at how the museum’s collection came to be. Throughout the year, the Mallory/Wurtzburger galleries will spotlight local and regional artists, and the family-friendly Meet the Dixons experience invites visitors of all ages to connect with the history of the museum.
Celebrate All Year Long
Celebrate All Year Long
The Dixon’s event calendar is packed with anniversary flair. Mark your calendar for the Anniversary Garden Party on March 28, a ticketed spring soirée inspired by Margaret Dixon’s love of outdoor entertaining, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the gardens.
Beloved annual events like Women in the Arts, Art on the Rocks, Art on Fire, and Christmas Fiesta will all carry a special anniversary spirit this year. The Dixon also wants to hear from you! Whether you met Margaret and Hugo Dixon, got married in the gardens, or visited for the very first time last week, share your Dixon story at dixon.org/dixon-stories.
A Memphis Institution Worth Celebrating
In a year full of big moments for Memphis arts and culture, the Dixon’s 50th anniversary stands out as a genuine landmark. This is a place that has welcomed generations of Memphians through its gates, hosted first dates and wedding ceremonies, sparked a love of art in children who grew up to bring their own children back, and offered the entire community access to world-class beauty.
For more information about the Dixon’s 50th anniversary, visit dixon50.org.
GO THERE:
Dixon Gallery and Gardens
4339 Park Avenue
Memphis, TN 38117
HOURS:
- Tuesday - Friday: 10 am - 5 pm
- Third Thursdays: 10 am - 8 pm
- Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm
- Sunday: 1 - 5 pm
- Museum & Gardens Closed Mondays
About the Author
Oneata Ellen Windler
Thank you for opening Dixon Gardens to those who cannot afford even a small fee.
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