2025 Downtown Memphis Holiday Guide
Here's your guide to all the festive cheer from tree lightings to holiday markets. All are happening in Downtown Memphis 2025.
Here's your guide to all the festive cheer from tree lightings to holiday markets. All are happening in Downtown Memphis 2025.
The holidays are the most magical time of the year in the 901. The weather cools down, downtown sparkles with lights, and our calendars fill up with tree lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, festive concerts, and seasonal celebrations that make the season memorable.
1. Check out the Downtown Memphis Tree Lighting & Market – Saturday, November 22
Kick off the holiday season at the annual Downtown Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony! This Memphis tradition brings the community together for an evening of festive fun. The main tree lighting ceremony happens at 4:50 PM, but make sure to arrive early to enjoy free photos with Santa, shop from local vendors, sip complimentary hot cocoa and cookies. The kids can enjoy crafts, face painting, and a photo booth. This free, family-friendly event is the perfect way to start your holiday celebrations.
2. Get Merry on Main St. – Saturday, November 29
South Main will come alive with holiday spirit at this festive celebration. You can shop at local boutiques and vendor tables (open 12-5 PM), snap photos with Santa, watch the golf cart parade, join in caroling, warm up with hot cocoa, and see a live tree lighting. Local restaurants and bars will be warmed up and ready to serve you your favorite bite or libation. It's 100% a South Main celebration; creative, festive, community-driven and uniquely Memphis.
3. Stroll though South Main and see the lights. – Nightly Through January
The South Main District transforms into a twinkling, colorful wonderland in the evening. Stop by local restaurants and shops to see the magical lights during your visit.
4. Catch a one-of-a-kind show at New Ballet's NutRemix – November 21-23
Experience a uniquely Memphis twist on a holiday classic! NutRemix reimagines Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker with a story set on Memphis' iconic Beale Street. The Memphis Symphony Orchestra and Memphis Jazz Workshop perform a dynamic blend of Duke Ellington, Booker T. and the MG's. The choreography weaves together hip-hop, Memphis Jookin, Spanish dance, and West African dance and drumming, creating a rich cultural celebration that pushes artistic boundaries while honoring Memphis' diverse history. This innovative production makes dance accessible and exciting for the whole family.
5. Experience the Magic of the Mighty Wurlitzer at the Orpheum
Ring in the season at the Orpheum with Tony Thomas on the historic Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, featuring jazzy holiday favorites and sing-alongs. Pre-show fun starts at 6:15 PM, with the concert running 7–8 PM on December 2.
6. Take the whole family or have a date night at Drew and Ellie Holcomb's Neighborly Christmas - Friday, December 5
Celebrate the season with Drew & Ellie Holcomb as they bring their warm, soulful Americana sound to a festive holiday concert in Memphis. Enjoy a mix of Christmas classics, heartfelt originals, and fan favorites in an intimate, joyful evening perfect for family and friends.
7. Sip, Stumble, and Give Back at the Stumbling Santa Holiday Pub Crawl - Saturday, December 6
Join the 21st annual Stumbling Santa pub crawl on December 6, celebrating the season with festive outfits, drinks, and fun across downtown Memphis bars. Bring a new, unwrapped toy or cash donation to support local preschoolers at Porter-Leath while spreading holiday cheer!
8. Journey back to a Christmas with C.S. Lewis - Saturday, December 6
Get lost in a Christmas tale of C.S. Lewis at his home near Oxford, hosting a flock of Americans spending Christmas in England. What follows is a whirlwind of Yuletide tales—curiosity, laughter, warm fuzzies, even a few tears. And along the way, his guests discover how that pivotal night with Tolkien reshaped every Christmas that came after.
9. Enjoy a night of Holiday sounds with Sunday Jazz Jam Holiday Bazaar - Sunday, December 7
Be ready to enjoy an afternoon filled with smooth jazz from seasoned musicians and an atmosphere of history and culture for the soul with Cequita Monique and Friends singing Songs of the Season. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to spend your Sunday afternoon, this event is perfect for all ages but the cost of culture is the same.
10. Take the kids to Breakfast With Santa at the Fire Museum - Saturday, December 13
Enjoy breakfast cooked by firefighters, meet Santa, and explore festive activities including storytelling, face painting, balloon art, and museum tours. With three time slots available, admission ($20 per person) includes attraction access.
11. Attend a classic Holiday event with Ballet Memphis' performance of The Nutcracker- Friday, December 12 - Sunday, December 14
With stunning choreography, dazzling costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score filling the air, The Nutcracker is the perfect holiday escape—whether you’re eight or eighty. Bring the family, bring a friend, or just bring your sense of wonder. Step into a world of twinkling lights, swirling snowflakes, and pure holiday enchantment as you're whisked from a festive Christmas Eve party to the glittering Kingdom of Sweets, where toy soldiers march, mice plot mischief, and the Sugar Plum Fairy reigns in sparkly splendor.
12. Travel to Whoville with Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical - Tuesday, December 16 - Sunday, December 21
Get ready to have your holiday heart grow three sizes as How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical bursts onto the stage in all its wacky, whimsical glory! Dr. Seuss’s classic tale comes to life with colorful sets, larger-than-life characters, and songs so catchy even the Grinch can’t resist a little groove. With laugh-out-loud moments, dazzling costumes, and a ton of Seuss-y spirit, this musical is a holiday treat for kids, grown-ups, and anyone who’s ever felt a little “Grinchy." It’s merry, it’s mischievous, and it’s pure Christmas fun!
13. Listen to the Memphis Symphony Orchestra at Magic of Memphis – Saturday, December 20
Come experience Memphis' most beloved holiday tradition! This spectacular show features the Memphis Symphony Orchestra joined by the Memphis Symphony Chorus and a continuous collage of local performing groups for a non-stop light and music spectacular unlike anything you've seen. Can-caning Santas, interactive sing-alongs, and world-class soloists create a truly magical experience. This concert celebrates everything we love about the holidays with festive music and dazzling visuals. Perfect for a family night out or a fun date night.
14. Get crafty at the Wrap It Up Holiday Wire Wrapping Workshop- Saturday, December 6
Join The Broom Closet Memphis for a joyful afternoon of holiday gift-making in this hands-on wire wrapping workshop led by jewelry artisan Chance, founder of Lucid Delta Art. Whether you're brand new to wire work or looking to elevate your skills, this festive class offers a welcoming space to craft meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifts for the season. You will learn foundational techniques and insider tips as Chance guides you step-by-step through. All supplies are included and this event is 14+!
15. Support local at the Holiday Market in the Medical District
The Medical District joins the holiday festivities with its own charming holiday market featuring local vendors, seasonal treats, and community spirit. This neighborhood celebration offers an intimate space while still delivering plenty of holiday cheer. Support local artisans and small businesses while discovering unique gifts you won't find anywhere else.
16. Get festive cocktails in The Peabody lobby bar
No Memphis holiday season is complete without experiencing the magic of The Peabody during the holidays. You can join in on their tree lighting this year on November 28th. The historic hotel is beautifully decorated for the season, and their bars offer festive cocktails and seasonal drinks in an elegant atmosphere. My favorite is to pop by after an orpheum show or dinner. I always get a rubber duck in my cocktail. No matter if you're meeting friends for happy hour or enjoying a nightcap after holiday shopping, The Peabody's holiday ambiance is unmatched. Catch the famous Peabody Ducks making their daily march at 11 AM and 5 PM while you're there.
17. Check off your gift list with the Downtown Holiday Shopping Guide
Support small businesses this season while finding one-of-a-kind gifts at downtown's beloved boutiques and shops. From handcrafted jewelry to artisan goods, vintage treasures to modern home decor, local merchants offer curated selections you won't find at any mall. Shopping downtown means you're directly supporting your neighbors and strengthening our community.
18. Support local artists at Deck the Walls: A Holiday Celebration of Young Artists
Support Memphis' next generation of artists at Contemporary Arts Memphis' inaugural holiday celebration and fundraiser. This fun evening showcases original artwork created by young artists in CAM's program. Enjoy live performances, a curated food menu, and the chance to take home one-of-a-kind pieces while directly supporting arts education in Memphis. Every ticket and purchase fuels CAM's programs that empower emerging talent and keep creativity thriving in our city. It's the perfect opportunity to find meaningful holiday gifts while investing in the future of Memphis arts.
19. Get cozy at Fire Pit Fridays- First & Third Fridays, November & December
Warm up by the fire and celebrate the season on the riverfront! Memphis River Parks Partnership brings back Fire Pit Fridays with festive treats, holiday tunes, free s'mores, and magical Santa sightings. Each Friday features a unique theme including cocoa and crafts, ugly sweater night, and more. This is perfect for families and couples looking for a fun evening by the water.
20. Spend Christmas morning at the Peabody for their annual brunch
Celebrate Christmas morning in style at The Peabody's legendary holiday brunch. The Grand Ballroom sparkles with holiday cheer as guests enjoy one of Memphis' most lavish dining experiences. This spectacular buffet features hundreds of hot and cold items: made-to-order omelets and waffles, holiday favorites and seasonal sides, a carving station with prime rib and glazed ham, chilled seafood and shellfish, and an elaborate 32-foot dessert table. It's necessary to make reservations in advance, and they book up quickly, so be sure to plan ahead!
21. Get spooky at the Victorian Christmas Tea with Ghost Stories – Saturday, December 13
Experience a unique holiday tradition that combines Christmas cheer with ghost stories! In 19th century England, families gathered around the fire during Christmas to share spooky stories. The Woodruff-Fontaine is bringing this tradition to life. You will start your evening with a proper afternoon tea.. Then gather in the grand ballroom as ancient Christmas legends and ghostly encounters come alive through storytelling. Cap off the night with a stroll through the mansion. This fundraising event benefits the historic Woodruff-Fontaine House. FYI: Tickets are non-refundable and available online only.
22. Get classy with Christmas Tea at Chez Philippe – Select Dates
Experience the timeless elegance of Afternoon Tea with Santa at The Peabody's renowned Chez Philippe restaurant. This beloved holiday tradition features three exquisite courses: warm cranberry scones with clotted cream and preserves, a selection of finely crafted tea sandwiches, and delicate sweet petit fours. A curated selection of fine teas is available, including caffeine-free options for the kids. This will book up quickly during the holiday so make sure to call ahead or book online to secure your preferred date and time.
23. See Santa at the Memphis Holiday Parade on Beale- Saturday, December 13
Ring in the holiday season at the biggest holiday parade in town. Beale Street comes alive with marching bands, steppers, twirlers, elaborate floats, and spectacular sights that capture the magic of the season. This beloved Memphis tradition brings the community together for an afternoon of festive fun and holiday spirit. If you want to be in the parade, applications are now open for interested parade participants! Groups, schools, bands, dance teams, and organizations are encouraged to apply. Whether you're watching from the sidelines or cheering on your favorite performers, the energy and excitement are contagious.
Downtown Memphis offers something for everyone this holiday season. Whether you're a native Memphian looking for new traditions or a visitor experiencing Memphis for the first time, these events and activities will fill your season with joy, community, and holiday magic. Come downtown, bring your favorite people, and discover why Memphis is one of the most magical places to celebrate the holidays.
Hosting a holiday event downtown? Let us know! Submit it to our calendar here. We can put it on this guide.
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