30 Fun Events in Memphis this January 2025

Here are ways to make the most of January

Grab your gear and go to a game

Pregame at your favorite bar, then catch a Memphis Grizzlies game and Memphis Tigers Men’s Basketball at FedExForum and Memphis Tigers Women’s Basketball at Elma Roane Fieldhouse. Here are a few of our favorite Memphis bars to watch them during away games.

Tuesday Billiard Tournament
Every Tuesday in January

For something a little more laid-back, why not test your skills at the Tuesday Billiard Tournament at People's on Beale? Grab your cue and compete with other local players at one of Memphis’s best pool halls. It's a great way to spend your evening and meet new people! Free giveaways throughout the night, plus the grand prize winner will take home a People's Champ Trophy and a gift certificate!

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
January 4

The legendary hip-hop group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony hits Memphis for an unforgettable show! If you’re a fan of their smooth rap flow and iconic tracks, this is your chance to see them live in concert.

The Great, Big Christmas Memphis Tree Bonfire
January 4

Grind City is hosting a Christmas Tree Bonfire where your tree will be used in Memphis’s biggest bonfire! Bring your Christmas trees, your family, & friends to roast some s’mores around the fire and hang out in Grind City’s lawn.

 

Uncut: Only in a 901 Barbershop 
January 5

William Gandy Jr. is a proud native Memphian, author, playwright, singer and songwriter. He has written many hit blues songs such as “The Grizzlies Blues” for the Memphis Grizzlies basketball team and “Penny Tiger Blues” for the University of Memphis Tigers. On January 5th 2025 his second movie will debut “UNCUT: Only In a 901 Barbershop” along with a pre-art exhibition by his brother and fellow Memphis native and creative Tonii The Artist. The pre-show art exhibition will feature the music stylings of William Gandy and friends.

Elvis Birthday Celebration
January 8-11

Celebrate the King’s birthday in style! The Elvis Birthday Celebration at Graceland features special events, live music, and, of course, a tribute to Elvis Presley’s legacy. Whether you’re an Elvis superfan or just in town for the day, this event is sure to be memorable.

Opt for a Mocktail 

Whether it's for Dry January or year-round, test out a mocktail this month at one of the many bars and restaurants that have incorporated zero-proof drinks into their menus. Our guide highlights our reader's favorite spots for mocktails.

Bog & Barley Whiskey Pairing Dinner
January 9

For those with a refined palate, the Bog & Barley Whiskey Pairing Dinner is a must-attend event. Enjoy an exclusive dinner featuring expertly paired whiskeys and dishes at one of Memphis’s top restaurants. It’s an evening of gourmet food, fine spirits, and great conversation.

Sabrina Carpenter Night at Growlers 
January 10

Step into the world of Sabrina Carpenter for a night of epic music, dance, and fun! Embrace the vibrant, eclectic style of this themed dance party with our touring DJs spinning your favorite dance hits.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus at Landers Center
January 10-12

This isn’t just any circus. This is The Greatest Show On Earth that blends breathtaking stunts, high-energy performances, and laugh-out-loud moments that keep everyone on the edge of their seats. This all-new Ringling production is for everyone, from kids to grandparents, making it the perfect family entertainment experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the circus, there is no other show like this to create lasting family memories.

Candlelight Concert: Neo-Soul Favorites 
January 10

Looking for something different? The Candlelight Concert Series brings an intimate, candle-lit evening of music to venues around Memphis. This one features neo-soul favorites, with songs by Prince, Childish Gambino, and more. It’s a night of smooth vibes and incredible talent.

Super Saturday - New Year's Cherry Blossoms
January 11

Celebrate the beauty and symbolism of cherry blossoms as you ring in the New Year at this week's Super Saturday! Join us for a fun and creative drop-in art-making session, where you’ll learn about the cultural significance of cherry blossom trees across Asia and explore how different countries celebrate the New Year.

2025 Annual Chili Cook-Off
January 11

Grab your spices and spoons! Love a lot of meat in your chili? What about extra beans? Like to spice things up a bit? There will be a chili for every palate. This is also a great time to catch up on club announcements, hear about our planned budget for the year, and get more information about upcoming activities. This is NOT a members-only event. Everyone is welcome.

Heavy Meddle Fest
January 11

Heavy Meddle Fest is back with an awesome lineup of bands and as always, this event is FREE!

Frozen Cookie Decorating Party
January 12

Sweeten your January with a Frozen-themed cookie decorating party! Grab your kids (or your inner child) and create deliciously decorated cookies while enjoying a magical, winter wonderland atmosphere. A fun, creative way to spend an afternoon.

Mahogany Chamber Music Series: Hope
January 12

For music enthusiasts, the Mahogany Chamber Music Series presents “Hope” this January. This intimate performance will showcase talented musicians in a gorgeous setting, perfect for an evening of culture and inspiration. Each piece in this concert reflects on what Dr. Martin Luther King describes as the “Beloved Community” and how we face difficulties, heal, and push forward toward the vision of a brighter day. Including works by Margaret Bonds, Jake Haggie, Joseph Joubert and two world premieres commissioned by Dr. Armand Hall, conductor.

Kwane Alexander w/ IMAKEMADBEATS: How Sweet the Sound
January 15

Come dance to Kwame Alexander’s melodious narrative of the history of Black music in America, accompanied by the vibrant illustrations of Charly Palmer. The book includes extensive back matter, providing even more context and history about the music and musicians.

2024 Pop Culture in Review Trivia
January 15

For those of us who are chronically online! Take a look back at this year from viral film to diva moments to weird phenomenons to iconic music & reality TV AND MORE!

Martin Lawrence: Y’all Know What It Is Tour
January 17

Get ready to laugh out loud with Martin Lawrence! The comedy legend is bringing his “Y’all Know What It Is” tour to the Landers Center for an unforgettable night of jokes, stories, and all-around good fun.

Science of Beer
January 17

The Science of Beer is an opportunity to taste some of Memphis’s best beer. Most of us are long past our science class days, but they have created a clever way for us to care about science. Join us for this year’s full-proof fundraiser and sample a taste of spirits, beer, and wine–with a side of science. With each round, you can expect a flavorful journey with all proceeds benefitting MoSH programming, summer camps, STEM workshops and more for local students.

Record Swap at Meddlesome Brewing Co
January 18

Calling all vinyl enthusiasts and music lovers! Dig through crates of vinyl and find some hidden gems at this record swap. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newbie looking to start your vinyl journey, this event is the perfect opportunity to trade, browse, and discover hidden gems—all while sipping on signature brews.

Memphis Vintage Market Pop Up
January 18

These guys had a hugely-popular market last month at Crosstown & are having their second pop-up in Memphis at Grind City. Expect REAL vintage!, Affordable finds, A dash of Depop irl, Food & Drink! Beer, sours, ciders, Diamond Dave's Pizza, Las Delicias chips & dip, Live music 12:30-5, and Cozy vibes.

DOLLY DAY at Wiseacre OG!
January 19

Celebrate the birthday of the one and only Dolly Rebecca Parton. ⁠What does this all have to do with beer? Well, here it is. Music, friends, and beer are the trifecta from which merriment (dare we say gemütlichkeit???) are derived. You may even argue that this trio is the only reason humans have made it this far. So, celebrating Dolly birthday is a way for us to keep civilization existing, basically.⁠

American Maestro - Bernstein West Side Story
January 19

American Maestro, conducted by Carl St. Clair, highlights Bernstein’s Slava! and Symphonic Dances from West Side Story. The concert also features the extraordinary pianist Marc Andre Hamelin performing American composer Michael Gandolfi’s Piano Concerto. This dynamic evening showcases the unique power and emotion of American classical music.

King Day 2025 at the National Civil Rights Museum
January 20

Join the community in celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a day of events honoring his contributions to justice, equality, and civil rights. Activities include parades, educational events, and a public service day.

Cirque Kalabanté at GPAC
January 24

A show by Yamoussa Bangoura inspired by daily life in Guinea, Afrique en Cirque shares the beauty, youth, and artistry of African culture. A colorful production beyond its scenery, costumes, and staging, it makes any theater vibrate with energy and represents the strength, agility, and joys of young Africans. Acrobats execute gravity-defying moves and human pyramids, accompanied by the contemporary sounds of Afro-jazz, percussion, and kora—a 21-string instrument used extensively throughout West Africa. Welcome to the universe of Kalabanté Productions, and prepare for an unforgettable journey.

111 Madison Mixology Class 
January 24

Learn the art of crafting delicious cocktails from scratch! explore the history of mixology, master essential techniques, and create something signature.

Sweet Honey In The Rock
January 24

Sweet Honey In The Rock® remains among the most vibrant, versatile and ever relevant musical collectives in music today; both as a performance ensemble and as an ambassadorial African American organization founded on the triumvirate missions of empowerment, education and entertainment.

Rhythm & Rave
January 24

Get your dance shoes on for Rhythm & Rave, Memphis's hottest night of music, dancing, and fun! Featuring the best of house, electronic, and rave music, this event promises an unforgettable night out.

Cadre Prom
January 25

Missing your prom days? Now you don't have to! Get ready for a glamorous night at Cadre Prom, featuring live music, dancing, and more. Whether cocktail attire or tuxedo and prom gowns, come be a kid again at the Cadre! We will have crowned winners for "best dressed" by surprise judges! Each ticket gets: General admission, open bar: cocktails/wine/beer, light appetizers, and parking at 193 Madison Ave Garage.

Marcella Simien ft. Infinity Stairs & Talibah Safiya
January 25

Enjoy a night of live music at this special performance featuring Marcella Simien, Infinity Stairs, and Talibah Safiya. With a mix of Southern sounds and soul, this event will have something for every music lover.

Harlem Globetrotters at Landers Center
January 26

Bring the whole family to see the Harlem Globetrotters in action! Watch the world-famous basketball team show off their skills, comedy, and basketball tricks for an exciting and fun-filled experience.

Collage Dance Presents: RISE 2025
January 31 - February 2

Collage Dance presents “RISE 2025,” a beautiful blend of contemporary and classical dance, showcasing talented dancers in an inspiring performance that celebrates the art of movement. The Our winter performance also features Kevin Thomas’s hallmark ballet Rise, like never seen before, with live music from the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, new costumes and surprise guests. Set to a dramatic musical arrangement of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final speech featuring professional company artists performing alongside budding dancers, Rise is both a reflection of what we have overcome and a bold envisioning of where we go from here.