15+ Things to Do in Memphis in January
Memphis isn’t slowing down in January and why should it?
Memphis isn’t slowing down in January and why should it?
From live music and buzzing nightlife to family fun, sports, and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences, the city is alive with things to see and do. Whether you’re out to discover new spots or just vibe with the best of the Bluff City, here’s your guide to the month’s can’t-miss events.
1.Grab your gear and go to a game
Pregame at your favorite bar, then catch a Memphis Grizzlies game (10 home games) and Memphis Tigers Men’s Basketball (3 home games) at FedExForum and Memphis Tigers Women’s Basketball at Elma Roane Fieldhouse (4 home games). Heading downtown for a game? Check out this guide to downtown game day deals.
2. Ditch your Christmas tree at Grind City's Bonfire
Grind City is hosting their annual Christmas Tree Bonfire on January 10 where your tree will be used in Memphis’s biggest bonfire. Bring your Christmas tree and get a free beer on them! Trees can be dropped off in advance.
3. Celebrate Elvis' 91st Birthday at Graceland
Celebrate the King’s birthday in style! Graceland has a run of events from January 7-11 but the main event is proclamation ceremony on the morning of his birthday on January 8 at 8:30 a.m.. Every year, hundreds of people gather on the lawn with a giant cake on display. After the ceremony, you'll cross the street to enjoy cake at Vernon's Steakhouse.
4. Hop Between Beale Clubs for the International Blues Challenge
The International Blues Challenge takes over Beale Street this month, turning the whole strip into one big blues playground. Musicians from all over the world pack the clubs, jam late into the night, and show off their own spin on the blues — right here in the home of it all. If you’ve never gone, this is the year to wander, venue-hop, and soak it all in.
5. See These Can’t-Miss Memphis Concerts in January
Looking for a reason to get out and hear live music this month? Memphis has everything from intimate basement shows and jazz-fusion standouts to Motown tributes, blues legends, bass-heavy DJ sets, and big-energy touring acts. Whether you want something chill, danceable, nostalgic, or totally new, there’s a concert happening that fits the vibe. We pulled together a guide to 10 shows worth catching this month — check it out and start planning your next night out.
6. Go to Meddlesome's Heavy Meddle Fest
The annual Heavy Meddle Fest is back with an awesome lineup of bands at Meddlesome Brewing Co. on January 17. This event is free!
7. Sip and learn at Science of Beer
It’s your chance to explore some of the city’s best beer (plus spirits and wine) all with a fun, science-filled twist. Sip your way through hands-on stations, learn something new along the way, and enjoy a night out that also supports MoSH’s programs, summer camps, STEM workshops, and more for local students. Happening on January 17 at Pink Palace Museum & Mansion.
8. Honor King Day 2026 at the National Civil Rights Museum
King Day at the National Civil Rights Museum is a daylong celebration honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., marking the 40th anniversary of the federal holiday and the museum’s 35th anniversary. Guests can enjoy free admission, extended hours from 8 a.m.–6 p.m., and programming across the expanded outdoor campus, including Founders Park. Highlights include live performances, family-friendly activities, service opportunities such as food and blood drives, community resource booths, storytelling spaces, and local vendors. It’s an opportunity to reflect on Dr. King’s vision of unity, justice, and service while engaging with the community throughout the day.
9. See the Tony-Winning Musical The Outsiders at the Orpheum
The Tony-winning musical The Outsiders hits the Orpheum January 20–25. Adapted from S.E. Hinton’s novel and Francis Ford Coppola’s film, this new production tells the story of Ponyboy, Johnny, and the Greasers as they navigate friendship, family, and identity in 1967 Tulsa. With a dynamic original score by Jamestown Revival and Justin Levine, award-winning choreography, and Tony Award-winning direction, this is a must-see show for anyone who believes there’s still “lots of good in the world.”
10. Shop at Memphis Vintage Market's biggest pop up yet
These markets were hugely popular last year and they're opening 2026 with their biggest market yet. Held at the Agricenter on January 31. There will be 40+ vendors for vintage clothing, jewelry, accessories, home goods, and more. The market is free from noon to 6 p.m. but you can purchase early access tickets.
11. Catch the Memphis Zoo Lantern Festival before it ends
Don’t miss your last chance this month to experience the Memphis Zoo’s dazzling Lantern Festival. Stroll through glowing displays, enjoy vibrant lights and interactive art, and soak in the magic of the season before it closes on February 1.
12. Try a Free Fitness Class Every Saturday at Wiseacre
Kick off your fitness goals for 2026 with the Downtown Workout Series at Wiseacre Brew HQ! Every Saturday at 10 a.m., try a new beginner-friendly class, meet new people, and explore different ways to move your body. Just bring yourself, comfy clothes, and a yoga mat then stick around for Hoppy Hour with 10% off drafts!
13. Keep the momentum: Wellness January at Crosstown Concourse
Keep your fitness streak going with Wellness January at Crosstown Concourse! Every Saturday in January, enjoy free workouts, nutrition talks, healthy dining specials, and film screenings all designed to help you build stronger habits. The month wraps up with the Church Health Crosstown 5K/10K, benefiting Church Health.
14. Still looking for more health and wellness options? Try Memphis Parks!
Memphis Parks regularly offers free exercise classes at community centers across the city. Try a spin class and xtreme hip hop step in Hickory Hill or zumba at Glenview. They also offer senior group fitness classes at Ruth Tate. Create an account and see what's happening near you.
15. New at the Dixon: Bold Art, Black Voices, and the Stories Behind the Gallery
January brings a fresh lineup of must-see exhibitions to the Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Explore Roger Allan Cleaves’ Afrofuturist multiverse in A World on Fire, a vibrant, abstract journey through community, celebration, and imagination. Then dive into Black Artists in America: From the Bicentennial to September 11, the final installment of the Dixon’s series highlighting African American artists from the late 20th century, featuring over 50 works from iconic and postmodern voices. Finally, Meet the Dixons offers a look at the founders themselves, sharing the story behind the museum and gardens that have shaped Memphis art and culture for 50 years. Together, these exhibits offer a rich mix of contemporary vision, historical perspective, and local legacy.
The Dixon celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and will host a free Anniversary Celebration on January 25.
16. Dance the Night Away at Masquerave
MAD Events brings Masquerave to The Cadre Building on January 17 for a night of music, masks, and immersive visuals. DJs Von FERB, Scotty B B2B Delyrius, Andy Chance, and more keep the energy high while projections, lighting, and a full bar set the scene. Dress to express, mask up, and dance until 2 a.m. Tickets start at $15.
That's not all! Check out our events calendar for more events happening each day.
About the Author
Elizabeth Smith
I so appreciate your keeping me informed on what's going on in Memphis. There are so many cool events I'd never know about otherwise. I can feel your passion for Memphis. Thank you for all of your hard work.
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