35+ Things to Do in Memphis This May 2026
Your month-by-month guide to festivals, live music, food events, and more in the 901.
Your month-by-month guide to festivals, live music, food events, and more in the 901.
May in Memphis doesn't ease into summer. It goes full throttle. Between barbecue smoke rolling through Liberty Park, fashion week at the Brooks, fireworks over AutoZone Park, and roller skates on the riverfront, your weekends are spoken for. Here's everything worth showing up for.
Have an event you'd like to promote? Submit it to the blog's calendar!
Of course this guide doesn't account for every single thing happening in Memphis this month. For even more events, consult these guides we update weekly:
- Huge List of 2026 Memphis Events, Festivals, and Shows
- Check out where you can find live music (updated monthly)
- The weekend guide is updated each week with exciting things to do on Friday-Sunday
- For even more events, just scroll though the blog's calendar.
Experience Memphis Gardens
May 1 - June 14 | Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays
The 4th annual Experience Memphis Gardens Tours runs all May thru June 14 with the signature Cooper-Young Garden Walk, May 16-17, featuring over 100 gardens, speakers, musicians and garden vendors, throughout the neighborhood. The 2026 City Wide Garden Walk is a “must attend” 6 week summer garden event for garden lovers across the Mid-South and beyond. Visitors will tour public/private gardens, business gardens, community gardens, cut flower farms, aquaponics, and a railroad garden, to name a few. And you can do it all for free. Read our blog on what to expect with Experience Memphis Gardens.
RiverBeat Music Fest
May 1-3
The Red Clay Strays, Wu-Tang Clan and Dave Matthews Band headline the third annual RiverBeat Music Festival, returning to the riverfront at Tom Lee Park. Additional artists taking the stage include Lord Huron, Ice Cube, T-Pain, Salt-n-Pepa, Marshmello and St. Vincent. This year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable three-day experience from ferris wheels to fireworks and everything in between.
Memphis Redbirds at AutoZone Park
May 1-3, 12-17
Memphis Redbirds at AutoZone Park Multiple Dates in May The Redbirds welcome the Indianapolis Indians (May 1–3) and Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (May 12–17) for two homestands packed with themed nights and giveaways. Highlights include Snoopy's Haunted Homers for a Halfway to Halloween celebration (May 1), a Dos de Mayo party with $5 margaritas, a live mariachi band, and a jersey giveaway (May 2), and Star Wars Day with character meet-and-greets and light swords for the first 500 kids (May 3). The Jumbo Shrimp series features the return of the Memphis BBQ Nachos identity with an oven mitt giveaway (May 16), postgame fireworks, a Hometown Heroes salute (May 17), and Fiesta Fridays throughout.
Don't miss these promos:
- May 1: Bark in the Park — bring your pup to the ballpark
- May 2: Dos de Mayo jersey giveaway (first 1,500 fans)
- May 3: Star Wars Day — light swords for the first 500 kids
- May 16: BBQ Nacho Oven Mitt giveaway (first 1,500 fans) + postgame fireworks
- Sundays: Brunch with bottomless mimosas (21+) and kids run the bases
- elect dates: Heavenly Hot Dog Buffet and Chicken Wing Buffet available
Season-long Ballpark Passes start at just $99, or grab 901 Tickets for $9.01 per game in Section 116.
Chalkfest
May 2 | 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Join local artists and transform Brooks Museum’s plaza turns sidewalks into masterpieces. Create your own chalk masterpiece, dance to music or hit the food vendors. Arists of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to help transform the grounds. Free to attend!
Jesus Christ Superstar
Now – May 17 | 8 p.m. (Sundays at 2 p.m.)
Playhouse on the Square presents the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice rock opera telling the story of Jesus' final week through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Set amid the political turmoil of Jerusalem, the show explores the complexities between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, and the disciples as popularity rises and anxiety over the consequences grows. Visit playhouseonthesquare.org for tickets.
Memphis Symphony Orchestra: AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY ORCHESTRAL CELEBRATION
May 2 | 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Music Director Robert Moody and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra celebrate America's 250th birthday at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts with a vibrant program featuring Ives' Variations on America, Bernstein's Suite from Candide, a stirring rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing, and more joined by pianist Jeffrey Biegel and the Memphis Symphony Chorus.
Memphis Art & Fashion Week
May 4 - 9 | Events & Times Vary
Memphis Art and Fashion Week takes over the Brooks Museum and beyond for five days of runway shows, designer conversations, and citywide style. The week opens with a Met Gala Watch Party (May 5), builds through a Fashion High Tea (May 6) and an Art & Aperitifs evening with designer Michael Ngo, stylist Joey Thao, and jeweler Kyle Chan (May 7), and peaks with the marquee Runway at the Museum show (May 8). Families can join in on Super Saturday (May 9) with hands-on design activities for kids and teens.
Weekly Movie Nights in Overton Square
Every Thursday | 7 p.m.
Overton Square Movie Nights continue in May. Head to the Courtyard for a free movie night featuring screenings this month that include In The Heights, Challengers, A League of Their Own and Zootopia 2. Bring your picnic blankets and folding chairs to enjoy this free, fun, and relaxing evening of cinema under the stars.
Peabody Rooftop Parties
Every Thursday | 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.
The rooftop parties are in full swing in May. For more than 80 years, the historic downtown hotel spends the spring and summer hosting throw-downs every week. Peabody Rooftop Parties are $15. Tickets will be available to purchase at the door of the event. They have drinks and food for sale. VIP seating tickets are available for $40 and are available on a first come, first served basis. The VIP area offers an assortment of apps from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
47th Blues Music Awards
May 7 | 6 p.m.
The Blues Foundation is Memphis-based, but world-renowned organization dedicated to preserving blues music history, celebrating recording and performance excellence, supporting blues education and ensuring the future of this uniquely American art form. Located at the Renasant Convention Center, the 47th Blues Music Awards brings together Blues performers, industry representatives and fans from all over the world to celebrate the best in Blues recordings and performances from the previous year.
Memphis Greek Festival
May 8-9 | 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
The 67th Annual Memphis Greek Festival is hosted by the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. Indulge in authentic Greek cuisine, immerse yourself in traditional music and dance, and connect with the local Greek community. With several activities for the entire family, plan to spend the day with us to celebrate heritage, tradition, and community. OPA!
Memphis Home and Lifestyle Expo
May 8-10 | Times Vary
Browse show-only deals, live product demos, and exciting giveaways at the Agricenter International — all under one roof. Meet top contractors, designers, and remodelers, and get inspired for your next home project. Friday 12–6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission.
Primary Trust
May 8 - 31 | 8 p.m. (Sundays at 2 p.m.)
The Circuit Playhouse presents the 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama by Eboni Booth. When a quiet, routine-loving man named Kenneth loses his bookstore job, he's forced to face a world he's long avoided — and in the process, discovers new friendships, new beginnings, and the courage to start over. Visit playhouseonthesquare.org for tickets.
Puppy Palooza
May 9 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
THE dog event to hit. Bring your pup to Crosstown Concourse for a day of fun. There will be a dog costume contest with prizes, caricature drawings, balloon animals, dog portraits and Amurica Photo Booth. Looking for a pup of your own to love on? Local rescue organizations will be on site with pups looking for new homes.
Dog Adoptions by Local Rescue Organizations.
Manes on Main Festival
May 9 | 1 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Soul and Spirits Brewery annual celebration of lagers. They'll released their beloved What A Mane Smoked Festbier with five other new small batched lagers to try. Food trucks Good Groceries and Ritzies Barbecue will be on site too.
Bluff City Brawl
May 9 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The 3rd annual Bluff City Brawl brings teams from across the country to Walter May Park for a day of Gaelic football, hurling, and camogie. Whether you know the sports or not, come out and watch the action — presented by the Memphis Gaelic Athletic Association and the Irish Network Memphis. Free admission.
Canoes + Cocktails at Shelby Farms Park
Fridays | 6 p.m.
The perfect date night or Friday kickoff with friends — enjoy a guided sunset paddle on the lake at Shelby Farms Park followed by specialty cocktails from Old Dominick, snacks from Feast & Graze, yard games, and music. Reserve a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, or grab a cocktails-only ticket for the party on land. Tickets go fast. 21+.
Art for All Festival
May 9 | 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
The Dixon Gallery & Gardens opens its doors for a free, family-friendly day of creativity featuring performances, hands-on art-making, and a welcoming atmosphere for art lovers and newcomers alike. Free admission.
BRNCHLLA MEMPHIS
May 9 | 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
BRNCHLLA Memphis returns to the gorgeous Overton Park Formal Gardens for an afternoon that hits all the senses. VIP ticket holders get the signature Big Bad Breakfast, while all guests enjoy complimentary bites from local restaurants and caterers, craft cocktails, DJs, and decor that's unmatched. Get your crew together — this one sells out.
Overton Park Shell’s Orion Financial Free Concert Series
May 9, 16, 17, 18, 24, 28
The free concerts at the historic bandshell is a beloved tradition. Sit back in the grass or in your lawn chair and enjoy nights of funk, soul, hip-hop, house music and more. Bring chairs, blankets, coolers, picnics, any of your own food and drink – or enjoy the beer and food for sale. Most shows begin at 7:30 p.m. sharp, but I would get there at least a half-hour early to snag a good spot. (Or an hour if a good spot is really important to you!)
MUSE Creative Gathering
May 11 | 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Take a leap and learn something new at Bar DKDC. This creative gathering pairs four live demonstrations — from content creator Mara in Memphis, DJ Father Dad!, musician Keer, and watercolor artist Nizar Jibrin — with a hands-on vision board collaging session. Watch the artists work, ask questions, then create your own. All materials provided.
World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest
May 13 - 16 | Times vary
The Super Bowl of Swine returns to Liberty Park as the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest takes over Midtown Memphis. Since 1978, teams have been competing for the title of World Champion and a share of more than $150,000 in prize money across categories including whole hog, ribs, shoulder, hot wings, sauce, and anything but pork. New this year: the Open Fire World Championship, bringing 15 international cooking teams together for open-fire competitions headlined by renowned specialist Al Frugoni. Expect a small continent of elaborately decorated tents, the smell of smoke from every direction, and some of the best barbecue on the planet. Single-day, four-day, VIP, and combo tasting packages available.
Love Food Hate Waste Memphis
May 14 | 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Head to Wiseacre Brewing Downtown for a free, family-friendly evening dedicated to fighting food waste. Enjoy a panel discussion on the Memphis food system, food waste trivia with prizes from Project Green Fork, a culinary demo turning kitchen scraps into something delicious, and live music from Jeff Hulett with Jacob Church.
Water Lantern Festival
May 16 | 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Gather at Shelby Farms Park for an evening of food trucks, live music, and one unforgettable lantern launch. Decorate your lantern with a personal message, then release it onto the water at sunset and watch the night light up. Bring a lawn chair, a blanket, and the people you love. Family-friendly and open to all.
Paws in the Park
May 17 | 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Bring the whole pack, two-legged and four, to Shelby Farms for an afternoon of food trucks, vendor booths, a dog costume contest, live music, and a kids zone with face painting, caricature artists, balloon artists, and dog demos. Free and open to all; no tickets required.
Watch What You Eat: Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
May 21 | 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
The Pink Palace Museum's Watch What You Eat series pairs classic films on the Giant Screen with free, locally brewed beer from Hampline Brewing. Doors open at 5:30 for brews and socializing, followed by exclusive pre-show programming and a screening of the adventure sequel that sent Indy in search of the magical Sankara stone. Curated by Holtermonster.
The Great American River Run
May 23 | 7 a.m.
A Memphis Memorial Day Weekend tradition. Half-marathon, 10K & 5K means there’s a race for everyone. Start and finish at AutoZone Park, running along the Mississippi River and throughout downtown Memphis. Everyone who crosses the finish line will receive a medal, race shirt and an invitation to our famous post-run after party with plenty of food … and beer!
Misty Copeland
May 23 | 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Cultural Arts for Everyone (CAFE) presents an afternoon with Misty Copeland — the first African American female Principal Dancer with American Ballet Theatre — at the Cannon Center. The event features a moderated conversation with Copeland, performances by local dance companies, and a screening of her Tribeca-premiered short film FLOWER, a ballet-on-film about a family caregiver navigating housing insecurity. The afternoon closes with an intimate discussion on the future of ballet.
Agave & Ash Festival
May 24 | 2 p.m. –7 p.m.
Tequila, cigars, and culture come together at Shelby Farms Park for the Agave & Ash Festival. Enjoy premium cigar and agave spirit tastings, live music, art, and a sophisticated outdoor atmosphere that celebrates Memphis heritage and craftsmanship. 21+.
Lemon Drop Festival
May 24 | 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Enjoy this outdoor festival at Tom Lee Park with 20+ lemon drop martini flavors, curated cocktails, music, food trucks and a market. Each wristband purchased comes with 10 free lemon drops. 21+ only of course.
Sundresses & Linen
May 24, 2026 | 6 p.m. –11 p.m.
Memphis Botanic Garden sets the scene for this grown and classy Memorial Day weekend tradition hosted by the Sigma Lambda Lambda chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Think good music, great energy, and a beautiful outdoor atmosphere designed for professionals, creatives, and social tastemakers. VIP guests enjoy complimentary cocktails and a buffet. Proceeds fund scholarships, homeless outreach, and community initiatives across Memphis. GA $55–$65; VIP $80–$95. 21+.
Sunset Skate
May 28, 2026 | 6–9 p.m.
Sunset Skate kicks off its first season at the Sunset Canopy in Tom Lee Park. Join Memphis River Parks Partnership for free 30-minute skate rentals from Cordova Skating Center, high-energy DJ sets from the Voice of MSCS (88.5FM), and skate dance lessons with Step & Skate Movement. Opening night is Yeah GLOW! — light up the riverfront with free glow sticks while supplies last. Free and open to all; bring your own protective gear.
Memphis Italian Festival
May 28 - 30 |4 p.m. - 10 p.m., 11 a.m. - 11 a.m.
The Memphis Italian Festival returns to Marquette Park for three days of food, music, and family fun — presented by Holy Rosary Parish. Dig into Italian favorites, compete in bocce, cornhole, and volleyball tournaments, cheer on the grape stomp, explore arts and crafts vendors, and let the kids loose in Luigi Land. Thursday gates open at 4 p.m.; Friday and Saturday at 11 a.m. Kids 10 and under and active military with ID get in free.
Unapologetically Unplugged: An R&B Experience — Summer Edition
May 30, 2026
Celebrate the 6th installment of Memphis' most soulful live music series at Growlers Memphis. Unapologetically Unplugged pairs a curated lineup of standout artists and special guests with a full live band for a night of raw, real R&B — from nostalgic vibes to future-facing sounds. $15 presale; $20 at the door.
Memphis Margarita Festival
May 30 | 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Memphis Margarita Fest is back! Sample 12 margaritas from the city’s top margarita-makers, vote for your favorite, and watch as they crown the ultimate Audience Choice Winner. Your ticket includes entry, tasting samples, live entertainment, and nonstop summer energy. Food will be available for purchase, plus a full cash bar with full-size drinks. This is a 21+ celebration. Proceeds benefit Leadership Memphis and Volunteer Memphis.
Collage Dance Collective: Charlene & The Chocolate Factory
May 31, 2026 | 3 p.m. –6 p.m.
Collage Dance Conservatory's 16th annual student concert brings more than 300 dancers to the Cannon Center stage in a full-scale production spanning ballet, tap, modern, jazz, and West African dance. A Memphis tradition that sells out year after year, this performance showcases a full season of training and the next generation of dancers. Grab tickets early — this one doesn't last.
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