There’s no doubt that the city of Memphis knows how to party, and with the new decade comes a host of fun events, exciting festivals and a plethora of things to do in the southern city.
As Memphis increasingly becomes a hot destination for Australian travellers, below is an equally hot list of reasons to make 2020 the year to see it:
World Championship Hot Wing Contest & Festival, April 25
This fantastic food event is a must for those travelling to Memphis and wanting to taste world-class hot wings for themselves. Taking place at Tiger Lane, the event includes a hot wing cooking contest, which sees over 50 teams battle it out for the title of Hot Wing World Champion. The perfect day out for all ages, those in attendance will not only have the chance to eat some of the best chicken wings around, but also enjoy music and live entertainment whilst doing so.
Memphis in May International Festival, May 1 – 31
This year the annual month long celebration will pay homage to the culture and heritage of Ghana through festivals and education events. The celebration includes the Beale Street Music Festival, World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and the Great American River Run.
Beale Street Music Festival, May 1 – 3
Forming part of the Memphis in May celebrations, the Beale Street Music Festival is huge in its own right. The three-day, four-stage festival attracts some of the music industry’s biggest names, and this year will see performances by artists including, The Lumineers, Lil Wayne, Nelly and the Smashing Pumpkins. The event takes place in the iconic Tom Lee Park, which is located along the Mississippi River and in the heart of Downtown Memphis.
Bluff City Jazz Festival, May 21 – 23
Taking place at the Levitt Shell Amphitheatre, the three-day Bluff City Jazz Festival is one of the hottest jazz events of the summer in Memphis. The outdoor festival attracts lovers of the genre from around the world, who gather to kick back and enjoy performances by world-renowned artists and up-and-coming acts within the jazz industry.
Elvis Week 2020, August 8 – 16
A huge event for the city of Memphis, the annual weeklong event pays tribute to the legacy and the life of Elvis Presley. Thousands of fans from around the world gather for live music performances, panel discussions by those who worked with Elvis, a candlelight vigil and to celebrate all the music and movies that made Elvis so famous.
Cooper Young Festival, September 19
Little known outside of locals, the Cooper Young District is one of Memphis’ most iconic neighbourhoods and hosts the annual Cooper Young Festival. Now one of Memphis’ most anticipated outdoor events, the festival attracts thousands who gather across three days to enjoy the arts, music and culture. Explore artisans from around the country, whilst listening to live music and feasting from an array of food options. Afterwards, take a walk around the Cooper Young neighbourhood, which is filled with bohemian coffee shops, vintage clothing stores and antique bookshops.
Memphis Food & Wine Festival, TBC
Proving that there is so much more to the Memphis local food scene than just a barbecue, the Memphis Food & Wine Festival celebrates the diverse culinary excellence that this city offers. Experience both local and international talent, whilst feasting on delicious food and listening to local music under the stars.
River Arts Festival, October 24 – 25
Located in Downtown Memphis, the River Arts Festival celebrates fine arts and local music within the region. The two-day event will host over 200 artists from around the country and will include live artist demonstrations, hands on art activities that are great for all ages.
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