11 Memphis Events & Happenings: January 2026

As you begin to map out your 2026 calendar, be sure to include these can’t-miss events happening around Memphis. From marathons to sporting events and fundraisers, here’s what you have to look forward to this month. Enjoy — and Happy New Year!

Through January 4, 2026: Winter Wonderland at Children’s Museum of Memphis

If you haven’t had the chance to visit Winter Wonderland at CMOM yet, consider this your sign to do so. Enjoy the skating rink, engage in a fluffy snowball battle, pose in a life-sized snow globe, build an igloo, visit the gingerbread house, and more! Admission is $18 per person. cmom.com

January 3, 2026: 47th Annual Hill & Dale 8-Miler

Start your year off with this eight-mile trail run at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. All proceeds benefit the park, and the race begins at 11 a.m. Registration fees start at $16.90. runsignup.com

Select Dates Starting January 6, 2026: Memphis Grizzlies Home Basketball Games

Take the family to FedExForum for a night of basketball and fun. On select nights in January, you can watch your Memphis Grizzlies play at home and hopefully take the victory. To see the entire schedule and purchase tickets, click HERE.

January 6 – 31, 2026: Multi-Space Event: Savings for the Whole Home

California Closets’ January Multi Space Sales Event lets homeowners elevate multiple areas of their homes while saving $350 on one space, $750 on two, or $1,250 on three or more spaces in the same contract. It’s the perfect opportunity to start multiple projects at once and experience the brand’s signature design, craftsmanship, and service. californiaclosets.com

January 7 – 11, 2026: Elvis’ Birthday Celebration at Graceland

The week commemorating The King’s birthday is action-packed this year. Head to Graceland for celebrations ranging from concerts and conversations to movie marathons and more. To see the complete schedule of happenings, visit graceland.com.

January 10, 2026: The Magic of Motown

Taking place at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts, The Magic of Motown features iconic hits from The Temptations, The Jackson 5, Diana Ross & The Supremes, and Aretha Franklin. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m., and tickets start at $35. thecannoncenter.com

January 13 – 17, 2026: International Blues Challenge

Join 200 blues musicians from around the world as they gather on Memphis’ iconic Beale Street. The International Blues Challenge includes five days of live music and ends with a final round hosted at FedExForum. Festival passes are $125. blues.org

January 18 & 25 + February 10 & 22, 2026: Intro to Watercolor Botanicals with Barrie Foster

Join local artist Barrie Foster for a four-week, adults-only class where you can learn ink pen techniques, color theory, and watercolor painting basics. Tickets are $210 for members and $240 for non-members. membg.org

January 16, 2026: Science of Beer

The Museum of Science & History invites you to sample some of the finest regional brews and cuisine while learning about the science behind beer. The event also includes lectures and other interactive beer-themed activities. Participating breweries include Crosstown Brewing, Wiseacre Brewing, Hampline Brewing, and more. The event begins at 6:30 p.m., and general admission tickets are $60. moshmemphis.com

January 19, 2026: King Day: A Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday

This special event at the National Civil Rights Museum showcases Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s work as well as the history of how the national holiday came to be. Attendees can also enjoy complimentary museum admission and a range of vibrant programming throughout the day. The event begins at 8 a.m. civilrightsmuseum.org

Jan 20 – 26, 2026: The Outsiders

This Tony Award-winning musical brings the classic story of friendship and belonging to life with an original score and powerful performances. Tickets start at $38. To see the complete schedule of performances, visit orpheum-memphis.com.

Happy New Year, Memphis!

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To see even more great Memphis events, visit our Happenings page!