16 Memphis Events & Happenings: May 2026
Memphis in May is here, and that means live music, sizzling barbecue, exciting fun runs, and lots of sunshine. Check out these must-attend events happening around the 901 this month! Image: Instagram / @shelbyfarmspark
May in Memphis means longer days, packed patios, and a calendar full of can’t-miss events. From family-friendly outings to girls’ nights out, the Bluff City is buzzing with ways to get out and enjoy the season. Here’s what’s happening this month — including a mix of free fun and annual favorites.
May 1 – 3, 2026: Riverbeat Music Festival
Kick off the month at Riverbeat, returning to Tom Lee Park with a stacked lineup. This year’s headliners include The Red Clay Strays, Wu-Tang Clan, and Dave Matthews Band, along with plenty of other popular acts. Snag single-day or weekend passes at riverbeat.com.
May 1 – 3, 5 & 8 – 10, 2026: Memphis Tigers Baseball Home Games
College baseball is back, which means you can support the Memphis Tigers during multiple home games. Taking place at the FedExPark Avron Fogelman Field, the Tigers are slated to compete against Central Arkansas, East Carolina, and The University of Texas at San Antonio this month. You can purchase tickets at gotigersgo.com.
May 1 – 3 & 12 – 17, 2026: Memphis Redbirds Home Games
Baseball season is also in full swing, and there are many opportunities to catch the Redbirds this month. Special promotional nights include hot dog buffets, post-game fireworks, and themed nights (like Star Wars and Snoopy). Grab your tickets at milb.com.
May 2, 2026: Cordova’s Vendor Market
From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., head to Cordova for a lively outdoor market at Incredible Pizza Company. Browse local artwork, jewelry, and boutique finds, grab a bite from food trucks, and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere. Find more details on the event’s Facebook page.
May 2, 2026: Chalkfest
Let your kids’ inner artist shine at Chalkfest! Starting at 10 a.m. at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, the whole family can create chalk art while local artists also showcase their work. The event also includes live music, food, and other all-ages activities. Registration is free, and you can reserve your spot at simpletix.com.
May 2 & 3, 2026: Fair on the Square
Fair on the Square returns for its 50th anniversary, and it’s sure to be a memorable one! All funds raised during the weekend go back into the Collierville community as attendees support hundreds of local vendors, businesses, and organizations. Event hours are Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. colliervilletwentiethcenturyclub.org
May 3, 2026: Spring Market
Head over to the Lake District for a Spring Market, hosted by Villa Castrioti. It’s the perfect place to shop for Mother’s Day, or to browse around for local art and more. Tickets are $10 and include one cocktail, mocktail, or kids’ drink, and a raffle ticket. facebook.com
May 3, 2026: Petals and Parasols
If you’ve ever wanted to step into a Bridgerton-style soirée, this is your moment. The Memphis Botanic Garden transforms into a Regency-inspired escape, complete with spring blooms and a live string trio. Guests 21+ can also upgrade to the Rose of the Ball VIP Experience for exclusive cocktails. membg.org
May 6, 13 & 20, 2026: Wednesday Walks at Overton Park
Take a midweek reset with Overton Park’s weekly walks, held every Wednesday at 4:15 p.m. The casual, 1.4-mile loop along the Old Forest’s paved path is an easy way to get outside, meet new people, and enjoy a bit of fresh air. Leashed dogs are also welcome — just bring your own cleanup bags. overtonpark.org
May 9, 2026: Art for All Festival
The Dixon’s Art for All Festival invites families to experience a vibrant afternoon of creativity. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can enjoy live performances, hands-on activities, and contributions from local artists and organizations — all of which are free to enjoy. dixon.org
May 14, 2026: Memphis Zoo Spring Wine Dinner
Celebrate spring at the Memphis Zoo with an elevated wine dinner inside the Teton Trek Lodge. In honor of the Zoo’s 120th anniversary, guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated multi-course menu with wine pairings, including dishes like Spring Citrus Ceviche served alongside Beronia Verdejo Rueda 2024. The 21+ evening is $175 per person (or $1,000 for a table of six) and includes a unique animal encounter. memphiszoo.org
May 17, 2026: Paws in the Park
Head to Shelby Farms Park for Paws in the Park, a free community event celebrating all things pets. Connect with local businesses and animal organizations from across the 901 while enjoying food trucks, vendor booths, kid-friendly activities, and a dog costume contest. Learn more at pawsintheparkmemphis.com.
May 21, 2026: Watch What You Eat: Ominous Dinners on the Giant Screen
Head to the MoSH (Museum of Science & History) for Watch What You Eat, which includes a themed screening of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with Memphis-brewed beer and themed snacks available before the film begins at 7:10 p.m. Tickets are $25.75 per person. moshmemphis.com
May 23, 2026: 3rd Annual Arlington Color Run
Join the third annual Color Run in Arlington in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The high-energy event features color stations, food trucks, kids’ activities, and special guests, along with a festive post-run celebration. Participants receive a swag bag, commemorative T-shirt, and a 15% off Color Shop coupon. To register, visit arlingtoncolorrun.org.
May 30, 2026: Memphis Dragon Boat Festival
Shelby Farms Park wraps up the month with its Dragon Boat Festival, a lively day on Hyde Lake from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expect dragon boat races, food trucks, live music, and kids’ activities, all in a festive, family-friendly setting. Proceeds support the Memphis Chinese Community Center. eventbrite.com
May 30, 2026: Memphis Margarita Festival
Overton Square turns into a margarita lover’s dream with this 21+ tasting event featuring 12 Bluff City creations to sample, vote on, and crown a winner. Along with the margaritas, expect food, live entertainment, and a cash bar offering full-sized drinks. Tickets start at $49 (early-bird) or $55 for general admission. memphismargaritafestival.com
Have a marvelous May, Memphis!
**********
To see even more great Memphis events, check out our Happenings calendar.
Anne Marie Hanna
An Ole Miss alum residing in Nashville, Anne Marie is passionate about telling the stories shaping the South. Outside of work, you’ll likely find her on a porch with a coffee and a good book, gardening, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family.