17 Memphis Events & Happenings: May 2026
Memphis in May is here, and that means live music, sizzling barbecue, exciting fun runs, and plenty 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 baseball games to festivals and fun runs, the Bluff City is buzzing with ways to get out and soak in the season. Here’s what’s happening around town this month!
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
Pro 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 themes (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., the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art becomes an interactive space for families to create their own chalk masterpieces while taking in the works on display from local artists. Set against live music, good food, and plenty of all-ages activities, it’s family fun at its finest. Registration is free, and you can reserve your spot at simpletix.com.
May 2 & 3, 2026: Fair on the Square
The only thing better than shopping is shopping local — are we right? Fair on the Square returns for its 50th anniversary, and it’s sure to be a memorable one with hundreds of local vendors and businesses for you to explore. All funds raised during the weekend go back into the Collierville community, making your spree a win/win for all! 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
Still need a little something for Mother’s Day? Head over to the Lake District for a Spring Market, hosted by Villa Castrioti, and browse the selection of gifts, local art and more, perfect for giving — and getting! Tickets are $10 and include one cocktail, mocktail, or kids’ drink, and a raffle ticket. facebook.com
May 3, 2026: Petals and Parasols
Dearest gentle readers: 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 upgrade to the Rose of the Ball VIP Experience for exclusive cocktails. We think Lady Whistledown would approve. 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. The best part? Art for All is free for all, so bring the whole crew! 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 Spring Citrus Ceviche paired with 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 16, 2026: Legacy Experience Reopening
Celebrate the reopening of the National Civil Rights Museum’s newly expanded Legacy Experience! From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the free community celebration features a ribbon-cutting ceremony, live music, storytelling, children’s activities, and more. The immersive exhibition explores civil rights history from 1968 to today, serving as the centerpiece of the museum’s 35th anniversary Legacy Year. civilrightsmuseum.org
May 17, 2026: Paws in the Park
Head to Shelby Farms Park for Paws in the Park, a free community event celebrating all our four-footed friends. Connect with local businesses and animal organizations from across the 901 while enjoying food trucks, vendor booths, and kid-friendly activities. Get creative and enter your dog in the costume contest for a pawsitively adorable photo op! Learn more at pawsintheparkmemphis.com.
May 21, 2026: Watch What You Eat: Ominous Dinners on the Giant Screen
Calling all Harrison Ford fans! 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 paradise with this 21+ tasting event featuring 12 Bluff City creations competing for the crown. Sample, vote, and pick your fave while enjoying plenty of food, live entertainment, and a cash bar with 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.
Ariel Taranski
Ariel's been writing professionally for over a decade, with a passion for travel, pets, good food, and a great book. She's lived in Memphis for over half of her life, a transplant from Florida and Southern through-and-through.