What is the Memphis festival in May? Everything You should Know

An annual month-long event that covers and changes the city of Memphis, Tennessee, into a spot of cultural festivals, live music, and foodie joys. It is famous for celebrating Memphis culture and honoring local traditions. Also, it attracts a large number of people from all over the world and offers something to everyone regardless of their age and gender. From the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest to the famous Beale Street Music Festival. In this guide, we will help you with all the things you should know about the festival. To know more read the full article given below.

A Look Into the History of Memphis in May

In the hope of fostering the city and bringing peace among nations, the Memphis in May International Festival was established in 1977. In the hope of fostering the city and spreading peace among nations, the Memphis in May International Festival was established in 1977. With many events displaying Memphis's rich culture and its contribution to history, music, and meals, with time it has become such a big festival in the United States.

The festival also honors different nations each year by presenting its arts, culture, and foods. Last year, Japan, Ghana, and the UK were among the nations to receive the honor. There is always something exciting and fresh in the festival.

Important Events at Memphis in May

1. Beale Street Music Festival (First Weekend in May)

The Beale Street Music Festival starts in Memphis in May with a weekend of live music featuring famous artists from different styles. It takes place at Tom Lee Park by the Mississippi River and draws music fans from all over the world. Here are some of the things you can expect from this event:

• Thrilling and exciting performances from various artists from different nations.
• Various stages with both international celebrities and local performers.
• A soothing environment with a beautiful river view, beer gardens, and food trucks.

2. World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (Second Weekend in May)

The contest takes place during the second week of May, and is also one of the biggest barbeque competitions in the world and called as "Super Bowl of Swine". Participants show their skills in cooking different cuisines in different styles. If you are a food lover, do not miss out on this.

• There are more than 200 teams from all around the world that participate in categories such as whole hog, pork shoulder, and ribs.
• Tough competition, secret and delicious sauces, and creative and wholesome BBQ dishes.
• Chance to meet the pitmasters and enjoy some of the best BBQs in the world.

3. International Week (Third Week in May)

Memphis in May honors a different nation every year, by showing its culture through performances, educational events, and art exhibitions. When you are in this event, gives you an opportunity to learn about the culture, music, and dance of the honored country. Countries like Ghana, the Czech Republic, and Poland have been pastly honored.

• Local museums and venues show cultural exhibitions.
• Different types of dance and music performances.
• Cooking demonstrations and international food tasting are also provided.

4. Great American River Run (Memorial Day Weekend)

Near the Mississippi River, the Great American River Run is a wonderful half-marathon and 5K run. The race takes place near such an amazing view to motivate the runners to do their best and win, with this waterfront view people run with all their best abilities.

• Party with drinks and music after the race.
• Participants and winners get some goodies and finisher medals.

Tips for Attending Memphis

• Due to the popularity of the festival, it draws a large crowd of people, so booking in advance can save you a lot of effort.
• The festival is for active people only if you want to explore it very well, and have comfortable clothes and shoes.
• Since it is a long and diverse festival, carrying cash with you will help you when want to have anything smaller to drink or eat.
• You can skip the part of the event, you are not interested in and book for the particular one.

Reasons to Attend Memphis in May

• Nobody wants to miss out on the place, where blues and rock n roll were born, the festival fully embraces its musical heritage. You might see some performances on the street.
• It's not just for any particular group or age, it gives a number of family-friendly events. Children can also participate in cultural events during International Week.
• Focusing on a different country every year makes the festival more educational and cultural. It’s a great chance to learn about new cultures, try different foods, and enjoy global traditions, all in Memphis.

Conclusion

Don't think of Memphis as a series of events, it's way more than that, by celebrating culture, community, and spirit, it goes beyond that. This month's event has something to offer everyone no matter what their age or gender is. Memphis in May offers incredible experiences at every turn, from discovering other cultures to enjoying world-class barbecues and rocking out at the Beale Street Music Festival.