Memphis, TN, comes alive in the fall with an array of exciting events, festivals, and activities that showcase the city’s rich culture, music, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, there are countless things to do in Memphis that will make your autumn season unforgettable. From live music under the stars to foodie festivals and art shows, Memphis has something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best fall activities in the city.
Overton Park Shell Concerts
Kick off your fall with free live music at the historic Overton Park Shell, where Elvis Presley performed his first show. From late August through October, enjoy weekly performances by both local and touring acts on Fridays and Saturdays. Bring a picnic or grab a bite from the onsite food trucks, and enjoy a night under the stars. With Certified Deaf Interpreters at each show, everyone can partake in this Memphis tradition.
Southern Heritage Classic
The Southern Heritage Classic, held from September 12-14, 2024, is a must-see for sports enthusiasts. This historic football matchup between Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Tennessee State University takes place at the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. Experience the excitement of pre-game tailgating, the Battle of the Bands, and the legendary halftime show featuring the schools’ bands. This event is more than just a game—it’s a celebration of HBCU culture and pride.
Cooper-Young Festival
On September 14, 2024, step into the electrifying energy of the Cooper-Young Festival, a must-see in Memphis, TN, and the largest one-day festival in the entire state. Picture yourself strolling through the “historically hip” arts district, where the streets pulse with the rhythm of live music from multiple stages. Hundreds of vibrant shopping booths line the avenues, each offering unique treasures waiting to be discovered. As the aroma of delicious food and drink fills the air, your senses are in for a treat. Whether you’re on a quest for the perfect find, craving a culinary adventure, or simply soaking in the dynamic sounds of the city, the Cooper-Young Festival is the ultimate destination to ignite your fall in Memphis
Orpheum Broadway Series
If you’re a fan of the theater, the Orpheum Broadway Series is a fall highlight you won’t want to miss. Starting in September and running through July 2025, the Orpheum Theatre hosts a variety of Broadway shows, including “MJ,” “Girl from the North Country,” “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” and “Peter Pan.” Each performance is a chance to experience Broadway magic in the heart of Memphis.
Memphis Brewfest
Beer lovers, mark your calendars for September 21, 2024, when the Memphis Brewfest takes over Liberty Park’s Memphis Sports & Events Center. With over 50 breweries from around the globe, you can enjoy unlimited beer samples, food trucks, and live music. It’s the perfect way to spend a crisp fall day with friends.
Gonerfest 21
Punk rock fans should head to Railgarten in Midtown Memphis from September 26-29, 2024, for Gonerfest 21. This three-day festival features nearly 30 bands, including Jon Spencer, Derv Gordon, and The Rip Offs. Gonerfest is a celebration of all things punk, making it a unique and unforgettable Memphis experience.
Mempho Music Festival
From October 4-6, 2024, the Mempho Music Festival will explode onto the scene at the Radians Amphitheater, nestled within the lush Memphis Botanic Garden. Imagine the raw energy of Cody Jinks, the hypnotic riffs of Trey Anastasio & Classic Tab, and the fierce, unyielding sound of Queens of the Stone Age tearing through the crisp autumn air. This isn’t just a concert—it’s an auditory odyssey, a visceral experience that grips you from the first chord and doesn’t let go. For those searching for the ultimate things to do in Tennessee, Mempho is the place where your love for live music transforms into an unforgettable adventure. Get ready to lose yourself in the sound and find your rhythm amidst the heart-pounding beats and electrifying atmosphere of one of the state’s most anticipated festivals.
River Arts Festival
Celebrate creativity at the River Arts Festival on October 19-20, 2024. Held on Riverside Drive, this event features over 150 artists, live music, food vendors, and art demonstrations. It’s a great opportunity to explore Memphis’ artistic side and maybe even take home a unique piece of art.
Halloween and Harvest Events
October in Memphis transforms into a hauntingly thrilling playground for all ages. The air thickens with a sense of eerie excitement as the city’s Halloween and harvest events take over. Navigate through twisting corn mazes by moonlight, feel the chill on haunted hayrides, and dare to enter the most spine-tingling haunted houses. One of the top-notch things to do in Memphis is the Zoo Boo at the Memphis Zoo, a spellbinding favorite where kids can safely indulge in the magic of Halloween amidst glowing jack-o’-lanterns and friendly ghouls. This enchanting event casts its spell on select nights from October 4-31, 2024—so mark your calendar, or risk missing out on a frightfully good time!
Indie Memphis Film Festival
Film buffs will love the Indie Memphis Film Festival, taking place from November 14-17, 2024. This festival showcases the best in independent film at venues like Crosstown Theater and Malco Studio on the Square. It’s a fantastic way to discover new filmmakers and see films that push the boundaries of the art form.
Explore Memphis’ Rich Music and Food Scene
Fall in Memphis is a symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors that you simply have to experience to believe. The crisp autumn air carries the soulful notes of blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll as you stroll down the legendary Beale Street, where the city’s rich musical heritage comes alive with every strum of a guitar. The golden light of the season casts a warm glow on iconic landmarks like Sun Studio—the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll—and Graceland, the opulent home of Elvis Presley, where history and music intertwine in the most captivating ways.
But the experience doesn’t end with the music. As you wander through the city, the irresistible aroma of smoky barbecue drifts through the air, guiding you to Memphis’ famed eateries. Whether you’re savoring tender ribs dripping with tangy sauce or indulging in a plate of soul food that tastes like it was made in your grandmother’s kitchen, every bite is a celebration of the city’s culinary prowess. The combination of music, history, and food creates an atmosphere that’s uniquely Memphis—a place where every moment feels rich with tradition, culture, and a touch of Southern magic.
Visit Landers Auto Group
As you dive deep into the rich tapestry of Memphis, where every corner hums with history and every street pulses with the rhythm of the city, let yourself be swept away by the momentous allure that only Memphis can offer. Picture the vibrant glow of Beale Street as the sun sets, the soulful notes of blues drifting through the air, and the tantalizing aroma of smoky barbecue beckoning you from legendary joints. Each bite, each note, each step in Memphis tells a story—a story that’s waiting for you to be a part of it.
But why stop there? As you soak in the unparalleled experiences that make Memphis a one-of-a-kind destination, consider adding a touch of luxury to your journey. Swing by a Landers Auto Group dealership, where the possibility of a new adventure is as close as the turn of a key. Imagine the thrill of discovering the perfect vehicle that complements your Memphis memories, a car that will carry the essence of this incredible city with you wherever you go. Let your visit to Memphis be more than just a trip—make it an experience that lingers long after you’ve returned home. And remember, at Landers Auto Group, the next chapter of your journey might just be waiting for you.