Memphis · Tom Lee Park & Downtown Memphis
Memphis in May International Festival 2026
May 1 – May 31, 2026
A month-long celebration featuring the Beale Street Music Festival, the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, and the Great American River Run. Memphis in May is the city's signature event series, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the banks of the Mississippi.
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Find HotelsAbout This Event
A month-long celebration featuring the Beale Street Music Festival, the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, and the Great American River Run. Memphis in May is the city's signature event series, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the banks of the Mississippi.
Dates
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Sunday, May 31, 2026
Venue
Tom Lee Park & Downtown Memphis
Who Attends
Music fans, BBQ enthusiasts, groups of 2-12
Ideal Stay
Check in May 14 – Check out May 18
Tips for Memphis in May International Festival 2026
Book early — downtown hotels fill up fast during festival weekends
The BBQ Contest weekend (mid-May) is the most popular
Wear comfortable shoes for walking between Tom Lee Park and Beale Street
Check the schedule for individual event dates within the month
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Curated stays for Memphis in May International Festival 2026. Claim your deal — get a discount off the best available rate or exclusive group discounts.
Limited availability
