Memphis in May

Held in Memphis for a month's duration Memphis in May International Festival is an exciting event and really fun event for all. Memphis in May has been happening annually for the last 30 years and is unique in that every year event co-ordinators choose a different country from around the world to honor, striving to raise cultural awareness among residents and visitors. Food, fun and education define the event as one of the most important, exciting and successful in Tennessee. There are several elements to Memphis in May including a music festival, a world championship barbeque cook-off, a triathalon and a sunset symphony.

The Memphis in May music festival is also referred to as the Beale Street Music Festival. Memphis has always been synonymous with great music and this event is no different. The Memphis in May music festival celebrates Memphis' significant musical heritage and deep river sounds where music-lovers from around the globe unite. Over 60 acclaimed artists gather for 3 days on 4 huge stages to belt out crowd pleasing tunes in the 30-acre Tom Lee Park.

The 33 acre property which houses the stages overlooks the Mississippi and is only a few minutes walk from historical Beale Street. The Memphis in May music festival incorporates the sounds of blues, rock, gospel, alternative, R&B and soul music and enjoys world wide media coverage for this sell-out event. The Memphis in May music festival is a must-see if in the city so organize a day trip and check out the excitement!

Memphis in May concerts are a unique part of the festival and draw thousands of people out to see the live music Memphis is famous for. Memphis in May concerts provide the best entertainment possible for this wildy popular festival. Past Memphis in May concerts have featured world-famous acts such as B.B. King, James Brown, Sheryl Crow, the Allman Brothers Band and Stevie Ray Vaughn. Every year the headlining musicians are announced in mid-March and tickets go on sale at that time. Advanced tickets are $25 and tickets at the gate run at $30 each but confirm before purchasing. Memphis in May concerts are so popular that it's best to get a day pass as far in advance as possible.

The Memphis in May World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest was inspired by the regions true love of pork barbeque! In the past more than 100,000 people have attended this event favorite to see, smell and experience the legend of Memphis barbeque. The Memphis in May festival has welcomed famous barbeque visitors such as Vice-President Al Gore and several governors and ambassadors. Highlights of the cook-off include a competition in three categories including whole hog, shoulders, and ribs.

The Great Southern Food Festival is another and newer element to the Memphis in May festival. This event celebrates the charm, cuisine and culture of the South as the goodness of southern food is combined with homemade hospitality. The Sunset Symphony s a perfect way to end the Memphis in May festival. The grand finale includes selections of popular music, tributes to the country and orchestra favorites and includes a breathtaking fireworks show at the very end.

The Memphis in May festival couldn't be in a more convenient location. Take a break from the celebration and do some shopping along Beale Street or find some great dining haunts in the area to chow down at. No matter what, when in Memphis in May definitely do not miss the exciting festivities at this one-of-a-kind festival.