Welcome to Memphis—a vibrant city known for its long history of iconic music and delicious Southern food. While the Tennessee must-visit may not be the first place you think of for a holiday adventure, winter is actually a great time to experience all the city has to offer, as temperatures can stay pleasantly warm throughout the fall, and in the colder months, there are many fun seasonal activities suited to any taste.
Whether you’re seeking historical holiday traditions, sparkling lights that will impress the whole family or Elvis-worthy decor, you’re sure to have a joyful time, and there’s also plenty of comfort food to be had, from classic soul food at The Four Way to warm drinks at Cxffeeblack to nostalgic diner vibes at Arcade to barbecue at Cozy Corner and Payne’s.
Read on for seven of the best holiday activities in Memphis, and be sure to check out WeAreMemphis.com for more about the city and all it has to offer.
1. Have an Elvis-style Christmas at Graceland
While Graceland is fabulous year-round, Elvis Presley’s estate becomes even more magical during the holidays, and the retro Christmas decor stays up through Elvis’ birthday on January 8. The King of Rock and Roll adored the holiday season and went all out in celebrating and making Graceland look as festive as possible, so a Christmas at Graceland tour is a must for any fan.
2. Embrace tradition with the Duck Days of Christmas
For a unique holiday experience that’s fun for all ages, stop by the historic Peabody Hotel—known for its daily ritual in which the adorable ducks living in its fountain march through the lobby—and celebrate the Duck Days of Christmas with storytelling events, caroling and stunning decorations.
3. See old meet new at Crosstown Concourse
Crosstown Concourse, another one of Memphis’ historic spaces, also gets into the spirit with its Season of Delight, featuring music and family activities. The huge ’20s-era former Sears building is now a dynamic space housing restaurants, performance venues, galleries, shops and more, and it’s particularly lively at this time of year.
Courtesy of Crosstown Concourse
4. Feel the music on Beale Street
Love music? You’re in the right place! Beale Street is the site of Memphis’ holiday parade and gift market (taking place on December 13 this year, with additional holiday parades in other areas throughout the season), and the neon lights of the strip’s famed blues bars beckon visitors year-round.
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5. Marvel at the lights at Shelby Farms Park’s Starry Nights
Memphis’ Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, and in December, the sprawling outdoor space becomes a winter wonderland thanks to their annual Starry Nights holiday showcase, a spectacular display of 3.5 million (yes, you read that right!) colorful lights. Attendees can drive through the light display or experience it through an old-fashioned wagon ride.
Courtesy of Shelby Farms Park
6. Have fun with the animals at the Memphis Zoo
The Memphis Zoo just debuted its new Lantern Festival, featuring larger-than-life glowing animal-shaped lantern sculptures. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a zip line ride while you’re there!
7. Cozy up to Christmas trees at the Enchanted Forest
It doesn’t get more Christmassy than the Enchanted Forest Festival of Trees, a fantastical display of elaborately decorated trees, gingerbread houses, animatronic animals and more at the Pink Palace Museum & Mansion, part of the Memphis Museums of Science & History. The Enchanted Forest has been a Memphis tradition for over 60 years, and in the charitable spirit of the season, all proceeds from the event benefit Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
