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Whether you are a local, a returning visitor, or brand new to town, there is no better time to
visit Memphis than during Memphis in May!

This festival started in the 1970’s as a modest collaboration to support and promote the city’s
events in May, and has now turned into one of the leading festivals across the country and
around the world! It hosts the city’s largest and most popular events, including the Beale Street
Music Festival and the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. All of these events and
programming ultimately support the city and help it continue to grow and thrive year-round!

The festival has 5 main events, including the Beale Street Music Festival (May 5-7), the
International Salute to Colombia (May 8-14), the World Championship Barbecue Cooking
Contest (May 17-20), 901Fest (May 27), and the Great American River Run (May 28). Whether
you’re here for the entire month of May or just part of it, you’re sure to have lots of amazing
things to do!
 

Beale Street Music Festival

The Beale Street Music Festival is a high-production event with headliners like Kings of Leon,
Death Cab for Cutie, Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Ludacris, and much more! Almost every genre of
music is represented, and a 3 day pass is only $115.
 

World Championship International Cooking Contest

You’ve been warned: it gets smoky. This is America’s most prestigious barbecue cooking
competition, and this year it is celebrating its 40th year in Memphis, TN. Teams from over 25
states and other countries will battle it out to see who rules them all when it comes to
barbecue. The contest has four categories, including whole hog, shoulder, rib and patio porker.
Be sure to purchase a ticket in advance as this is a busy event! Kids under 6 get in for free.
 

International Salute to Colombia, 901Fest, and Great American River Run

Colombia is this year’s honored country at Memphis in May, and from the 8th to the 14th, there
will be lots of events at Memphis’ cultural centers that celebrate and showcase Colombia’s
culture through art, food, performances, speakers and more. At the end of the festival, 901Fest
gathers everyone one more time for a celebration of Memphis’ food, music, shopping, and
people, and will include a special fireworks finale. If you indulge a little too much throughout
May, lace up your sneakers for the Great American River Run Half Marathon and 5K, which
welcomes all ages and skill levels and winds through the streets of downtown Memphis – the
perfect way to finish up Memphis in May.

Best Western Galleria Inn & Suites is located less than 30 minutes away from downtown
Memphis. The city does get crowded during this popular event, so be sure to book your stay in
advance if you’re looking for where to stay for Memphis in May. We have a great selection of
affordable rooms and the best hotel deals for Memphis in May, so you can enjoy as many
activities and events as possible during this exciting time!