As promised, here is a quick overview of Memphis in May events, what to expect, and a few personal tips. Each year, one country is honored, and this year the committee has chosen Tunisia.
The fun starts Friday night with the Beale Street Music Fest! With all genres of music on three big stages, plus the Blues Shack and Blues Tent, there is something for everyone. Beware one thing - it WILL rain. And with the rain, it WILL be muddy! My tips: wear boots and a raincoat or poncho, wrap your phone and camera in plastic, and bring hand sanitizer. You can check out the lineup at http://www.memphisinmay.org/music. Make your own personal lineup and have plans to meet your friends in certain places because cell service can be spotty. Be ready to get wet, but have a great time!! DON’T FORGET!! Today is the LAST day to buy Music Fest tickets at the cheaper price. It is just $65 (plus fees) for a 3 day pass. You have until midnight tonight.
Pictures from last year: Hanging with friends on Friday (the one dry night), All American Rejects perform, Listening in the Blues Tent, Standing in MUD, Showing off our awesome rain outfits, James Taylor performs.
The second week in May brings several cultural events celebrating the honored country of Tunisia. Check out the website for full details (http://www.memphisinmay.org/honoredcountry). I don't think I made it to any last year, but I have had a great time at various food tastings and dance demonstrations in past years.
A Turkish dance demonstration from a few years ago:
Thursday through Saturday, May 13 - 15 is one of my favorite summer weekends - it's Barbecue Fest!! Tents and structures line the entire mile of Tom Lee Park, smells of barbecue fill the air, and tons of delicious food and cold beer are consumed. There is a small park entrance fee, but also beware that you cannot enter most team booths unless you are a member or know someone who is a member (and gives you a wristband). Party nights are Thursday and Friday, with judging most of the day Saturday. Wear loose clothes, bring tips for booths you eat or drink at (this is much appreciated and pretty much expected), and as usual bring hand sanitizer. Most of all, get ready to eat the best barbecue you have tasted!
Pictures from last year: One of the booths decorated as Easter Island, Tent City on a beautiful day, sunset on a tent rooftop then partying on another, food glorious food, a whole hog awaits judging, one of the party nights (always rockin), Miss Piggy Idol contest.
Memphis in May is brought to a close with Sunset Symphony on Saturday, May 29. The all day event includes music from local performers, an air show, the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, a featured band (this year it is KC and the Sunshine Band) and a fireworks show. Bring your picnic basket, cooler, and blanket down to Tom Lee Park for a great Memorial Day weekend! Check out http://www.memphisinmay.org/sunsetsymphony for more details and to buy tickets.
Pictures from two years ago: our picnic spread, dancing it up, having a great night!
Memphis in May is a month-long cultural, musical, culinary adventure, so get ready to learn… and party!
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