Formerly the Memphis Cotton Carnival, Carnival Memphis has been around since 1931. This annual celebration consists of a series of parties and festivals similar to Mardi Gras. During the month of June, the Carnival Memphis Association and its krewes select a King, Queen, and Royal Court to reign over the festivities, including parades and events celebrating local industries.
Walk along the scenic Riverwalk or take a ride on the Monorail at Mud Island River Park, home to plenty of attractions and Memphis's own Adventure Center-the best place to get out and be active within the city. Rent a bike to explore the trails and surrounding area, or take a canoe or kayak out on the river. Learn about the history of the Lower Mississippi Valley at Mud Island's Mississippi River Museum.
TheatreWorks hosts several of the city's theater companies, including Emerald Theatre Co., Voices of the South, Ballet on Wheels, Bluff City Tri-Area Theatre Co., New Moon Theatre Co., Our Own Voice, FreakEngine, Project: Motion and the Young Actor's Guild. It's definitely the "go-to" venue for theater production and entertainment in Memphis.
Take in the beauty of Memphis at Overton Park. Home to the zoo, Brooks Art Museum, an amphitheater, a golf course and the Memphis College of the Arts, this sprawling park has outdoor and indoor activities for the entire family. Walk along the trails and absorb nature, play a game of soccer or let the little ones run wild at the playground.