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.
Express yourself at Memphis's finest social club, Five in One. Five in One is a living art project, and the city's home for contemporary performing and visual arts. This studio not only produces and displays artwork, but also teaches group projects and sells items from local manufacturers and vendors.
Bring your wild things to see the animals at the Memphis Zoo. The zoo is home to a number of big cats, primates and other African plains mammals, as well as a variety of reptiles, farm animals and exotic creatures from all over the globe. Take the family to an animal attraction or show, such as the Sea Lions or Animals of the Night, or feed the birds at the Birds & Bees house.
Be moved by the union of words and music at the Opera Memphis. Charted in 1956 by a group of Memphians interested in producing regional opera, Opera Memphis successfully produces three operas each season, as well as hosting special events and reaching out to the community through educational programs.