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.
With two lakes and miles of hiking trails, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is perfect for boating, biking and outdoor activities. Enjoy swimming, fishing, horseback riding and disc golf at this beautiful park. Pack a tent and camp among the large oak, cypress and tupelo trees or rent a cabin and enjoy modern luxuries in the woods.
Be awed by some of the best entertainment and arts at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. You can find a wide variety of productions at the Cannon Center. Everything from dance performances-from ballet to folklorico to contemporary-and stand-up comedy can be found under one roof.
Art lovers and nature lovers unite at Dixon Gallery and Gardens. This fine art museum and public garden attraction is known for its diverse and innovative combination of the arts and horticulture. The museum houses over 2,000 objects in its permanent collection and presents eight to ten traveling exhibitions annually. The 17-acre gardens feature formal spaces, woodland tracts and cutting gardens for the public to enjoy.