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.
Learn about the cultural and natural history of the Mid-South at the Pink Palace Museum. See the dinosaur exhibit or look at the artifacts from Native Americans and Spanish explorers. Explore the outer limits at the planetarium or watch the newest documentary on the IMAX screen. The museum is jam-packed with attractions that you and the kids won't want to miss.
Listen to a performance in an outdoor setting at the Handy Park Amphitheater during the evenings. Handy Park is located downtown on famous Beale Street. This beautiful park has plenty of space on the lawn and between the trees to spread out a blanket as you take in the music of different bands, from blues to rock.