Laurie Daniel, MS LPC MHSP NCC

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.

Educate all members of your family about fire safety and how to survive a fire at the Fire Museum of Memphis. Besides learning these techniques, you can also explore the turn-of-the-century firehouse and learn about the history of the Memphis fire department. Climb on a fire truck, slide down the fire pole and try on firefighter gear.

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.