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.
See the starting point for so many music stars at Sun Studio. This recording studio claims the status of being the original birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll, having served as the original recording studio for iconic artists-Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis among them. Take a tour of the studios for a close look at some of music's greatest memorabilia.
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.
The oldest and most successful community theater in the state, Theatre Memphis was founded in 1920 and continues to provide Memphis with enriching theatrical performances and entertainment. Theatre Memphis runs a yearlong season, with 10-11 shows and a sprinkling of special events each season. Catch a variety of performances, from drama to comedy to musicals, such as Chicago, Emma, The Importance of Being Earnest and the annual A Christmas Carol.