The Memphis in May International Festival celebrates the culture of an honored country each year, as well as that of Memphis.
The festival takes place in Tom Lee Park on Riverside Drive in Downtown Memphis, and the entire month of May is full of fun and educational cultural events in addition to the better-known music and barbecue festivals.
As expected from the birthplace of rock-n-roll, the first festival of the month is the Beale Street Music Festival, with an impressive lineup of bands from a variety of musical genres, including blues, rock, hip-hop, gospel, alternative, country, and R&B.
The third weekend of May is the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, also called the BBQ Fest, which is one saucy party.
The final weekend consists of a huge picnic in the park, known as Sunset Symphony, which closes out the month-long celebration.
Each festival has its own party atmosphere. Click on the above links for specifics on what happens at each event when night falls.
Full Disclosure: Writer works seasonally for Memphis in May.