Thanksgiving Weekend in Memphis: A Celebration of Fun and Festivities!
Hey there, Memphis! Can you smell the turkey yet? Yep, it’s almost that time of year again! As we gear up for Thanksgiving weekend, it’s the perfect opportunity to kick off the holiday season. This isn’t just about family dinners, leftovers, and football – oh no! This is also your chance to get out and enjoy some exciting local events. Here’s a friendly guide to the 15 best things you can do over the Thanksgiving weekend!
Start Your Day with a Turkey Trot
If you’re looking to burn off those extra calories before diving into your Thanksgiving feast, why not join the Memphis Turkey Trot? Kicking off at 9 a.m. at Shelby Farms Park, this fun run offers a choice between a four-mile trek or a two-mile relay. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want a cute turkey medal to show for it?
Thanksgiving Night Out
For many, Thanksgiving evening is perfect for reconnecting with friends or taking a break from family chaos. Luckily, numerous local bars are keeping their doors open, offering a great opportunity to socialize without any guilt. So gather your pals, grab a drink, and toast to the holiday spirit!
A Magical Starry Nights Experience
Feeling too full to walk around? Load up the family car with some hot cocoa and embark on a delightful drive through Starry Nights at Shelby Farms Park. Opening on November 29, this event features millions of twinkling lights that will leave you in awe and spark the holiday cheer within.
Shop Local This Small Business Saturday
Don’t forget to put your money where your heart is and support our local vendors this Small Business Saturday. With not one, not two, but three holiday markets lined up – including the Falling Into Place Holiday Market and Small Business Makers Market – you can find some unique gifts while helping the community thrive!
Spread Some Holiday Cheer through Volunteering
Looking to give back? The holidays are the prime time to start volunteering! Volunteer Odyssey offers numerous opportunities, making it easier than ever to find a cause you care about and lend a helping hand. Remember, sharing is caring!
Enjoy Some Festive Theater
Leave the kids at home for a night of laughter at Who’s Holiday! This cheeky adult comedy reintroduces Cindy Lou Who, and let’s just say, she’s not the sweet little girl you remember! The show runs from November 22 to December 22, and it’s guaranteed to make your belly hurt from laughter!
Holiday Magic in Collierville Town Square
Want to live out your very own holiday movie? Collierville Town Square is the place to be! With spectacular light displays, live music, and regular visits from Santa, this quaint spot transforms into a festive wonderland every weekend.
Marvel at the Memphis Botanic Garden
The Memphis Botanic Garden becomes a winter dreamland during the annual Holiday Wonders. Opening on November 29, families can stroll through beautifully decorated gardens, enjoy festive food trucks, and snap holiday-themed photos. There’s even a towering Christmas tree to admire!
Catch Peter Pan at the Orpheum Theatre
Live theater is even more enchanting during the holiday season! Get ready for the magical musical Peter Pan at the Orpheum Theatre. This adaptation promises to whisk the entire family on an incredible adventure that’ll have you saying, “I believe in fairies!”
Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo
Another must-see is Truist Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo, where you can soak in the mesmerizing light displays and catch a picture in the iconic Light Tunnel. The holiday experience wouldn’t be complete without some skating on the ice rink, so make sure to lace up those skates!
Holiday Elegance at the Peabody Hotel
No holiday in Memphis would be complete without a visit to the elegant Peabody Hotel. Head to the Grand Lobby to see the largest tree adorned with a stunning 20,000 twinkling lights. Enjoy the ambiance as you relax with a festive cocktail and holiday tunes!
New Additions: Surfin Santa and the Leftovers Festival
Keep the holiday spirit alive with exciting new attractions! Check out the Surfin Santa pop-up at Mary’s B.O.T.E. or head over to Grind City Brewing for the Leftovers Food & Market Festival on December 1. Pair great food with a complimentary drink as you enjoy the festivities!
A Journey Back in Time at the Graceland Exhibition Center
Take a trip back to ancient history and explore the frozen city of Pompeii at the Graceland Exhibition Center. This captivating exhibition showcases over 150 artifacts and multimedia displays that are sure to enthrall history buffs and curious minds alike. Just a heads up, it’s closed on Thanksgiving Day but opens again on Friday!
Memphis, get ready to seize the holiday season and create lasting memories this Thanksgiving weekend! Whatever you choose to do, make sure you soak in every moment, enjoy good food, and spread some holiday cheer. Happy Thanksgiving!
