This Weekend in Memphis: Celebrate Elvis and More!
Memphis is buzzing this weekend with a mix of excitement, nostalgia, and culture. Whether you’re an Elvis fan or just looking for something fun to do, we’ve got a list of five events that will keep you entertained and make your weekend memorable.
Elvis Week at Graceland – Through Saturday, August 17
Feeling your temperature rising? Well, that’s not just the August heat; it’s the anticipation for Elvis Week! This annual celebration started on Wednesday and wraps up on Saturday at Graceland, the legendary home of the King of Rock and Roll. The highlight of the week is the Candlelight Vigil tonight. Fans gather to walk up to Elvis’s gravesite, candle in hand, in a beautiful tribute to his legacy. It’s free for everyone, so grab your friends, light your candles, and take part in this heartwarming event.
On Friday at 7 p.m., you can catch a special screening celebrating Elvis’s comeback in Las Vegas. With live vocals and a band performing alongside the film, it’s a fantastic way to experience the magic of Elvis on the big screen. Tickets range from $65 to $95 and can be grabbed quickly, so don’t miss out!
On Saturday at 2 p.m., be sure to check out Elvis: Behind the Music, hosted by the friendly Elvis Radio DJ Argo. He’ll dive into the King’s Memphis recordings with guests who played alongside him, including Grammy-winning music historian Robert Gordon. Tickets for this deep-dive musical journey are $32.
And if you’re looking for a real blast from the past, join the ’50s Flashback: Drive-in, Dinner & Sock-Hop’ on Saturday night. Enjoy a buffet featuring a Beale Street feast while watching Elvis’s movie Loving You, followed by some great dancing. The ticket for this nostalgic evening is $100.
Waitress at Playhouse on the Square – Opens Friday, August 16
If you’re in the mood for a musical, make sure to stop by the Playhouse on the Square to see Waitress. This show is about Jenna, a talented pie-maker who feels trapped in a loveless life. As she faces an unexpected pregnancy and dreams about owning her pie shop, the arrival of a new doctor and a baking contest offer her a chance at a fresh start. It’s a poignant tale filled with laughter and tears — perfect for a night of entertainment!
The first show begins this Friday and runs until September 15, with performances every Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets are only $25, and trust us, you won’t regret this decision!
Yellow Jack Presentation at Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum – Friday, August 16, 6 – 8 p.m.
For those interested in a slice of Memphis history, head over to the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum for a presentation on the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1878. This lecture will shed light on a dark chapter in our city’s past. After the talk, you can explore the beautifully-staged mansion that tells the story of that tragic time. Rated as one of the most chilling periods in Memphis history, this presentation aims to honor those who suffered during the epidemic.
Refreshments that help beat the heat will be served, and tickets are limited to $25, so secure yours beforehand! The “Yellow Jack” exhibition will be available until August 25 — don’t miss this educational opportunity!
Wurlitzer Silent Movie: The Phantom of the Opera at Orpheum Theatre – Friday, August 16, 7 p.m.
For cinema lovers, join us at the Orpheum Theatre for a classic screening of The Phantom of the Opera (1925). This silent film is a haunting tale that has captivated audiences for decades. To make the experience even more special, the theater’s own organist will perform live with the iconic Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, enhancing the film’s eerie atmosphere.
Recommended donations for entry are just $10, making it an affordable evening full of thrilling entertainment!
On Paper Community Night at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens – Saturday, August 17, 5 – 8 p.m.
Lastly, don’t forget about the On Paper! community night at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens. This interactive exhibit celebrates the art and craft of paper while showcasing its various uses. This Saturday evening promises creative storytelling, art-making activities, and performances. Plus, you can enjoy delicious gelato from Zio Matto and snacks from La Antojería!
This event is free to attend, making it a great way to wrap up your weekend with family and friends while engaging with art and our local community.
So there you have it, Memphis! Whether you’re drawing inspiration from The King himself or indulging in a fantastic musical, this weekend is packed with activities. Grab your friends and make the most out of what our vibrant city has to offer!
