Memphis, October 17, 2025
News Summary
This weekend, Memphis is set to showcase a vibrant lineup of events including the ‘Soul of the City’ walking tours at Elmwood Cemetery, the RiverArtsFest featuring over 160 fine artists, and a Family Fun Day at the Metal Museum. Families can enjoy hands-on activities, while art lovers indulge in performances and exhibitions throughout the city. From cultural storytelling to artistic demonstrations, there’s something for everyone in Memphis this exciting weekend.
Memphis Weekend Events: Soul of the City, RiverArtsFest, and Family Fun Day
This weekend, Memphis will be bustling with a variety of events, including the annual “Soul of the City” event hosted by Elmwood Cemetery, the RiverArtsFest, and the Metal Museum’s Repair Days Family Fun Day. These activities cater to a diverse audience, offering cultural experiences, artistic expressions, and family-friendly fun.
Soul of the City Event
Elmwood Cemetery is set to host the annual “Soul of the City” event this weekend, providing visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the stories of former residents. The event features a walking tour that lasts approximately 75 minutes, accompanied by narratives shared by residentsโ descendants who return to recount their experiences and histories.
Food trucks will be on site to enhance the experience, with Tipsy Tumbler and Hot โn Heavy available on Friday, and El Mero Taco scheduled for Saturday. Ticket prices range from $20 to $25, granting attendees access to this individualized exploration of local history.
Free Autumn Shout-Out Shakespeare Series
Additionally, the Free Autumn Shout-Out Shakespeare Series is concluding this week with a free performance of “Much Ado About Nothing”. Performances will take place across several venuesโthe Overton Squareโs Chime Square Amphitheatre, under the Sunset Canopy at Tom Lee Park, and at the Overton Park Shell. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic blankets or folding chairs to enjoy the outdoor theater setting.
RiverArtsFest
The RiverArtsFest, known as the Mid-Southโs largest fine arts festival, also occurs this weekend. Visitors can expect to see over 160 fine artists and enjoy live music along with hands-on art activities and demonstrations. Featured performers include notable artists such as Terry “Big T” Williams, Victim of Doug, Mark Edgar Stuart, and Rachel Maxann, with performances scheduled throughout Saturday and Sunday.
Family Fun Day at the Metal Museum
Coinciding with RiverArtsFest is the Metal Museum’s Repair Days Family Fun Day, which serves as the museum’s largest annual fundraiser. This event offers hands-on activities and free admission to the museum, allowing families to engage in creative experiences. Notable events during Family Fun Day include a Foundry Demo at 1:30 p.m., an Iron Pour at 2 p.m., and an Artist Talk by James Viste at 4 p.m. (RSVP required).
Homes for Hearts Fundraiser
Homes for Hearts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building affordable tiny homes for the unhoused, is hosting its first-ever fundraising event themed “Memphis Legends.” The fundraiser includes food, drinks, music, art, a cocktail contest, live art by Birdcap, auctions, and more. Tickets for this event start at $100.
Art Exhibitions
In addition to these events, various art exhibitions are open this week, such as “Drawn of the Dead” at Germantown Community Theatre, “ARTober ’25!” at Gallery Ten Ninety-One, Monster Market 2025 at The Medicine Factory, Hot Off the Wall Art Sale at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, and a Jazz Jam Session hosted by the Alex Upton Quartet at Crosstown Arts.
With such a wide array of activities available, Memphis showcases its vibrant arts and cultural scene this weekend, promising experiences for everyone.
FAQ
- What is the “Soul of the City” event?
- The “Soul of the City” event at Elmwood Cemetery features a walking tour with narratives from residents who return to share their stories.
- How long do the tours last and what food options are available?
- The tours last approximately 75 minutes, with food trucks including Tipsy Tumbler and Hot โn Heavy on Friday, and El Mero Taco on Saturday.
- What is the price range for tickets to the “Soul of the City” event?
- Tickets for the “Soul of the City” event range from $20 to $25.
- When and where can I watch “Much Ado About Nothing”?
- The Free Autumn Shout-Out Shakespeare Series offers a free performance of “Much Ado About Nothing” at multiple venues including Overton Squareโs Chime Square Amphitheatre and the Overton Park Shell.
- What major festival is happening in Memphis this weekend?
- The RiverArtsFest features over 160 fine artists, live music, food, and performances across Saturday and Sunday.
- What activities can families participate in at the Metal Museum’s Family Fun Day?
- Family Fun Day includes a Foundry Demo, an Iron Pour, and an Artist Talk, among other hands-on activities with free admission.
- What is the objective of the Homes for Hearts fundraiser?
- The Homes for Hearts fundraiser aims to support building affordable tiny homes for the unhoused, featuring food, drinks, music, and art contests.
Key Features Comparison Chart
| Event | Location | Date | Activities | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soul of the City | Elmwood Cemetery | This Weekend | Walking tours, food trucks | $20 to $25 |
| Free Autumn Shout-Out Shakespeare Series | Various Locations | This Week | Performances of ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ | Free |
| RiverArtsFest | Memphis | This Weekend | Fine arts, live music | Varies |
| Repair Days Family Fun Day | Metal Museum | This Weekend | Hands-on activities, demos | Free |
| Homes for Hearts Fundraiser | TBA | TBA | Food, drinks, auctions | Starting at $100 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Memphis Rap Legends Return for Halloween Show
Indie Memphis Film Festival Pauses for Financial Realignment
Memphis Flyer Celebrates 30 Years of Community Service
City Council Designates October 14 as Day of Remembrance
Mild Autumn Weather Graces Memphis
National Guard Deployed to Address Rising Crime in Memphis
Memphis Tigers Prepare for Key Matchup Against South Florida
Former Memphis Tigers Player Publishes Inspirational Book
Christian Leaders Reflect on the Impact of a Tragic Assassination
National Guard Troops Begin Patrolling Memphis to Combat Crime
Additional Resources
- Commercial Appeal: Upcoming Events at Buckman Arts Center
- Wikipedia: Memphis
- Daily Memphian: Memphis To-Do List
- Wikipedia: Riverfest
- Memphis Magazine: RiverArtsFest Highlights
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
