Memphis, TN, December 11, 2025
The Greater Memphis Chamber announced Ireland as the honored country for the upcoming Memphis in May International Festival. This celebration aims to showcase Irish culture, trade, and innovation, reinforcing ties between Memphis and Europe. The festival highlights the strategic importance of international trade relationships while giving a platform for cultural exchange that fosters local economic growth. Activities will include performances and culinary experiences designed to engage both locals and visitors in the rich heritage of Ireland.
Ireland Named Honored Country for 2026 Memphis in May Festival
Memphis to Celebrate Irish Culture, Trade, and Innovation in 2026
Memphis, TN โ The Greater Memphis Chamber and Memphis in May International Festival have announced Ireland as the honored country for the 2026 festival, set to take place in May 2026. This marks the second time Ireland has been featured, the first being in 2005. The announcement was made during the Greater Memphis Chamberโs Annual Chairmanโs Luncheon, attended by over 1,000 business and community leaders.
This selection is not just a cultural celebration; it also indicates Memphis’s growing international trade relationships and the strategic importance of reinforcing ties with European Union markets. Irelandโs role as a gateway to Europe, along with its vibrant technology and pharmaceutical sectors, aligns well with Memphisโs commitment to enhancing its status as Americaโs Distribution Center and the emerging Digital Delta.
Strengthening International Relationships
The choice of Ireland as the honored country reflects a broader vision to foster international relationships that can benefit local businesses and the Shelby County economy. The Greater Memphis area is historically known for its logistical capabilities, and Irelandโs innovation-focused landscapes complement this identity. Recognizing the synergies between these two regions could lead to fruitful partnerships and investment opportunities.
Economic Growth Through Cultural Exchange
Memphis in May President and CEO Mack Weaver has underscored Irelandโs dynamic culture and history, highlighting its legacy of poetry and rebellion. The festival will serve as a platform to showcase how both Memphis and Ireland have evolved as global economic centers. By emphasizing cultural exchange, Memphis can harness its rich heritage to catalyze economic growth and entrepreneurial innovation in the community.
Plans for the 2026 Festival
Leading up to May 2026, Memphis in May, in collaboration with the Greater Memphis Chamber, will feature a variety of activities that celebrate Irish culture through performances, culinary experiences, and artistic collaborations. This event is designed to immerse both Memphians and visitors in the splendor of Irish heritage while promoting potential business opportunities and government partnerships.
Memphis in Mayโs Legacy
Founded in 1977, the Memphis in May International Festival is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to enhancing international awareness and promoting economic growth through education. Its year-round initiatives, which feature some of Memphisโs most beloved events, aim to strengthen community ties and inspire local entrepreneurs. Events such as the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and the Great American River Run reflect not only local culture but also serve as opportunities for economic development.
Looking Ahead
As we approach May 2026, Memphis can look forward to engaging more deeply with Ireland and exploring how each area can learn from the other. The 2026 edition of the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is scheduled for May 13โ16, 2026, at Liberty Park, while the Great American River Run is set for Saturday, May 23, 2026. By participating in these events, residents will not only celebrate but also contribute to Memphis’s ongoing growth.
Call to Action
As we embrace this upcoming festival and its opportunities for cultural exchange and economic partnerships, itโs important for the local community to remain engaged. Supporting local businesses, exploring new connections with international markets, and participating in events can foster an environment of resilience and growth within Memphis.
FAQ
What is the Memphis in May International Festival?
The Memphis in May International Festival is a month-long festival held annually in Memphis, Tennessee, celebrating the city’s culture, fostering economic growth, and enhancing international awareness through education. It features events such as the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and the Great American River Run.
When is the 2026 Memphis in May International Festival?
The 2026 festival is scheduled for May 2026, with the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest taking place from May 13โ16, 2026, at Liberty Park, and the Great American River Run on Saturday, May 23, 2026.
Why was Ireland chosen as the honored country for 2026?
Ireland was selected to highlight its dynamic culture, history, and innovation, aligning with Memphis’s expanding international trade relationships and the strategic importance of strengthening ties with European Union markets. Ireland’s role as a gateway to Europe and its thriving technology and pharmaceutical sectors complement Memphis’s position as America’s Distribution Center and the emerging Digital Delta.
How can I participate in the 2026 Memphis in May International Festival?
For information on participating in the 2026 festival, including event schedules, ticket purchases, and volunteer opportunities, visit the official Memphis in May website at www.memphisinmay.org.
Key Features of the 2026 Memphis in May International Festival
| Event | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest | May 13โ16, 2026 | Liberty Park, Memphis, TN | A premier barbecue competition featuring teams from across the nation. |
| Great American River Run | May 23, 2026 | Downtown Memphis, TN | A half marathon and 5K race along the Mississippi River. |
| Honored Country: Ireland | May 2026 | Various locations in Memphis, TN | Celebration of Irish culture, history, and innovation through cultural performances, culinary experiences, and artistic collaborations. |
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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.
