News Summary
As the new year begins, Memphis is abuzz with a wide range of celebrations and events that promise fun for everyone. From engaging family activities at the Childrenโs Museum to the thrilling International Blues Challenge, thereโs something for music fans, sports lovers, and those looking for creative outlets. Attendees can enjoy concerts, sports events, and community gatherings throughout January. The city is alive with the spirit of festivities, ensuring a memorable start to 2025 for both locals and visitors alike.
Memphis Kicks Off 2025 with Exciting Events and Celebrations
As the new year rolls in, Memphis is buzzing with a plethora of exciting events and celebrations to keep everyone entertained! From winter wonders to vibrant music festivals, thereโs something happening almost every day in this lively city. Whether youโre a local or just visiting, youโll find plenty to enjoy.
Winter Wonderland at the Children’s Museum
One of the must-visit attractions this January is the Winter Wonderland at the Children’s Museum of Memphis, which is running until January 5. Families can have a blast here, skating on the rink, engaging in snowball battles, and even stepping inside a life-sized snow globe. At just $18 per person, itโs a perfect way to embrace the winter spirit before itโs gone!
Trail Run in Meeman-Shelby Forest
If youโre looking for a bit of adventure, lace up your running shoes for the eight-mile trail run at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park on January 6. Set to kick off at 11 a.m., this event is perfect for both seasoned runners and eager beginners. With registration fees starting at $16.90, itโs a great way to enjoy the great outdoors and kickstart those New Year fitness goals.
Watch the Memphis Grizzlies
For sports fans, the Memphis Grizzlies will be taking to the court throughout January at FedExForum. Basketball lovers can grab their tickets online and cheer on the local team as they aim for victory. Thereโs nothing like the thrill of a live game to pulse electricity through the crowd!
International Blues Challenge
Feel the rhythm and embrace the soulful sounds of Memphis during the International Blues Challenge happening on Beale Street. From January 6 to 10, two hundred blues musicians will come together for a five-day musical extravaganza, culminating in a final round at FedExForum. Festival passes are available for $125, letting fans enjoy every note of this exciting competition.
Celebrate Elvis Presley’s Birthday at Graceland
January is a special month for Elvis fans as Graceland hosts a range of events in celebration of the King of Rock ‘n’ Rollโs birthday from January 8 to 11. Attendees can enjoy concerts and movie marathons that highlight Elvisโs legendary career. Be sure to check out the complete schedule on their website to plan your visit!
Watercolor Painting Class
If you have a creative streak, why not join artist Judy Nocifora for a four-week watercolor painting class at the Memphis Botanic Garden? Priced at $210 for members and $250 for non-members, this class is the perfect opportunity to brush up on your skills. Just remember to register by January 6 to secure your spot!
ONE-Mile Championship Run
Mark your calendars for January 11 at 2 p.m., as Regional One Health presents its fourth annual ONE-Mile Championship. With registration fees of $39.44 for adults and just $15 for kids, this event is set to be a fun, family-friendly day of fitness and community spirit.
Beer Tasting at the Museum of Science & History
On January 12, the Museum of Science & History will host a beer tasting event starting at 6:30 p.m. Perfect for adults looking to unwind, tickets start at $50 for general admission.
Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy
Additionally, a special event at the National Civil Rights Museum will highlight the profound work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 13, starting at 11:30 a.m. Itโs an excellent opportunity for reflection and celebration of an important figure in American history.
Comedians at The Orpheum
For those seeking laughter, donโt miss comedians Steve Martin and Martin Short performing at The Orpheum on January 14. With tickets starting at $107, this evening of comedy promises to be a delightful night out!
Celebrate 901 Day!
Later in the month, as Memphis gears up for 901 Day, donโt forget about the three-day festival taking place at Railgarten, along with various local pride activities. Events throughout Beale Street and Broad Avenue will celebrate Memphis culture, with community support from local businesses and organizations aiming to spotlight the cityโs vibrant heritage.
Memphis is starting 2025 off right, and we canโt wait to see all the excitement unfold! So gather your friends and family, and dive into these fantastic events!
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Additional Resources
- StyleBlueprint: January Events in Memphis
- Commercial Appeal: Food Events in Memphis
- Choose901: 901 Day Celebration Guide
- Graceland: Elvis’s Birthday Events
- Lonely Planet: Best Time to Visit Memphis
- Wikipedia: Memphis
- Google Search: Memphis events January 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis, Tennessee
- Google News: Events in Memphis

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.


