Memphis, TN, September 12, 2025
News Summary
This weekend, Memphis will celebrate B.B. King’s 100th birthday and the Halloran Centre’s 10th anniversary among other events. With highlights including the Urban Art Commission’s fundraiser, Cooper-Young Festival, and a free community day at the Halloran Centre, visitors can enjoy art, music, and family-friendly activities. Meanwhile, the Memphis Pride Festival returns for its 50th anniversary, showcasing local food and entertainment, promising a weekend full of cultural festivities.
Memphis Hosts Celebrations for Community and Culture
This weekend in Memphis, a series of vibrant events will celebrate B.B. King’s 100th birthday and commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Halloran Centre. The festivities promise a blend of art, music, and community engagement, drawing thousands of visitors and residents alike.
Beginning Friday night, the Urban Art Commission (UAC) will launch its annual fundraiser. Attendees can purchase unique art pieces for just $25, with proceeds supporting UACโs various programs. The opening night features performances and dining experiences that will spotlight the local artistic community.
Saturday’s schedule includes a โBrunch and Browse,โ offering a leisurely shopping experience for visitors looking to support local artisans. The day will also mark the Halloran Centreโs decade of service and entertainment in the community, showcasing a cabaret-style musical revue featuring successful alumni of the Orpheum program.
On Sunday, the Halloran Centre will host a free community day that will include live performances, guided tours, workshops, crafts, food, and family-friendly activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy activities at no cost, with free parking available to enhance accessibility to the events.
Concurrent with these celebrations, the Cooper-Young Festival is expected to attract thousands, featuring 445 art and crafts vendors from Memphis and across the United States. Festival-goers will find original artwork, vintage pieces, and unique driftwood clocks. Live music will fill the air on two stages, while children can enjoy the Kidโs Treasure Cove, which is hosted by the Pearls of Grace and includes carnival games, prizes, and face painting.
Additionally, the Memphis Pride Festival will return after its postponement in June due to rain. This year marks the event’s 50th anniversary, promising live entertainment along with a selection of local food trucks serving delicious cuisine.
A free, all-ages music festival will take place on Beale Street on Sunday, specifically to celebrate the iconic B.B. Kingโs centenary. Renowned performers including Eric Gales, Rodd Bland, Mr. Sipp, and Corey Lou & DaVillage Band will take the stage, ensuring a lively atmosphere filled with exhilarating performances. Family-friendly activities will feature the Grizzline Drumline and Beale Street Flippers, along with interactive options like face painting and glitter tattoos.
Moreover, the opening night of the B.B. King celebration will showcase performances from Opera Memphis, providing catered hors d’oeuvres from Chef Eli, and drinks sponsored by Wiseacre. Guests can also participate in craft-making workshops to commemorate the occasion.
In addition to these festivities, TheatreWorks on the Square will celebrate its commitment to independent theater in Memphis with a series of performances and workshops on Saturday, September 6, as they mark 30 years in the industry. This event will feature a variety of acts, including traditional Irish dance, performances from different theater groups, and an evening dance party with DJ Will Ryder.
The weekend promises an exciting mix of cultural festivities designed to engage the local community and celebrate Memphis’s rich artistic heritage, culminating with memorable events of music, art, and family fun.
FAQs
What are the key events happening this weekend in Memphis?
This weekend, Memphis will host celebrations for B.B. King’s 100th birthday, the Halloran Centre’s 10th anniversary, the Cooper-Young Festival, and the Memphis Pride Festival, among other events.
Is there an entry fee for the events?
Most events, such as the Halloran Centre’s community day and the B.B. King music festival, are free to attend, while the UAC fundraiser has art pieces starting at $25.
What activities will be available for families?
Family-friendly activities will include carnival games, face painting, live performances, and craft-making workshops across various events.
Where can I find local arts and crafts?
The Cooper-Young Festival will feature 445 vendors selling original art and crafts from local and national artisans.
What kind of food will be available during the events?
There will be a selection of local food trucks at events like the Memphis Pride Festival and various food options at the Halloran Centre’s community day.
Event Highlights Chart
| Event | Date | Highlights | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAC Fundraiser | Friday | Opening night with performances and art for sale | $25 for art pieces |
| Halloran Centre Community Day | Sunday | Free live performances, tours, and activities | Free |
| Cooper-Young Festival | Saturday | 445 vendors, live music, kids’ activities | Free |
| Memphis Pride Festival | Sunday | 50th anniversary celebration with live entertainment | Free |
| B.B. King Music Festival | Sunday | Free festival with notable performances | Free |
| TheatreWorks on the Square Anniversary | Saturday | 30 years of independent theater with performances | Varies |
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Additional Resources
- TheatreWorks 30th Anniversary Theatre and Arts Festival
- Memphis Flyer: Black Arts and Wine Festival
- OKC FOX: Arts Festival and Marathon Success
- FOX13 Memphis: Bonnaroo Festival Canceled
- Daily Memphian: Glorilla Thrills WNBA All-Stars
- Wikipedia: Music Festivals in the United States
- Google Search: Memphis Arts Festival
- Google Scholar: Arts Festivals in Memphis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Arts Festival
- Google News: Memphis Community Events
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.
