A month-long festival saluting a foreign country each year, hosting the city’s largest events, such as Beale Street Music Festival, World Champion Barbecue Cooking Contest, and the Great American River Run. Memphis in May brings people together by promoting and celebrating the culture of Memphis, the economic growth, and enhancing international awareness through education. These events create memorable experiences like never before and forge a bond with the city. Attracting people worldwide to the City of Memphis, this event has lots to offer.
Along with creating memories and a bond with the City of Memphis, there are also a lot of benefits. For example, these events have over $149 million in economic impact. The event also promotes tourism, improves the quality of life in the area, and helps develop diversity and cultural pluralism. So not only is it a fun month-long event to go to, it is a community-based not-for-profit organization.
Which Country is Being Honored in 2025?
In May of 2025, Memphis in May is saluting to South Korea! They will be highlighting the growing economic partnership between one of Asia’s largest economies and Memphis.
Beale Street Music Festival
Although not being showcased in 2025, the Beale Street Music Festival is a 3-day music festival. It features a wide variety of musical acts and honors the musical heritage of Memphis. This festival attracts millions of people, as well as generates over a billion dollars for the economic impact.
World Champion Barbeque Cooking Contest
Set for May 14th through May 17th, 2025 is the 47th World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest! This 4-day competition is held at Liberty Park in Memphis, TN. Since the first contest in 1978, teams represented the best of barbeque honing their craft as they compete for the title, of “Memphis in May World Champion”, and a share of over $150,000 in prize money.
Great American River Run
Taking place on May 24th, 2025, the Great American River Run begins in downtown Memphis and runs along the Mississippi River. This River Run features the half marathon, the 10k, and the 5k. Tip; sign up early to get the lowest registration of the year. Those who cross the finish line receive a beautiful medal, a race shirt, and an invitation to the famous post-run after-party.
Starting and finishing at AutoZone Park Stadium home, the Half Marathon, GARR 10k, and GARR 5k is all about the experience! You will get to run by some of the historical landmarks, through downtown Memphis, and along the Mississippi River. For more information, email GARR@memphisinmay.org.
International Salute Program
As stated before, in May 2025, Memphis in May salutes South Korea. Building on a partnership spanning around 50 years, the Greater Memphis Chamber leads all the international, economic, and diplomatic activities, including activities for the honored country of the year.
Donate to Memphis in May
If you wish to Donate to Memphis in May, here is what it will look like; your contribution will help to continue decades-long traditions by presenting the most exciting events and shine a spotlight on the city of Memphis in celebration.
To buy tickets or have questions about how to become a team for the Barbeque Contest or even a runner for the River Runs, you can find us at Memphisinmay.org, or reach out via phone; (901) 525-4611, Fax; (901) 525-4686, or email; mim@memphisinmay.org.
Need a Hotel to Stay at?
Are you attending Memphis in May and in need of a hotel to stay at? The Hotel Pontotoc is the one for you! Nestled in the heart of downtown Memphis, you will be located in the middle of all the action. From good restaurants to the Historical Orpheum Theatre to many bars and even to experience the nightlife of Memphis, the Hotel Pontotoc is the perfect hotel to lay back and relax after a long day of exploring the city of Memphis.
A hotel that is rich in history also brings a luxurious ambiance. By offering you the right amount of charm and comfort in our restored rooms and suites. Perfect for the solo travelers, and the couples, with rooms featuring king beds, spacious bathrooms, work desks, kitchenettes, and even complimentary Wi-Fi. Not to mention being pet-friendly too!
Also coming in April of 2025, we bring you our new restaurant and bar, The Dame. For guests and locals, looking for a sophisticated setting, our upscale bar indulges you in our expertly crafted cocktails as well as intimate ambiance and exceptional service. The Dame will promise you a night to remember.
To book your stay, visit our “booking” page. Have any questions or need assistance? Contact us through our “Contact” page or email us at info@hotelpontotoc.com.
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