When to Visit - Arts and Events

Memphis has a tradition of annual musical and historical events and the most significant is undoubtedly May in Memphis. The month-long festival combines the best of established Southern traditions with a celebration of international cultures. Included in the convention is the three-day Beale Street Music Festival, International Week, the World Championship Barbecue Contest and the Great Southern Food Festival. The grand finale comes in the magnificent form of the Sunset Symphony. On the last day of May, 30,000 visitors and locals gather to enjoy a celebration of musical styles, culminating in a spectacular firework display.

Memphis Dining

Here in the "Land of Cotton", the chefs are so proud of their local cuisine they have united to create the "Great Southern Food Festival". A celebration of the food, culture and charm of the South, the event serves to highlight the goodness of Southern food and the hospitality of the region. Big on traditional favorites such as hash browns, muffins, buttermilk pancakes and eggs Benedict, Memphis city restaurants are also famed for their more surprising versatility when it comes to creating salads with a policy of "you say it, we'll do it". International cuisine is also widely available throughout the city.

Memphis Tipping Advice

Service charges are not usually added to restaurant bills so a gratuity of 10 to 20 percent is recommended according to the quality of the food and service received. Valets and doormen would expect a standard tip of one US dollar.