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As the Seasons Turn on the Memphis Riverfront

There are but a few things that tend to unify our city in such a special way; among those are: the Grizzlies, music, and the Memphis Riverfront. 

First, let’s start with former. The Grizzlies gave it all they had. It was definitely a parade inside our city – yeah! From our watch parties in Fourth Bluff Park, where hundreds gathered in solidarity, to pre-game parties in the plaza, we had a time!

We couldn’t be prouder of how the Grizzlies, once again, brought our city together. Even though it’s all over *sad face* never fear!

This year, Memphis River Parks Partnership has planned even more FREE events for EVERYONE to enjoy on the Memphis riverfront, starting May 1st!

Taijiquan on the River

A man practicing yoga on a rock along the Memphis riverfront.
Taijiquan on the Memphis Riverfront.

Martial Arts on Mondays? Sign us up!

When: Mondays @ 6PM

Just in time for Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we’re inviting you to flow by the river with free weekly 1-hour Tai Chi classes held at the River Garden (51 Riverside Drive). Milan Vigil will lead you as you strengthen your body and mind every week from May through August. All levels are welcome and encouraged to achieve serenity through this ancient Chinese martial arts practice.

Parking is available at P2732/River Garden Lot or at P2721/Shoppers Garage.

Yoga on the River

Yoga enthusiasts practicing on mats in Memphis Riverfront park.
Gather with local yogis on Tuesdays from 6PM-7PM!

When: Tuesdays, 6PM-7PM

This is, by far, one of our most popular events every year. On Tuesdays from May to October, the community is invited to find their inner warrior, for free, in the River Garden. Yoga on the River, sponsored by Downtown Memphis Commission, allows you to get grounded with a beautiful backdrop of the Mississippi River. All levels are encouraged to join us to begin or further their practice.

Parking is available at P2732/River Garden Lot.

Tom Lee Day

A statue of a man in a boat along the Memphis Riverfront.
Tom Lee's legacy lives on.

When: Monday, May 8th

This is the day, designated by the City of Memphis, to remember the heroism and selflessness of our own real American hero, Tom Lee as braved the current of Mississippi to  save 32 people from drowning  after a ship capsized in 1925, though he could not swim.

We will celebrate winners of the 2nd Annual Tom Lee Poetry Contest on May 8th, Tom Lee Day! His courageous spirit lives on in the hearts of those who know and share his story, and in the newly renovated park, that will be a place of gathering, learning, and enlightenment for all who visit.

Three amazing high school students have embodied his spirit in their winning poems, and we can’t wait to his name and legacy.

Sunset Skate Night

A man on roller skates on a playground.
Roll bounce on the Memphis Riverfront

When: Last Thursday of the month from May-September (Rain dates will be the following Thursday)

Need some fun for the entire family? Starting May 25th, Sunset Skate Night is your opportunity to groove and glide down Riverside Drive! Skate rentals are FREE and available on a first-come, first-served basis. DJ Brother John from the Voice of MSCS 88.5 will be spinning on the 1s and 2s. 

NEW this year: Coach Ebony from the Step & Skate Movement will conduct a free DANCE skate lesson from 6PM-7PM, before the all-skate event from 7PM-9PM. 

This event will take place on Riverside Drive, between Court and Jefferson Ave.

Tom Lee Park Grand Opening Day

When: Saturday, September 2nd & Sunday, September 3rd

The new Tom Lee Park will officially open after a Grand Opening Celebration on Labor Day Weekend! This has been two years in the making and we couldn’t be more excited about how this new civic jewel will bring residents and visitors, from all walks of life, together along the Memphis Riverfront. 

Here’s a quick preview of what you can expect to experience upon the official opening:

  • Carlisle Cutbank Bluff – ADA accessible north entrance to the park down the bluff.
  • AutoZone Plaza – featuring misting fountains perfect for Memphis summer days.
  • First Horizon Sunset Deck – take in a beautiful sunset sitting steps away from the Mississippi river.
  • Sunset Canopy named in honor of Tyre Nichols – a community gathering space for concerts, basketball, fitness activities and more.
  • Three sprawling lawns for community activities and enjoyment. 
  • Dedicated fitness area sponsored by Campbell Clinic
  • More than 1,000 trees planted by Valero
  • Food & Drink Pavilions – three amazing vendors will be in park almost year-round.
  • River Play playground – designed by world-renowned playground authority 
  • Buckman Outdoor Classroom – where the eco-learning will never stop.

And so much more! Keep an eye out for details on the Grand Opening and learn about Tom Lee Park 2.0 at tomleepark.org.

There's even more coming to the Memphis Riverfront!

There will be volunteer opportunities (think clean-ups, plantings, etc.) with sign-up through Volunteer Memphis—and,  as always, there will be festivals and music on the riverfront! Follow us @memriverparks on Facebook and Instagram for more information. Be sure to #cometotheriver this spring, summer and fall!

Stay in the know as you #CometotheRiver

GUEST POST BY CANDACE GRAY, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT AT MEMPHIS RIVER PARKS PARTNERSHIP

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