Tom Lee’s Mississippi River Gumption Revival Lantern Parade

Shine bright at the first-ever Tom Lee’s Mississippi River Gumption Revival Lantern Parade!

Gumption—the spark of courage and initiative that carried Tom Lee when he rescued 32 strangers from the Mississippi River 100 years ago. As night fell during his rescue, Tom Lee tied a lantern to his skiff and kept going.

This 901 Day—September 1, 2025—let’s honor his bravery and revive our own at Tom Lee’s Gumption Revival Lantern Parade at Tom Lee Park.

Schedule—Tap into the Mighty:

• 7:00 PM – Meet at Beale Street Landing Rooftop (251 Riverside Drive) with your lantern in hand
• 7:45 PM – Parade steps off! March with the Lucky 7 Brass Band and Chantelle Rytter’s giant lantern puppets with gumption
• After Party – Food, drinks, music and good vibes under the Sunset Canopy

Want to march in the parade? Join a family-friendly or adults-only lantern workshop this August to create your own Tom Lee kerosine, catfish or parasol lantern. Workshops are just $12—materials included.

No lantern? No problem! Come cheer on the parade participants and enjoy the magic from inside Tom Lee Park.

Let’s make this 901 Day one to remember, Memphis!