Memphis is turning 207, and you are invited to celebrate the only way Memphis knows how to – with music, culture, food, community, and plenty of hope. Memphis 207th birthday and all things hopeful at the Memphis Hope Festival.
On Friday, May 22, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., join us to take over Tom Lee Park for a free city wide celebration bringing together residents across Shelby County for an afternoon of entertainment, resources, and family activities.
Hosted in collaboration between the Shelby County Government and the City of Memphis, the festival is supported by Commissioner Charlie Caswell, Hope Center, Agape Child and Family Services, and multiple faith-based organizations.
WHAT TO EXPECT!
This festival lineup blends the best that Memphis has to offer, giving attendees multiple options to help meet their needs or to enjoy themselves.
LIVE MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT!
Gospel artist Kevin Davidson and The Voices will headline the evening concert, alongside musical and cultural performances throughout the day. Organizers are also planning a community talent showcase and other youth engagement activities.
THE CELEBRITY BASKETBALL REMATCH RETURNS!
One of last year’s most talked about moments is returning as the City of Memphis and Shelby County Government prepare to set the record straight.
COMMUNITY RESOURCES!
The Memphis Hope Festival aims to connect residents with the resources that can create an impact across our city.
Over 120 different community resources will be available to participants.
– Health and wellness screenings
– Workforce development opportunities
– Expungement clinic services
SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES!
Attendees will have the option to shop with local vendors called the “Hope Marketplace.” The festival will also feature an assortment of food truck options to choose from throughout the afternoon and evening.
A CELEBRATION ROOTED IN MEMPHIS!
Memphis has a rich history, spirit, and unmatched culture. This festival is about uniting our community — through hope, we can create moments that remind us why Memphis is worth celebrating.
EVENT SCHEDULE!
2 p.m. — Opening Ceremony and Welcome from City Leaders
2 p.m. to 5 p.m. — Food Vendors, Cultural Performances, Family Activities, & Community Resources
5 p.m. to 6 p.m. — City of Memphis vs. Shelby County Celebrity Basketball Game
Rematch 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. — Kevin Davidson and The Voices Main Concert
8:05 p.m. — Firework Finale and Closing Celebration
For more information, visit https://memphishopefest.com.
ABOUT THE MEMPHIS HOPE FESTIVAL!
The Memphis Hope Fest aims to establish itself as a signature, recurring citywide celebration that positions Memphis as a “Hope-Centered City.”
“The Memphis Hope Fest is designed to bring residents together around hope, connection, and opportunity by pairing celebration with direct access to resources, services, and community-building experiences,” said Commissioner Charlie Caswell. “This event represents a powerful opportunity to connect people to what they need, highlight pathways forward, and create a visible moment of unity across Memphis.”
Making Memphis into a Hope-Centered City with this transformative event will allow us to change the narrative of a great city and create hopeful outcomes across every measure of community well-being.
It is important that we meet people where they are and connect them to pathways forward.
This blog was written by Shelby County Board of Commissioners
