April in Memphis is a time of celebration, bringing vibrant festivals, live music, and delicious drinks together in the heart of the city. Two standout events take center stage in this spring season: the mimosa festival memphis, beale street music festival | mim, 21 apr and the Beale Street Music Festival. These events, which attract thousands of visitors annually, offer unique experiences, from brunch cocktails and mimosas to legendary blues and rock performances on the iconic Beale Street. Here’s a guide to what you can expect from these April events and how to make the most of your time in Memphis.
Mimosa Festival Memphis: A Toast to Spring
Overview The Mimosa Festival in Memphis is a delightful celebration dedicated to brunch’s signature drink, the mimosa. This event is a relatively new but increasingly popular addition to Memphis’ festival scene. Held on April 21, the Mimosa Festival is an open invitation for locals and visitors to indulge in bottomless mimosas, explore brunch-inspired food offerings, and enjoy music in an outdoor, social setting. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere paired with sparkling cocktails and good food.
Venue and Atmosphere The Mimosa Festival is usually held in a spacious, outdoor venue that allows attendees to enjoy Memphis’ spring weather. Past events have taken place in beautiful locations such as the Fourth Bluff Park overlooking the Mississippi River, which provides picturesque views, lush greenery, and enough room to roam freely from vendor to vendor. The setting captures the spirit of a true Southern brunch – leisurely, welcoming, and scenic.
Highlights and Activities mimosa festival memphis, beale street music festival | mim, 21 apr
- Unlimited Mimosas: The main attraction is, of course, the mimosas! With your festival ticket, you can enjoy unlimited mimosas, with creative twists on the traditional mix of champagne and orange juice. Vendors offer variations that include flavors like peach, pineapple, strawberry, and even exotic combinations like lavender and elderflower.
- Brunch Bites and Food Trucks: The Mimosa Festival partners with local eateries and food trucks, ensuring there’s a wide array of brunch-style dishes. From classic favorites like avocado toast and eggs benedict to Memphis-inspired dishes with a Southern twist, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss out on Southern classics like chicken and waffles or spicy shrimp and grits.
- Live Music and Entertainment: Alongside the food and drink, the festival offers live music from local bands and DJs. The music ranges from jazz and R&B to more contemporary hits, creating a perfect background for sipping and socializing. Some years also feature activities like lawn games and photo booths, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Merchandise and Souvenirs: Local vendors offer festival-goers the chance to shop for unique Memphis-themed merchandise, including handcrafted jewelry, artwork, and festival-branded items. These are great keepsakes to remember the event or bring back as gifts.
Tickets and Tips for Attendees Tickets for the Mimosa Festival are typically available online, and early purchases are recommended as the event often sells out quickly. There are generally two ticket options: General Admission, which includes unlimited mimosas and access to food vendors, and VIP Admission, which provides perks such as early entry, a dedicated seating area, and specialty drink options.
Since the festival is outdoors, it’s a good idea to dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunglasses and sunscreen. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair to relax while enjoying their drinks and bites.
Beale Street Music Festival: A Legendary Memphis Event
Overview The Beale Street Music Festival (BSMF), part of Memphis in May International Festival, is an iconic, multi-day music event held on mimosa festival memphis, beale street music festival | mim, 21 apr. As one of the largest music festivals in the country, it attracts artists and audiences from around the world. Scheduled for April, the festival brings together a diverse lineup of musicians, from world-renowned headliners to local Memphis talent. Music lovers can experience blues, rock, hip-hop, indie, country, and more over three thrilling days.
Venue and Atmosphere The Beale Street Music Festival traditionally takes place at Tom Lee Park, a scenic riverside park offering views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline. The park’s size allows for multiple stages, each dedicated to different genres or themes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. The energy here is electric, with thousands of fans gathering to enjoy the music and celebrate Memphis’ rich musical heritage.
Festival Lineup and Artists Beale Street Music Festival’s lineup is legendary and changes annually, bringing an impressive range of artists from various genres. In past years, the lineup has included big names like The Lumineers, Weezer, Cardi B, Post Malone, and Memphis’ own Yo Gotti. The festival often features blues and rock legends alongside contemporary pop, hip-hop, and indie acts, creating an eclectic mix that showcases Memphis’ influence on the music world.
Local acts and emerging artists are also featured, providing an opportunity for festival-goers to discover new music. For Memphis natives and visitors alike, the festival is a celebration of both new and established talent, reinforcing the city’s identity as a music mecca.
Things to Do at Beale Street Music Festival
- Explore Multiple Stages: The festival usually has several stages set up throughout Tom Lee Park, each with its own vibe. Attendees can plan ahead to catch their favorite acts, or simply wander from stage to stage, enjoying a variety of musical experiences.
- Sample Local Cuisine: Memphis’ culinary scene is highlighted at BSMF with food vendors offering everything from BBQ ribs and fried chicken to vegan and vegetarian options. Be sure to try some Memphis-style BBQ, as it’s an essential part of the festival experience.
- Beale Street After Party: After the day’s performances, head to Beale Street for the after-party. Many of the bars, clubs, and live music venues stay open late, giving festival-goers a chance to experience the city’s famous nightlife and enjoy live blues music in its birthplace.
- Art Installations and Vendor Markets: The festival often includes local art installations, photography exhibitions, and vendor markets. Visitors can check out local art and pick up unique memorabilia from Memphis artisans.
Tips for Beale Street Music Festival Attendees
- Plan Ahead for Parking and Transportation: Parking near the festival grounds can be limited, so consider taking a rideshare or shuttle service. Some hotels in the area also provide shuttles to Tom Lee Park.
- Dress Comfortably: Memphis weather in April can vary, so dress in layers and prepare for potential rain. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll likely be on your feet for much of the day.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the festival, especially if it’s warm. The festival grounds usually have water refill stations.
Why April is the Perfect Time to Visit Memphis
April is one of the best months to experience Memphis, as the spring weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the city is buzzing with cultural events. Beyond the Mimosa Festival and Beale Street Music Festival, Memphis hosts other spring events, such as the mimosa festival memphis, beale street music festival | mim, 21 apr and the mimosa festival memphis, beale street music festival | mim, 21 apr. The timing of these events makes it possible to explore the city’s rich musical heritage, taste its famous BBQ, and experience its lively arts scene—all in one trip.
Memphis in April captures the city’s creative and community spirit, welcoming visitors to join in and celebrate its roots in music, cuisine, and culture. The combination of the Mimosa Festival’s laid-back brunch vibes and the high-energy atmosphere of the Beale Street Music Festival offers a memorable experience for everyone.
Conclusion: A Memorable Celebration of Music, Mimosas, and Memphis Culture
The mimosa festival memphis, beale street music festival | mim, 21 apr Street Music Festival showcase the best of Memphis, from its vibrant food and drink culture to its legendary music scene. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, these events offer a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm and creativity that define the city. So mark your calendar for April 21, bring your friends, and get ready to toast to spring in Memphis’ unmistakable style mimosa festival memphis, beale street music festival | mim, 21 apr!