Welcome back to This Week in Memphis! We’re glad you’re here. As we head into the week of September 8–14, 2025, we’ve got some fun stories from Memphis history and exciting events lined up. Let’s dive in.

On This Week in Memphis History

University of Memphis Opens Its Doors

September 10, 1912

On September 10, 1912, the institution that would become the University of Memphis first welcomed students as West Tennessee State Normal School. This opening marked a key milestone in Memphis’s growth as an educational hub in the Mid-South.

The original campus was established to train teachers and provide higher education for West Tennessee. From its modest beginnings, the institution grew steadily, expanding programs and buildings. In the decades that followed, it evolved—first known as Memphis State College, then Memphis State University, and finally the University of Memphis. Its location at the heart of the city made it a steady force for economic and cultural connection.

Today, the University of Memphis stands as a major public research university, serving over 20,000 students and anchoring the city’s academic community. Its role reaches far beyond Memphis, producing leaders, artists, teachers, and change-makers who shape the region and reflect the city’s spirit of resilience and hope.

Also this week in Memphis history:

• 🎂 Otis Redding — Birthday, September 9, 1941. Stax Records giant with a timeless voice whose music, including ‘Try a Little Tenderness’ and ‘Dock of the Bay,’ endures as a Memphis and global treasure.

What’s Happening This Week

Memphis is bursting with energy this week! From historic celebrations to iconic food festivals and open-air concerts, there’s something unforgettable around every corner. Whether you’re a local searching for weekend plans or a visitor looking to dive into Memphis culture, these picks promise lively crowds, great eats, and sounds that make the city sing. Here’s your guide to the best happenings in the 901:

Cooper-Young Festival

• 🎨 Date & Time: All Weekend Long! September 12th — 15th

• 🎸 Location: Cooper-Young Historic District

The legendary Cooper-Young Festival is back in Midtown! This FREE, family-friendly street festival features over 435 local artisans, food vendors, and groovy live performances in the heart of one of Memphis’s most beloved neighborhoods. Stroll the avenues, shop for handcrafted treasures, snap photos of vibrant murals, and enjoy eats from Memphian favorites. Whether you’re a music lover, food enthusiast, or just want to soak up the city’s creative spirit, this one’s a can’t-miss on the Memphis festival calendar. For details, visit the official Cooper-Young Festival website.

B.B. King 100th Birthday Celebration – Free Outdoor Festival

• 🎶 Date & Time: September 14, 2025, at 11AM

• 🎤 Location: Beale Street

Celebrate the centennial of the King of Blues himself! Head to Beale Street for a free, all-ages music festival honoring B.B. King’s 100th birthday. With live performances, family activities, and an electric downtown atmosphere, this historic occasion invites blues fans from all generations to honor one of Memphis’s most influential legends. Bring your friends, hear Memphis history in every note, and be part of a truly special milestone! Learn more at the Beale Street events calendar.

6th Annual Craft Food & Wine Festival

• 🍷 Date & Time: September 7, 2025, at 5PM

• 🍽️ Location: Brooks Museum of Art

Calling all foodies! The Craft Food & Wine Festival returns for its sixth year, bringing together over 25 of Memphis’s finest food and drink purveyors for an unforgettable tasting experience. Sip on luxurious wine and creative cocktails as you sample artisan bites from local chefs and vendors—all in one scenic downtown venue. This is a 21+ event, so gather your group of culinary explorers and toast to the flavors of Memphis! For tickets and info, check out the Craft Food & Wine Festival site.

Memphis Botanic Garden Food Truck Garden Party

• 🌮 Date & Time: September 10, 2025, at 4PM

• 🌳 Location: Memphis Botanic Garden

Searching for laid-back vibes midweek? Swing by the Memphis Botanic Garden for their Food Truck Garden Party! Enjoy tasty eats from local food trucks, groove to live music, and challenge friends to lawn games—all surrounded by the garden’s gorgeous greenery. Garden admission covers your entry, and pups are welcome too! For more info, visit the Memphis Botanic Garden events page.

Shadow Grass & Lukah (Orion Free Concert Series)

• 🎤 Date & Time: Friday, the 12th and Saturday the 13th @ 7 PM

• 🕺 Location: The Levitt Shell

Who doesn’t love free concerts at the Shell? Friday, we got Shadowgrass, a bank that blends traditional blue grass with jam band energy! If that’s not eneough music for you on Saturday, catch local artist Lukah lighting up the Orion Free Concert Series with his fresh, boundary-pushing sounds. Gather with fellow music lovers, enjoy the sunset, and experience Memphis’s thriving urban music scene—no ticket required! Click here to view the Shell’s event calendar.

Thank you for reading and being part of the Memphis story. This newsletter exists because of you.

If there’s an event we missed, or a Memphis history story or birthday you’d like us to highlight, email us at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you.

See you Next Week, Memphis!

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