MEMPHIS, Tenn., August 21, 2026. The City of Memphis’ Office of Creative and Cultural Economy today announced 901 Weekend 2026, a multi-day celebration of Memphis culture featuring more than 300 Memphis artists, creatives, performers, and makers across Downtown stages, venues, and activation zones.
The weekend will feature live music, film, fashion, dance, visual art, family-friendly activities, and other cultural experiences, culminating in 901 Day, the annual celebration of everything that makes Memphis home.
“Memphis culture has influenced the world, and 901 Weekend is about celebrating the people who are creating what comes next,” Mayor Paul Young said. “We want Memphians to come Downtown, experience the incredible talent that lives right here in our city, and support the artists, creatives, and businesses that make Memphis unlike anywhere else.”
Friday, Aug. 28: 901 Weekend Kickoff at Trolley Night on South Main
The weekend begins with a special 901 Weekend Kickoff at Trolley Night, produced in partnership with the South Main Association and WellGroove. Programming includes:
Creative Mixer at Halloran Centre, 5-7 p.m.
Kickoff Concert at the National Civil Rights Museum, 7-10 p.m., featuring a curated showcase of Memphis musicians, including DJ Brilli, Lana J, Jad Tariq, Preauxx, Iris Collective, and additional Memphis talent.
Shell on Wheels Stage and creative pop-ups throughout South Main.
The kickoff brings together art, music, and community to launch a full weekend celebrating Memphis culture.
Sunday, Aug. 30: 901 on Beale
On Sunday, Downtown transforms into 901 on Beale, a full-day cultural takeover featuring multiple stages, immersive creative zones, fashion, film, dance, and family activities.
Ida B. Wells Music + More Stage
Featuring Play Your Park, Black Cream, Doll McCoy, John Williams A440 Band, Marcella Simien, Memphis Grizzlies appearances, and a special Headlining Set to close the evening.
The Headlining Set will celebrate the legacy and influence of Memphis music, including an honorary celebration of Tay Keith and a special tribute to Memphis music giant David Porter. Stax Music Academy, KIRBY, and EJ Jones will help honor Porter and the music he helped give the world, with additional special appearances and surprises throughout the set.
The Spark at Handy Park
Showcasing gospel, youth arts, local dance companies, Memphis Grizzlies activations, Da M-Town Band, and performances from groups including Ballet Memphis and Angel Street Ministries.
Fresh Vibes at New Daisy Theatre
Featuring films, behind-the-scenes conversations about music in film, teen programming with Play Your Park, Memphis Jookin showcases, and more.
Rufus Row
Featuring DJs, fashion showcases, including Prep Curry, live demonstrations, and Wing Wars with Carmen Hamilton.
Cre8-N-Motion Zone
A large-scale, family-friendly art and activity zone featuring face painting, interactive art with Urban Art Commission, chalk murals, Ballet on Beale, theater expressions, community sing-alongs, and vehicles from City departments and Memphis cultural institutions.
Across Beale Street and Handy Park, residents will experience Memphis creativity in collaboration with WYXR, iHeartRadio, WLOK, WRBO, and other media partners.
Tuesday, Sept. 1: Citywide 901 Day
While the City of Memphis will not program official events on Sept. 1, 901 Day belongs to the entire city. Restaurants, small businesses, nightlife venues, cultural organizations, and neighborhoods will host celebrations across Memphis.
The Office of Creative and Cultural Economy encourages Memphians to explore the city, support local businesses, and celebrate everything 901.
Investing in Memphis Creatives
Supporting Memphis artists is central to 901 Weekend. This year’s programming will support more than 300 Memphis creatives through performance fees, new audiences, increased visibility, and prominent stages for musicians, dancers, filmmakers, fashion designers, visual artists, and youth arts organizations.
901 Weekend is designed to be safe, accessible, and family-friendly while showcasing the depth and diversity of Memphis culture.
Amplifying Memphis Culture
Featured partners Choose901, iHeartMedia, Memphis Brand, WLOK, WYXR, and WRBO will help amplify Memphis culture throughout 901 Weekend, sharing the sounds, stories, and creative talent of our city with audiences across the region.
Media Contact:
Arlenia Cole, Media Affairs Manager
City of Memphis
Arlenia.Cole@memphistn.gov