Memphis in May...can you smell that delicious BBQ??

The summer season is creeping up, so now is the time to get your Southern travel fix before the mosquitos and humidity push all rational folks to seek oceans and breezes, or mountains and streams. 

World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest
Thanks to the many shows on the Food Network, Memphis in May is mostly known for the kick-butt world bbq championship which showcases the country's top sauce-bosses and pit masters. This year's contest will be held the weekend May 17-19th.

Beale Street Music Festival
May 4 - May 6, 2012 at Tom Lee Park in Downtown Memphis

Now in it's 36th year, the Beale Street Music Festival is a weekend long music jam.  The performers this year range from Little Richard to Jane's Addiction.  There are lots of up-and-coming artists too, so you can seem extra cool to friends for having seen the band before it hits Ryan Seacrest's Top 40. Check out the FAQ's of the Festival here.

The "International" Part of the Festival
Each year, Memphis in May brings exciting and alluring exhibits from the honored country to local museums, galleries, and public spaces, providing people of the mid-South with the opportunity to experience international culture first-hand. Exhibits are on display on May 1 - 31 of each year.

This year's honored country is the Philipines. You can experience the culture of the Philipines through attending the gala, performances, exhibits, cinema, culintary events, and speakers. Get all the details of the month's events here.
Ending on a High Note
May 26, 2012
Memphis in May closes a great month with its oldest event - the Sunset Symphony! Enjoy an entire day of family entertainment on the banks of the Mississippi River. Pack a blanket, lawn chairs and a picnic and settle in for a day of music and fun!
The day opens with music from local performers, followed at 6pm by a spectacular air show from the Commemorative Air Force, featuring vintage WWII and concept aircraft such as the Corsair, Hawker, Stearman and Russian Yak. As the sun sets, the stage is set for the smooth sounds of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra performing.