Welcome back to This Week in Memphis! We’re glad you’re here. As we head into the week of April 12–19, 2026, we’ve got some fun stories from Memphis history and exciting events lined up. Let’s dive in.
On This Week in Memphis History
Federal Express Begins Operations in Memphis
April 17, 1973
On April 17, 1973, the very first FedEx planes lifted off from Memphis, marking a new era for shipping and for the city itself.
Fourteen aircraft delivered 186 packages to 25 cities across the United States overnight. This bold step built Memphis into a global logistics powerhouse and permanently changed how the world did business.
Today, FedEx remains a Memphis icon and one of the region’s largest employers. You can still feel the pulse of that first night in every plane that lands at MEM.
Also this week in Memphis history:
- 🎂 Al Green — Birthday, April 13. Soul legend, ‘Let’s Stay Together’ icon, and Memphis sound leader.
- Memphis Redbirds First Regular‑Season Game at AutoZone Park — April 14. Redbirds beat the Iowa Cubs 14–3 in their downtown debut (2000).
- Memphis Grizzlies’ First‑Ever Playoff Win — April 17. Grizzlies upset the Spurs in San Antonio (2011).
What’s Happening This Week
Memphis is bursting with energy this week! From historic celebrations to iconic food festivals and open-air concerts, here’s your guide to the best happenings in the 901:
Mimosa Festival Memphis
🎨 Date & Time: April 12, 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Not specified
Raise a glass at this 21+ festival stacked with mimosas, music, delicious food and shopping. It’s the perfect way to toast spring in Memphis.
Tattoo Fest Memphis
🎨 Date & Time: April 12, 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Not specified
Meet talented tattoo artists, explore a packed vendor hall and see live contests. Everything ink and art takes over the 901.
Seussical
🎨 Date & Time: April 12, 6:00 PM
📍 Location: The Circuit Playhouse
Step into a whimsical world with your favorite Dr. Seuss characters at The Circuit Playhouse, perfect for the whole family.
Baptist Health & Wellness Series: Twilight Yoga and Pilates
🎨 Date & Time: April 13, 9:30 PM
📍 Location: Not specified
Free yoga and Pilates session led by Sana Yoga Memphis as part of Baptist’s community wellness series. Great for unwinding and recharging.
Baptist Health & Wellness Series: Zumba
🎨 Date & Time: April 14, 9:30 PM
📍 Location: Not specified
Join KROC Center Memphis and Baptist Memorial Health Care for a free Zumba class. Get active and meet your Memphis neighbors.
Travis Tritt
🎨 Date & Time: April 16, 11:30 PM
📍 Location: Graceland Soundstage
Country icon Travis Tritt brings his chart-topping hits to Graceland Soundstage. Don’t miss this legendary performer live in Memphis.
SHELL DAZE Music Festival – Day 1
🎨 Date & Time: April 17, 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Not specified
Kicking off at Shell, experience music from Old Crow Medicine Show, Molly Tuttle, and The Last Revel for a big start to this two-day music event.
Science of Wine
🎨 Date & Time: April 17, 10:30 PM
📍 Location: Not specified
Sip, savor and support science education at MoSH. The fundraiser features wine and food tastings with local flavor.
Monster Jam
🎨 Date & Time: April 17, 11:00 PM
📍 Location: Not specified
Get your adrenaline fix with giant trucks and thrilling action that packs the stands each year. Fun for all ages.
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