Welcome back to This Week in Memphis! We’re glad you’re here. As we head into the week of August 23–29, 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

USS Memphis Wreck

August 29, 1916

On August 29, 1916, the armored cruiser USS Memphis was caught in massive wind-generated waves while anchored off Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The ship was driven aground on the rocks, resulting in a tragic loss of life.

The disaster killed 43 crew members and injured 204. The incident is remembered for the bravery of the sailors and the devastating impact it had on naval operations and safety protocols.

The USS Memphis name has a somber place in naval history, reminding us of the risks faced by those serving and the need for vigilance in unpredictable conditions. The memory lives on each year, resonating with Memphis pride and national remembrance.

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:

Dinner & Music Cruise

🎨 Date & Time: August 23, 2026, 6:00 PM

📍 Location: Mississippi River

Set sail on a two-hour cruise along the Mississippi River with live blues and jazz plus a full meal. A classic Memphis night out on the water.

Learn more

Sightseeing Cruise

🎨 Date & Time: August 24, 2026, 1:30 PM

📍 Location: Mississippi River

Cruise through Memphis history on a 90-minute Mississippi River boat ride. Listen to live commentary and take in the city views from the water.

Learn more

Baptist Health & Wellness Series: Twilight Yoga and Pilates

🎨 Date & Time: August 24, 2026, 4:30 PM

📍 Location: Memphis

Enjoy a rotating series of Twilight Yoga and Pilates workouts presented by Baptist Memorial Health Care. Refresh mind and body as the sun sets over the city.

Learn more

Baptist Health & Wellness Series: Pilates in the Park

🎨 Date & Time: August 26, 2026, 4:30 PM

📍 Location: Memphis

Join an all-ages, all-levels Pilates pop-up session in the park with Ballet Memphis. A great way to move and connect with the community.

Learn more

Recess Reloaded – Memphis

🎨 Date & Time: August 29, 2026, 10:00 AM

📍 Location: Memphis

Recess is back just for grown-ups. This 21+ field day event features games, DJs, and plenty of activities for a playful Memphis afternoon.

Learn more

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 hello@thisismemphis.co. We’d love to hear from you.

See you next week, Memphis!

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