Welcome back to This Week in Memphis! We’re glad you’re here. As we head into the week of August 31–September 6, 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
Piggly Wiggly Opens First Self‑Service Grocery
September 6, 1916
On September 6, 1916, Clarence Saunders opened the first Piggly Wiggly at 79 Jefferson Avenue in downtown Memphis. The city witnessed a retail innovation that would ripple worldwide.
This small store was the world’s very first self‑service grocery. Instead of clerks collecting your goods, customers picked up a basket and browsed the aisles themselves. It changed the way people shopped and made groceries accessible and affordable.
Today, Piggly Wiggly’s concept is standard everywhere. The chain’s pig mascot and quirky name remain Memphis icons—proof the Bluff City is always ready to lead and surprise.
Also this week in Memphis history:
- 🎂 MJG — Birthday, August 31. One-half of 8Ball & MJG; legendary Southern hip-hop duo.
- 🎂 TOM III — Birthday, August 31. The beloved live tiger mascot for the University of Memphis, born in 2008.
- The Peabody (current hotel) Opens — September 1, 1925. Memphis celebrates the reopening of the ‘South’s Grand Hotel.’
- FedExForum Opens — September 6, 2004. New home of the Grizzlies and Tigers debuts in downtown Memphis.
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 30, 2026, 6:00 pm
📍 Location: Mississippi River
Set sail on the mighty Mississippi for a two-hour dinner cruise featuring live blues and jazz. Enjoy fantastic river views and a meal while soaking up classic Memphis music.
Sightseeing Cruise
🎨 Date & Time: August 30, 2026, 1:30 pm
📍 Location: Mississippi River
Take a 90-minute daytime cruise with live historical commentary along the river. A great way to experience Memphis from the water and hear about local legends.
Live at the Garden: Alabama
🎨 Date & Time: September 3, 2026, 8:00 pm (Gates at 5:30 pm)
📍 Location: Memphis Botanic Garden
Catch Alabama with special guest Michael Ray at the beautiful Memphis Botanic Garden. Bring your own beverages and enjoy live country music under the stars.
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