Welcome back to This Week in Memphis! We’re glad you’re here. As we head into the week of September 14–20, 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
Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium (Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium) Opens
September 16, 1965
On September 16, 1965, Memphis Memorial Stadium opened its gates on the Fairgrounds, marking a new chapter for sports and events in the city.
This venue, now known as Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, quickly became the home for the Liberty Bowl and Memphis Tigers football. It has hosted countless football games, concerts, and citywide celebrations ever since.
The stadium stands today as a centerpiece of Memphis athletics and culture, continuing to bring Memphians together for big moments all year round.
Also this week in Memphis history:
- 🎂 Jaren Jackson Jr. — Birthday, September 15, 2025. Grizzlies All-Star; 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year.
- 🎂 B.B. King — Birthday, September 16, 2025. Blues legend; Beale Street ambassador and namesake of iconic clubs.
- 🐾 TOM III (UofM Tiger Mascot) — Passed away, September 18, 2025. University of Memphis mourns the passing of its live tiger mascot (Year: 2020).
- 🎂 Tyreke Evans — Birthday, September 19, 2025. Memphis Tigers one-and-done star; NBA Rookie of the Year.
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:
90th Shellebration: The Gathering ft. Evvie McKinney
🎨 Date & Time: September 13, 2026, 11:00 am
📍 Location: Overton Park Shell
Kick off the Overton Park Shell’s 90th Shellebration with a community gathering and live performances, including the Tennessee Mass Choir and Evvie McKinney.
United Festival – Cumbia en el Rio
🎨 Date & Time: September 13, 2026, 2:00 pm
📍 Location: Memphis Riverfront
Experience Latin music and culture at this free, family-friendly festival right on the Mississippi River.
Baptist Health & Wellness Series: Twilight Yoga and Pilates
🎨 Date & Time: September 14, 2026, 4:30 pm
📍 Location: Overton Park Shell
Ease into your Monday evening with an outdoor session of yoga and Pilates presented by Baptist Memorial Health Care.
2026 Memphis Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
🎨 Date & Time: September 16, 2026, 4:30 pm
📍 Location: FedExForum
Celebrate the legends of Memphis sports at the annual Hall of Fame reception and induction ceremony.
Orion Financial Free Concert Series: Jackie Venson
🎨 Date & Time: September 17, 2026, 6:00 pm
📍 Location: Overton Park Shell
Austin’s own Jackie Venson brings her electric guitar and soulful vocals to the Shell’s beloved free series.
Live at the Garden: Kool & the Gang and Patti LaBelle
🎨 Date & Time: September 18, 2026, 5:30 pm gates, 8:00 pm show
📍 Location: Memphis Botanic Garden
Enjoy a night of R&B with Kool & the Gang and Patti LaBelle in a one-of-a-kind garden setting. BYOB is permitted.
Orion Financial Free Concert Series: Larry Springfield
🎨 Date & Time: September 19, 2026, 6:00 pm
📍 Location: Overton Park Shell
Groove to the smooth R&B and soul vocals of Larry Springfield at this free community concert.
Between the Lines: A Fall Literary Affair
🎨 Date & Time: September 19, 2026, 11:00 am
📍 Location: Novel Memphis
Celebrate the written word with author meet-and-greets, book signings, and local vendors.
Memphis Medical District Collaborative 10-Year Anniversary Celebration
🎨 Date & Time: September 19, 2026, 5:00 pm
📍 Location: Memphis Medical District
A night of dinner and live music marks a decade of collaboration in Memphis’ Medical District.
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